Encyclopedia of Jewish Humor

From Biblical Times to The Modern Age

Compiled and Edited by Henry D. Spalding, With a Glossary by Dorothy H. Rochmis

Jonathan David Publishers, 1979, hardcover, dustjacket, ISBN 0824600606

Near Fine Condition, book in fine condition with previous owners stamp to front flyleaf, faint stamp to bottom fore edge, dustjacket has shelf and edge wear with small tears to edges (see photographs)

'In this comprehensive encyclopedia, the first of its kind ever published, Mr. Spalding has not only collected that most hilarious anecdotes and stories that have ever been told, but he places them in proper historical perspective.  In 39 exciting chapters, he marches the colorful characters of Jewish folklore through 40 centuries - from biblical times to the atomic age - in a manner that illuminates the highlights of Jewish history, and portrays the vicissitudes of Jewish life in most of the countries where Jews have lived.  Spalding allows 40 centuries of Jewry to speak for itself, not through tears, but laughter; sometimes with a sigh, but mostly in jubilant fashion.'