The tales in this collection are deeply felt explorations into the Jewish mind and world – stories in the tradition of Isaac Bashevis Singer. At the same time, illuminated by compassion and humor, they transcend cultural boundaries and provide fascinating studies in the universal human experience. Kagan the compulsive gambler, Bluma the old beggar-woman, Hymie the well-to-do arsonist, and Maxie the juggling uncle are but a few of the unforgettable characters brought to vivid life in these pages.