The Fruit of Her Hands: The Story of Shira of Ashkenaz by Michelle Cameron

 Shira of Ashkenaz is a fictional character. She tells the story of a famous Rabbi Meir ben Baruch of 13th century, “who spent his youth traveling the area of Europe known as Ashkenaz (France/Germany). He settled in Rothenberg, founded a Jewish seminary, and became known throughout Europe for the wisdom of his responsa, letters written in response to Talmudic questions.”

Shira is a daughter of a rabbi, smart and eager to learn the Talmud, Jewish writings. At the age of 19, she is betrothed to one of her father’s students, Meir ben Baruch. As his reputation as a great scholar grows, his family expends as well. When every copy of the Talmud in Paris is confiscated and burned, they seek refuge in Germany.

Overall, this is an interesting story and well-written. However, sometimes the story is more of being told through words rather than being expressed through action. Nevertheless, it is rich in Jewish cultural traditions, making it an interesting read.

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