Matzah Balls to Communion Wafers is an excellent and intriguing memoir peering into the depths of a woman’s soul torn by worldly and religious culture, family heritage, and anti-semitism, thus revealing a steady quest for knowledge and truth in the light of the love of God. ~ CBM Christian Book Reviews
Gail Baker pens a delightful and life-enriching memoir. Filled with memorable familial insights and battles, Gail Baker relates her common Jewish family, bridging the gap between tradition and faith as a Jewish woman.
Raised as a Jewish girl amongst many Christians, Gail Baker grew up in Columbia, South Carolina. Blending a tenacious personality, humor, and candor, her intelligence and analytical abilities shine throughout the book. A timeline of poignant moments from childhood to adulthood defined and shaped her family, her life and some of her outcomes.
Lovingly speaking of her family roots and history, her story unfolds as a young girl coming of age. Insights and highlights shed light into the beliefs of her Jewish family, the era they lived in and Jewish resolve and unity from her family’s effortless support of humanitarian efforts, to include the establishment of Israel as a nation in 1967.
I found myself not able to put down her memoir. As I read of the turbulent 60’s during her days in college, she reflects back on her upbringing that relates dysfunction on many levels. Despite, Judaism (which played a nominal role in Gail’s young life), she describes a young girl cloistered by the knowledge of anti-semitism and shallow Christianity.
This led to a voracious pursuit of philosophical and theological dictum that bring about understanding of the ideals she has come to know. She shares these perspectives, quotes, scripture verses and insight that gives her book texture and depth. She relates a deep spiritual journey that led to a splendid concession of simply coming to the only One that could bring peace to her soul, Jesus Christ.
With such harmony, she summarizes misconceptions, anxiety, fear, faith and the issues with raising a child that came into difficulty. She also fervently describes her loving pursuit in helping her son, in which her mother’s heart is revealed in such a tender way.
What readers will find is that woven within the tapestry of her book springs forth a deep spiritual conviction to find Truth. This book will move readers deep within their soul, build faith and inspire admiration for God’s chosen people. Her sculpted memoir relates grace and intensity simultaneously. Her story culminates in a wonderful and beautiful love story from a “not-so Kosher Jewish girl that fell in love with Jesus.”
This is an incredibly touching memoir that all will not want to miss!
Matzah Balls to Communion Wafers comes as a highly recommended read for all Christians and Jewish individuals, especially to those that perhaps may be grappling with faith, tradition and religion. Purely enjoyable!
Thank you Gail for sharing your life with us! You may get your copy of Matzah Balls to Communion Wafers at Amazon or at Barnes and Noble.
