Just about all of the essays dwell upon the deep relationship between G-d and the Jewish people, and of the impact that that relationship sustained by the destruction of both Temples and the abrogation of Jewish political sovereignty.

Each essay is followed by a specific meditation themed to that day’s reading,

building a balance of mood and spirit each day. The book’s introduction, ”When Memory Speaks” sets up for the reader a mature and well thought out presentation as to what the three weeks truly have come to represent to our people, throughout two-millennium. The mood and setting is sober lacking the almost fairy-tale style that is common in many other works. There are no collective guilt trips laced with bogus legends to be presented here as historical fact. Truly, this book’s mature presentment is meant to teach and inspire rather than to scare and admonish.

Dr. Brown concludes her opening essay with the following observation:

“Many Jews today, even committed, observant Jews, do not engage in ‘G-d-talk.’ Perhaps these essays will help us along in these conversations.”

And conversations they are, taken together with the OU’s “Koren Mesorat Harav Kinot,” one’s observance of this somber season will truly be informed, intellectually and emotionally enhanced.