Sometimes, the promise of heaven as a balm to the sorrows in this life feels like so much "pie in the sky." It doesn't really help with the very real and present pain I feel here today. This book gives some honest and helpful insights into living with this paradox. I had never approached the topics of grief and loss through Judaism before, and found that interesting as well as deeply meaningful. There is hope yet here on earth; we don't have to wait for heaven to really live, even in the midst of devastation.

I found this book to be very quotable - profound, but in such a relatable way that you can't help but share some of these insights.

Like the author, I have long been troubled by so-called theological "answers" that raise more questions than they satisfy, such as the notion that when bad things happen, it's because God is not really in control. That just doesn't gel with me. And yet, for as long as I have pondered this book's main question - why do bad things happen to good people? - I have not encountered some of the ideas this author asserts, which made them great points for pondering. And you know what? I like them.

I think there were some areas and topics that were sort of glossed by, places where I wish the author would have said more or expounded on himself a bit. I think this would have added depth in some really powerful places, but overall, it's a really good book.

As someone not of the Jewish faith (disclosure: I am a Christian), a few of the theological points were sticky for me, but also non-essential; that is, not worth fighting over. Overwhelmingly, though, since we share a faith background, it was easy to connect to things.

Also, as a geek, I appreciated the footnotes explaining some aspects and persons of Jewish faith and culture in greater detail. ( )

Review of eBook

This book, the author posits, is for the brokenhearted.

It is also for those who wish a deeper understanding, for the despairing who wonder why God did this [thing] or why God allowed this [thing] to happen. Is it our fault? A punishment? Can we know good without evil? Why would God allow tragedy and evil in His world?

For these questions, and many others, the author guides the reader through a series of thoughtful investigations designed to seek out the answers, provide perspective, to comfort the reader. The Judaism theological tenets, used here to provide a framework for the reader seeking to cope with the monumental tragedy of loss, provide much food for thought as this guide shines a light in the darkness of grief.

Highly recommended.

I received a free copy of this book through the LibraryThing Early Readers program and am leaving this review voluntarily. ( )

I appreciated the Rabbi's take on the age old question, "Why do bad things happen to good people?" He works through the various answers given over time, showing how each affects our view of Elohim and/or the people around us, including ourselves. For anyone asking, "Why?" this is a wonderfully easy read and a good place to start your journey. ( )

I appreciated the Rabbi's take on the age old question, "Why do bad things happen to good people?" He works through the various answers given over time, showing how each affects our view of Elohim and/or the people around us, including ourselves. For anyone asking, "Why?" this is a wonderfully easy read and a good place to start your journey. ( )