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In Two Jews = Three Shuls (Resource Publications), Sandra Tankoos has given us an engaging, fast-paced whodunnit that captures readers from beginning to end. But through careful development of the lead characters and detailed descriptions of the supporting cast, the author — a former synagogue president — has provided a spot-on microcosm of a wealthy, prestigious Jewish community with all its intricacies, meddling and warts. 

The author provided further insight into the book, its background and prevailing themes.

Q: A murder mystery centered around a highbrow Jewish community and congregation where did this idea come from?

A: In the 90’s I was president of a Reform synagogue in Long Island. During that time, a number of people joined who were leaving a neighboring Conservative congregation because they wanted their daughters to be able to have a Bat Mitzvah on Saturday morning, and the Conservative congregation they were leaving would not allow that. I didn’t know that Rabbi, and I certainly didn’t know how he was addressing his congregants. However, this gave me the initial idea for the book. I also left the Conservative movement in the late 60’s for similar reasons. I was active in the Women’s Movement and I wanted to be part of a synagogue that would count me as an equal. 

Q: One of the themes in the book is the traditionalist approach to religion vs. a newer generation with different needs and interests, and a different attitude about women in religion. Explain this concept and how it is central to the plot.

A: The book takes place in the 1990’s during a time period when the role of women in Conservative Congregations was being debated. Conservative Synagogues are much more egalitarian today. However, women’s place within the synagogue is integral to the plot. As the murder is being investigated, many of the congregants are suspects. The diversity of the suspects is meant to add drama and humor to the narrative.

Q: Your cast of characters makes up the perfect stereotype for congregation members in an elite, privileged Jewish neighborhood. Will readers laugh at this, cry at this or both? And will anyone be offended?

A: I have been involved in synagogue life for many years and I am inspired and in awe of those people who work together to create an environment where congregants can find spirituality. The characters I have created are devoted to their synagogue. Since in any synagogue environment there are people from various backgrounds, I have also created characters from different backgrounds. Some bring a sense of solemnity and/or spirituality, and some bring humor. I believe that anyone who has been active in places of worship within any religious institution will be able to identify with the characters in the book. I hope I haven’t offended anybody.

Q: Do you have to be Jewish to enjoy this book?

A: The book is essentially a murder mystery. I think that anyone who enjoys the mystery genre will enjoy this book. The fact that the book is set within a synagogue should not change the basic premise of the book, which is to seek out the clues that will ultimately uncover the murderer.  

Q: What do you hope readers will take away from it?

A: I am by nature a spiritual and religious person. I hope that readers will understand the sincerity of the characters and understand how for them working for the synagogue is a sacred duty, and that women have a right to be treated equally in all environments, including houses of worship. I also tried to add a bit of mysticism into the character of the protagonist. I have had some mystical experiences in my own life that lead me in that direction.

Two Jews = Three Shuls is now available for purchase. Read our review here and learn more about the author on her BookTrib author profile page.

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About Sandra Tankoos:

Sandra Tankoos has been a teacher and a successful entrepreneur. She has served on the boards of several organizations within the Jewish Community. She was Vice President of the Association of Reform Zionists of America and a Vice President of American Zionist Movement. She was President of a synagogue in Long Island and, thus, is familiar with the dynamics at play among congregants with similar objectives but varying opinions on how to achieve their goals. Ms. Tankoos has also been involved in organizations that are concerned with human rights and was a board member of the Commission on Social Action of Reform Judaism for several years. She has always had a desire to write and now, as a senior and a retiree, has written her first novel. She currently lives with her husband in Boca Raton, FL.

BookTrib

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