Marsha Mirkin

The more I read of this book, the less I liked it. That's unfortunate, because Mirkin, a psychotherapist, does have interesting takes on some of the Jewish Bible's female characters (particularly Eve, who emerges here as a symbol of empowerment and growth rather as the temptress who leads Adam astray). But in her attempts to portray all of these women sympathetically, she also glosses over their flaws, tries to explain away familial conflicts and tragedies -- Rachel and Leah, for instance, are presented as loving sisters more than bitter rivals -- and in general comes up with interpretations that too often contradict the plain meaning of the text. There are still some valuable insights, but definitely take these midrashim with a grain of salt.… (mais)