Why Me, God? is the first book of its kind to meld Jewish perspectives about suffering with psychological insights and practical suggestions for coping with it. Indeed, this book may be seen as a traditional Jewish response to Harold Kushner's When Bad Things Happen to Good People.

In Why Me, God? Lisa Aiken, author of the best-selling To Be a Jewish Woman, teaches that according to Jewish doctrine there is meaning in every crisis and tragedy, even if mankind is not responsible for them, and it is often these difficulties and challenges that help us grow the most.

This book begins by describing the purpose of life and the role that suffering plays within it. It also addresses the question "Why do bad things happen to good people and good things happen to bad people?" In the process, it presents Jewish ideas about reward and punishment, the soul, afterlife, and resurrection.

The second part of this book discusses how to cope spiritually, emotionally, and practically with common challenges. Specific chapters address being lonely, poor, infertile, emotionally ill, having handicapped children, being terminally ill, and losing a loved one. Each presents a Jewish perspective as to why these situations occur, how to productively cope with, and grow from, these experiences, and how to provide help and comfort to others experiencing emotional pain or specific challenges.

The last part of the book discusses national suffering and the Holocaust.

Why Me, God? is a comprehensive handbook and coping guide for Jews who want to know what to do and where to turn when tragedy strikes. The reader will learn where a poverty-stricken Jewish family can obtain a free loan, free medical equipment, clothing, and food. This volume also answers such questions as: To whom can an elderly man turn when he needs a ride to visit a sick spouse in the hospital? Where can a Jewish alcoholic find a 12-step program with a Jewish spiritual bent?

Are there Jewish hospices for the terminally ill? Where can parents of a Down's syndrome or multihandicapped child get support and information? How can infertile Jewish couples find a support group or adopt a child?

1. The author lists hundreds of resource organizations and readings for Jews who need help with these and other problems. Why Me, God? can help readers find comfort, meaning, and practical help when they suffer and encourage them to help others to do the same.