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The Joys of Yiddish

By: Leo Rosten
Binding: Mass Market Paperback
Publisher: Pocket Books (Mm)
ISBN: 067172813X
ISBN-13: 9780671728137
Released: 05 Jan 1991
RRP: £4.55
Average Rating:

Customer Reviews

The Joys of Yiddish by Leo Rosten - By: Mr J Griffiths, 12 Aug 2002
A fair overview of common words & phrases in the (mainly Poilisher dialect of) Yiddish. This book won't teach you to speak Yiddish, but is invaluable in understanding & appreciating Jewish humour, some of which features even in Gentile American comedy. Rosten illustrates the majority of the entries with anecdotes & jokes, most of which are very funny indeed.

One thing though; if it's Hebrew you want to know about, well, it's an entirely different language and, as a hebraist myself, I have to say that some aspects of Rosten's notes on Hebrew are rather troubling. But his Yiddish seems sound, & that is, after alll, what I bought this book to sample. I did so in 1980, & still dip into it on occaision.

Enjoy!

Aleichem (or, dear Ladies, Aleichen) Shalom,

John Griffiths RGN BD(hons.)

hilarious informative book on Yiddish words and Jewishisms - By: , 06 Dec 1999
Whether you want to know the tonal permutations of Oy!, or need a couple of good Jewish jokes for a wedding/ barmitzvah, this is the place to swot up. Leo gives us some insight into the Jewish mentality through its phrases & anecdotes - great for anyone trying to make their way into that world - or for one who's been there for years without knowing their ogerke from their pupik.