The author of this unique volume,Dr. Ronald W. Piesis a psychiatrist with a long-standing inerest in Jewish thought. Readers will surely noteDr. Pies'sefforts to connect the teachings found withinPirkei Avotwith the larger fabric of psychology, philosophy, and literature. WhilePirkei Avotis a unique and specific expression of Judaic values, it is nevertheless true that the world's great religions often resonate with the values found within them. In some instances, this may reflect a direct historical/cultural interaction; in other cases, it reflects what may be called "convergent evolution." In any case, as the author writes, "Many values articulated in the world's major faiths are seen to mirror those embraced inPirkei Avot.