Dear Uncle Norman, My usual literary strivings strive for humour, but I compose this letter seriously, assured that you will be able to assist me. Assuming that Uncle Marty has not imparted you with my current status, I shall attempt to explain the whys and whats of a seemingly small, but disturbing problem. Currently, I attend the Catholic University of America, an institution designated to espouse the philosophies of the Church through its many intellectual activities. I find this community enlightening and enjoyable in many aspects; yet, I feel a cultural loss, particularly in the area of philosophy. The fact that all thoughts rebound from Catholicism has exposed the innate urge for me to learn about Judaism, its philosophies, history, ethics, and rituals. Catholic University measures low in Judaic studies, which at once disappoints me; yet, it does not discourage me. Here my problem enters, for I lack a Jewish starting point to begin my inquiry and submission. I would be grateful if you might send me, as the leader of the Jewish intellectual community, the names of a half dozen volumes that would give a somewhat satisfying perspective to understand the religion of my forefathers and to apply this knowledge as I make inevitable comparisons. Surely these six works will enable me to go further and fill this void of the basics. Many thanks for your time and trouble. Sincerely yours, Murray Singerman