Jewish As a Second Language

More about the book

Now bigger, better, and with a completely revised, updated, and expanded second edition, this hilarious field guide to Jewish language and culture is designed to help Gentiles navigate the complexities of being part of a Jewish family. It humorously addresses the misunderstandings that arise, such as when a Jewish mother-in-law insists, "Don't bother driving me, I'll take a cab." This guide teaches readers how to worry, interrupt, and even change hotel rooms in a way that aligns with Jewish customs. It's not just about Yiddish; it delves into the nuances of everyday speech, hidden meanings, and the unspoken rules of behavior. Expect to encounter common obsessive anal questions (OAQs) like "This mole looks okay, doesn't it?" and "Can Saltines go bad?" Discover the Four Basic Shrugs and learn which acronyms to avoid. The book contrasts the activities of non-Jews with Jewish habits—like contra dancing versus reading obituaries. It humorously lists items never found in a Jewish home or mouth, such as Miracle Whip and a Lay-Z-Boy. Prepare to sit, read, and laugh until you're nauseous—it's a delightful read!