Book Review

"Into the Heart of Jerusalem" was born out of the author's curiosity.
Arlynn Nellhaus wanted to know, what kind of a city is Jerusalem? What is its spirit? What is it about Jerusalem that makes it unique? What is at Jerusalem's heart?
Heading for a year's stay in the city, she looked everywhere for a book that would answer those questions. All she found was ones that said, "See this," "Walk there." Helpful as these kinds of books are to know one's way around Jerusalem, they didn't satisfy her curiosity. Since she was a writer by profession for the Denver Post, Nellhaus decided that if the book she sought didn't exist, she would write it.
For research, during that year in Jerusalem, she went everywhere, did everything. John Muir Publications brought out the first edition, which travel maven Arthur Frommer called, "The definitive book about Jerusalem." Recently, John Muir has brought out a second, up-dated edition, plentifully supplied with photos of the Golden City by Nellhaus, now a Jerusalem resident.
"Into the Heart of Jerusalem" follows the myriad of religious and commemorative events that tumble through a Jerusalem year. It relates what happens during Jewish life-cycle events. It describes different Jewish, Christian and Moslem houses of worship. Readers get useful advice such as how to eat sunflower seeds without getting their fingers wet and where to find the bell so they can get off the Egged bus. Interspersed are vignettes of Jerusalem life. And, oh, yes, it does include guides, walking tours and descriptions of off-the beaten-path museums.
All described with enthusiasm and humor.