The Essential Survival Manual for Growing Up Jewish!

What does it mean to become a Jewish woman?

Did you ever think that Judaism had any advice on how to deal with pressure from your friends? Arguing with your parents? Feeling stressed out? Well, this book shows you that Judaism can help you deal with all these things-and a whole lot more.

The JGirl's Guide is a first-of-its-kind book of practical, real-world advice using Judaism as a compass for the journey through adolescence. A fun survival guide for coming of age, it explores the wisdom and experiences of rabbis, athletes, writers, scholars, musicians and great Jewish thinkers, as well as lots of girls just like you-girls who share your worries and concerns, and your joys.

Here's a place to turn to for honest, helpful discussion about the things that really matter to you:

. Friendship . Eating . Health . Sexuality . Getting involved . Dealing with authority . Coping with stress . Self-esteem . Communication . Jewish Identity

Now's the time when you are thinking: Who am I? What do I believe in? Who will I become? The JGirl's Guide provides Jewish writings, traditions and advice that can help.

Penina Adelman is the author of Miriam's Well: Rituals for Jewish Women Around the Year and The Bible from Alef to Tav, which was a finalist for the National Jewish Book Award. Her most recent book is Praise Her Works: Conversations with Biblical Women. She is a social worker specializing in group work and she leads pre-bat mitzvah and mother/daughter groups.

PREFACE
ACKNOWLEDGMENTS

INTRODUCTION: I'm a Jewish girl and so I'll become a Jewish woman-is there any more to it than that?

1. BEING A FRIEND: I love my friends, but it's hard to be a really good friend.
2. BEING A DAUGHTER: I love my parents, but do I need to honor them, too?
3. EATING: I like to eat, but I think about food a lot.
4. RESTING: I like to be active, but I am really stressed!
5. FEELING GOOD ABOUT MY BODY: I feel healthy most of the time, but sometimes I don't take care of myself.
6. LIKING MYSELF: I want to fit in, but I want to be true to myself.
7. BECOMING A WOMAN: I am curious about sexuality, but I am scared about it, too. 8. THINKING BEFORE I SPEAK: I need to say what I feel and think, but I may be hurting people when I do.
9. GETTING INVOLVED: I want to make the world a better place, but there are just too many problems.
10. BECOMING MYSELF: I am Jewish, but is this how I want to identify myself?

GLOSSARY
ABOUT THE JEWISH RELIGIOUS MOVEMENTS
FOR MORE INFORMATION ...
NOTES