ALMOST A MINYAN by LORI S. KLINE

Why did you write this book? The transmission of Jewish traditions and practices is critical to me, as I believe it bonds our families, one generation to the next, and keeps our Jewish religion both intact and evolving to meet modern day realities. I have always loved engaging with kids as early in life as the toddler years, to instill a love for Judaism through fun with the prayers, stories and song. I firmly believe that the love they develop as youngsters will steer them into loving Judaism as they grow.

What was your life like growing up as a female in the Jewish community?

Wow—I grew-up in a very different time with respect to female involvement in the Jewish community. I didn’t harbor any resentment—I accepted my role as “just the way it is.” I loved the Hebrew language, gathering and singing the prayers, celebrating holiday and the weekly Friday night dinners at home with family and friends, and having leadership roles in our, “Jr. Synagogue” services and Youth Group activities. I never questioned that only males had a place on the bimah (stage), could touch or read from the Torah, and/or lead services. I was content to light the candles Friday night and pray from the congregational seats on “Shabbos” (the Sabbath). During my high school years, I attended Camp Ramah in Canada, where I learned to chant from the Torah and when I moved to Austin for college, I learned to lead services. At first, these practices felt very odd—almost heretical. Now they are part of my, “just the way it is,” Jewish lifestyle.

What are some day jobs that you have held?  Have any of them impacted your writing? 

During high school, I worked as a United Synagogue Youth adviser for middle school children. I saw children who were connected, and those who were not connected, to their Jewish heritage, and it struck me that many were missing a link to previous generations in their families.  Almost a Minyan allowed me to espouse the importance I place on the transmission of Jewish tradition through family relationships.   As an adult, I worked as a Speech Language Pathologist for over 20 years.  The protagonist in my previous book was a child with strong characteristics of Attention Deficit Disorder and over the years I worked with many such children, who shared stories of their struggles and their comical moments related to this difficult issue.

What do you think most characterizes your writing?

My first book, Josiah’s Dreams, is a whimsical tale of a day-dreamer.  This book, Almost a Minyan, is more a coming-of-age, educational book.  I would say that fun with rhyme and playful language dealing with serious issues characterize both books.

What is your favorite quote?

Either, “It’s a small world, but I wouldn’t want to paint it,” by Steven Wright or, “You are endless potential,” author unknown.

What’s your funniest flaw?

I frequently walk into the corners at turns throughout the interior of my home.  Of course I blame my husband for frequently moving the walls.