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Leaving Bacon Behind: A How-to Guide to Jewish Conversion
Leaving Bacon Behind provides a comprehensive, easy-to-read guide for conversion that focuses on questions prospective Jews by Choice might have, including "Why should one convert to Judaism?" and "What happens after the conversion?"
This book is a direct result of the questions the author fielded during his time as a moderator in one of the largest Jewish-by-Choice internet communities and his own personal experience as a disabled transsexual Jew by Choice. This includes content discussed in Judaism conversion classes and live courses, as well as questions, comments, and feedback from prospective and successful Jews by Choice. No other book on Jewish conversion has incorporated widescale, peer-reviewed feedback from the target community.
As the author does not fit the stereotype of an able-bodied, middle-class, white heterosexual female converting for marriage, this book includes a section of additional considerations for converting on a budget, if one is LGBT, disabled, or non-white, if one is already married to a non-Jew, or if one already has children.
Leaving Bacon Behind is sure to be a must-read conversion classic.
This book is a direct result of the questions the author fielded during his time as a moderator in one of the largest Jewish-by-Choice internet communities and his own personal experience as a disabled transsexual Jew by Choice. This includes content discussed in Judaism conversion classes and live courses, as well as questions, comments, and feedback from prospective and successful Jews by Choice. No other book on Jewish conversion has incorporated widescale, peer-reviewed feedback from the target community.
As the author does not fit the stereotype of an able-bodied, middle-class, white heterosexual female converting for marriage, this book includes a section of additional considerations for converting on a budget, if one is LGBT, disabled, or non-white, if one is already married to a non-Jew, or if one already has children.
Leaving Bacon Behind is sure to be a must-read conversion classic.
182 pages, Paperback
First published September 12, 2023
4 people are currently reading
8 people want to read
About the author
Melvin S. Marsh
1 book10 followersMelvin S. Marsh is a renowned expert in exploring how humans adapt to challenging environments and situations. With an extensive background in research, education, clinical practice, and disaster response, Melvin has dedicated his professional career to investigating the complex interplay between psychology, medicine, and extreme environments.
Melvin is the founder and CEO of several successful consulting businesses, including M.S. Marsh and Associates and Extreme Environment Psychology and Medicine Consulting. His expertise has been recognized in various fields, from his contributions to scientific research to his outstanding work as a clinician, business leader, and public speaker.
As a published researcher, Melvin has conducted cutting-edge research in psychology and extreme environment psychology, and his work has been published in prestigious journals such as Nature and the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences. His groundbreaking mathematical model, which he co-developed with his advisor, has been instrumental in NASA’s work.
In his clinical practice, Melvin runs one of the highest-ranked medical hypnotherapy practices globally and has received multiple awards for clinical excellence in hypnotherapy. He has also provided crucial support as a disaster response EMT and was recognized for his contributions during the Covid pandemic.
Melvin’s talents extend beyond his academic and medical work. He has also worked in various forms of media, including theater, film, radio, television, and podcasting, and has won numerous local awards for directing and stand-up comedy, though he prefers to stage manage and produce.
Melvin’s extensive background in education includes being recognized for teaching excellence and holding a mastery of evidence-based teaching certificate from Georgia Southern University. He holds a BS degree in Anthropology and Human Biology from Emory University, where he also studied Medieval Renaissance Studies, Theater, and History. He holds a MS degree in Space Studies from the University of North Dakota and a MS in Psychology from Georgia Southern University.
Melvin’s personal life has shaped his perspective and approach to his work. As an only child who grew up in Hollywood, Florida, he draws on his experiences and insights to inform his work. Additionally, as a female-to-male transsexual who transitioned in 2009 and converted to Judaism in 2012, Melvin has a unique perspective on identity, resilience, and adaptation to challenging circumstances.
Melvin is the founder and CEO of several successful consulting businesses, including M.S. Marsh and Associates and Extreme Environment Psychology and Medicine Consulting. His expertise has been recognized in various fields, from his contributions to scientific research to his outstanding work as a clinician, business leader, and public speaker.
As a published researcher, Melvin has conducted cutting-edge research in psychology and extreme environment psychology, and his work has been published in prestigious journals such as Nature and the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences. His groundbreaking mathematical model, which he co-developed with his advisor, has been instrumental in NASA’s work.
In his clinical practice, Melvin runs one of the highest-ranked medical hypnotherapy practices globally and has received multiple awards for clinical excellence in hypnotherapy. He has also provided crucial support as a disaster response EMT and was recognized for his contributions during the Covid pandemic.
Melvin’s talents extend beyond his academic and medical work. He has also worked in various forms of media, including theater, film, radio, television, and podcasting, and has won numerous local awards for directing and stand-up comedy, though he prefers to stage manage and produce.
Melvin’s extensive background in education includes being recognized for teaching excellence and holding a mastery of evidence-based teaching certificate from Georgia Southern University. He holds a BS degree in Anthropology and Human Biology from Emory University, where he also studied Medieval Renaissance Studies, Theater, and History. He holds a MS degree in Space Studies from the University of North Dakota and a MS in Psychology from Georgia Southern University.
Melvin’s personal life has shaped his perspective and approach to his work. As an only child who grew up in Hollywood, Florida, he draws on his experiences and insights to inform his work. Additionally, as a female-to-male transsexual who transitioned in 2009 and converted to Judaism in 2012, Melvin has a unique perspective on identity, resilience, and adaptation to challenging circumstances.
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October 8, 2023I refuse to rate my own book for obvious reasons, but I did want to say why I wrote the book.
Myself and a lot of other JBCs would read other books (like Anita Diamant) and always come back with more questions because they use a lot of words but say very little. I read over a dozen conversion books. It seemed that most books on conversion simply all were middle to upper class, able bodied white women converting (usually but not always) for marriage. I never once read a book written by a man, someone who was disabled, or even by anyone who answered the questions that we had.
For a few years (until the "Jewish by Choice" Facebook group got taken over by a Messianic Jew who removed me and a friend as moderators), I was seeing the same questions appear over and over again. I started making a FAQ which eventually turned into 30+ pages and I joked that if it became any bigger, I would have enough to write a book... and.... I ended up getting more questions. So... here it is!
I hope it helps someone.
Myself and a lot of other JBCs would read other books (like Anita Diamant) and always come back with more questions because they use a lot of words but say very little. I read over a dozen conversion books. It seemed that most books on conversion simply all were middle to upper class, able bodied white women converting (usually but not always) for marriage. I never once read a book written by a man, someone who was disabled, or even by anyone who answered the questions that we had.
For a few years (until the "Jewish by Choice" Facebook group got taken over by a Messianic Jew who removed me and a friend as moderators), I was seeing the same questions appear over and over again. I started making a FAQ which eventually turned into 30+ pages and I joked that if it became any bigger, I would have enough to write a book... and.... I ended up getting more questions. So... here it is!
I hope it helps someone.
October 24, 2023
Leaving Bacon Behind: A How-to Guide to Jewish Conversion by the author Melvin S. Marsh is an innovate guidebook on how to turn into Judaism. What called my attention first is the title of the book since it seems banal compared to the deep and serious topic it deals with. I truly appreciate the author´s insights regarding this topic because he tells us his life story from the perspective of a disabled transexual Jew by choice. Amazing from the beginning to the very end, this installment is a must read for anyone who wants to understand better Jews' beliefs and traditions. The book is very easy to read and to follow. Besides, in the end it has a glossary with many Jewish terms and its meanings. Highly appreciate it!
February 4, 2025
Leaving Bacon Behind, by Melvin S Marsh, is an interesting look into the conversion process for Judaism. The book is part instruction manual and part the author's own conversion story. I found the book to be engaging and compelling. The author’s conversion story is certainly interesting, and most certainly the only LGBTQ convert to Judaism I'm aware of, not like that is saying much. Becoming Jewish seems like a difficult process in many ways; it takes dedication, is a custom in fact, for a Rabbi to reject a potential applicant three times, stemming from an era when conversion was not legal.
I learned quite a bit about Jewish customs and culture by reading the book. I learned not too long ago that I'm part Ashkenazi Jewish, and so reading the book was learning about my own heritage in a way. The writing is engaging in and of itself. The author has a wealth of knowledge and the way he shares it is interesting. I have many times heard the term orthodox as it relates to Judaism, but I didn’t really have any other movements to contrast it with. Now, I do. There are conservative, liberal, reform movements, and more. I found myself wanting to learn more about Judaism the more I read.
Melvin has a good sense of humor as well, as he tells his story, including a few references to one of my favorite musicals, Fiddler on the Roof. The musical also played an important role in the author deciding their Jewish name, which includes Mordecai within it (yes like Uncle Mordecai and musicians! [ok, no there weren’t any Musicians])
I will admit, sometimes all the rules of Judaism cause my mind to spin. The rules get way more specific, but the general idea is you can't engage in acts of creation or destruction on Sabbat. What I didn’t realize until reading this book is that something as mundane as tearing toilet paper off a roll could be considered an act of destruction.
My one initial complaint was there was often a lot of term-dropping in the book. However, after finishing the book, I noticed there is a glossary at the end. So oops, I should have looked at that earlier. Overall I really enjoyed the book and highly recommend it to anyone looking to learn more about Judaism. After reading, I feel like I have a lot more to learn; there are a lot of customs, beliefs, and culture to take in, and reading this book is just dipping your toes in the water.
I learned quite a bit about Jewish customs and culture by reading the book. I learned not too long ago that I'm part Ashkenazi Jewish, and so reading the book was learning about my own heritage in a way. The writing is engaging in and of itself. The author has a wealth of knowledge and the way he shares it is interesting. I have many times heard the term orthodox as it relates to Judaism, but I didn’t really have any other movements to contrast it with. Now, I do. There are conservative, liberal, reform movements, and more. I found myself wanting to learn more about Judaism the more I read.
Melvin has a good sense of humor as well, as he tells his story, including a few references to one of my favorite musicals, Fiddler on the Roof. The musical also played an important role in the author deciding their Jewish name, which includes Mordecai within it (yes like Uncle Mordecai and musicians! [ok, no there weren’t any Musicians])
I will admit, sometimes all the rules of Judaism cause my mind to spin. The rules get way more specific, but the general idea is you can't engage in acts of creation or destruction on Sabbat. What I didn’t realize until reading this book is that something as mundane as tearing toilet paper off a roll could be considered an act of destruction.
My one initial complaint was there was often a lot of term-dropping in the book. However, after finishing the book, I noticed there is a glossary at the end. So oops, I should have looked at that earlier. Overall I really enjoyed the book and highly recommend it to anyone looking to learn more about Judaism. After reading, I feel like I have a lot more to learn; there are a lot of customs, beliefs, and culture to take in, and reading this book is just dipping your toes in the water.
November 26, 2024
"Leaving Bacon Behind: A How-to Guide to Jewish Conversion" by Melvin S. Marsh is a groundbreaking, comprehensive resource that provides a thoughtful and inclusive approach for those considering conversion to Judaism. Written by a disabled transsexual Jew by Choice, Marsh brings a unique perspective to the subject, offering personal insights drawn from his own conversion journey as well as his extensive experience moderating one of the largest Jewish-by-Choice online communities. This dual lens, both personal and communal, makes the book exceptionally rich in real-world advice, making it stand out among other conversion guides. One of the most compelling aspects of Leaving Bacon Behind is its practical, no-nonsense approach to answering the most common questions that prospective converts have, such as "Why should one convert to Judaism?" and "What happens after the conversion?" Marsh addresses these topics with compassion and clarity, giving readers an honest look at the emotional, spiritual, and logistical considerations involved. The book also goes beyond the basics, offering invaluable guidance for those facing unique challenges in their conversion process, including individuals who are LGBT, disabled, non-white, married to a non-Jew, or have children. Marsh's book is informed by feedback from real-life converts, offering peer-reviewed perspectives that further enrich its content. This makes Leaving Bacon Behind not only a practical guide but also a deeply empathetic and inclusive resource for people from diverse backgrounds. Whether someone is new to the process or well into their conversion journey, this book is sure to be a trusted companion, offering clarity, understanding, and support. A must-read for anyone interested in the conversion process.
March 4, 2025
"Leaving Bacon Behind: A How-to Guide to Jewish Conversion" is a truly invaluable resource for anyone embarking on the profound journey of converting to Judaism. Melvin S. Marsh has crafted a book that is not only informative but also deeply compassionate, making it an essential companion for those navigating this transformative process.
What sets this book apart is its comprehensive approach. It doesn't merely skim the surface of conversion; it delves into the intricate details of Jewish theology, rituals, and community life. From understanding the significance of the mikvah to navigating the complexities of Jewish holidays, Marsh provides clear and practical guidance. Furthermore, the book's strength lies in its ability to address the emotional and social aspects of conversion, acknowledging the challenges and uncertainties that potential converts may face.
Marsh's personal experiences as a "Jew by Choice" infuse the book with authenticity and relatability. His empathetic tone creates a sense of understanding and support, making readers feel as though they have a trusted guide by their side. Additionally, the inclusive nature of the book, addressing the concerns of diverse individuals, including those from the LGBTQ+ community and people with disabilities, is a significant positive. The fact that the book has been shaped by feedback from within the jewish by choice community, makes it even more valuable, and relevant.
Whether you're just beginning to explore the possibility of conversion or are already deep into the process, "Leaving Bacon Behind" offers a wealth of knowledge and encouragement. It's a must-read for anyone seeking a deeper understanding of Judaism and a supportive hand on their journey.
What sets this book apart is its comprehensive approach. It doesn't merely skim the surface of conversion; it delves into the intricate details of Jewish theology, rituals, and community life. From understanding the significance of the mikvah to navigating the complexities of Jewish holidays, Marsh provides clear and practical guidance. Furthermore, the book's strength lies in its ability to address the emotional and social aspects of conversion, acknowledging the challenges and uncertainties that potential converts may face.
Marsh's personal experiences as a "Jew by Choice" infuse the book with authenticity and relatability. His empathetic tone creates a sense of understanding and support, making readers feel as though they have a trusted guide by their side. Additionally, the inclusive nature of the book, addressing the concerns of diverse individuals, including those from the LGBTQ+ community and people with disabilities, is a significant positive. The fact that the book has been shaped by feedback from within the jewish by choice community, makes it even more valuable, and relevant.
Whether you're just beginning to explore the possibility of conversion or are already deep into the process, "Leaving Bacon Behind" offers a wealth of knowledge and encouragement. It's a must-read for anyone seeking a deeper understanding of Judaism and a supportive hand on their journey.
August 25, 2024
Leaving Bacon Behind: A How-to Guide to Jewish Conversion by Melvin S. Marsh is exactly what it says it is. It is such a well-written, thorough guide to the who/what/when/where/why of conversion that, by the end, you will not have a single question about what you’re in for if you decide to convert.
The author was fascinating to me. As I recall, he left the Catholic church when 8 years old (enjoying the old testament more than the new), evaluated the religions by age 14, then proceeded to learn about various types of Judaism to find the one that fit him. (With a brief stint in Wicca.)
For me, someone who has always enjoyed the religion he was born into, it initially seemed strange that someone would work so hard only to find a religion that seems primarily focused on following hundreds of rules, e.g. time between eating meat and drinking milk (or different dishes for meat and dairy). But there are a number of mentions of identity and belonging. And the more I thought about it, I admittedly would have missed out on certain things if I didn’t feel comfortable in my organized religion.
At first, I thought the author came off a bit militant during the early parts of his journey, especially when discussing the Christian religion he was born into. This is especially true in light of his discussion of certain types of Judaism that didn’t seem more welcoming than his early description of Catholicism. (I am not a Catholic, and have long encountered many a young person discouraged by it.) But I ultimately appreciated the seriousness in which he takes his beliefs (e.g. "G-d"), as I feel exactly the same way.
The author was fascinating to me. As I recall, he left the Catholic church when 8 years old (enjoying the old testament more than the new), evaluated the religions by age 14, then proceeded to learn about various types of Judaism to find the one that fit him. (With a brief stint in Wicca.)
For me, someone who has always enjoyed the religion he was born into, it initially seemed strange that someone would work so hard only to find a religion that seems primarily focused on following hundreds of rules, e.g. time between eating meat and drinking milk (or different dishes for meat and dairy). But there are a number of mentions of identity and belonging. And the more I thought about it, I admittedly would have missed out on certain things if I didn’t feel comfortable in my organized religion.
At first, I thought the author came off a bit militant during the early parts of his journey, especially when discussing the Christian religion he was born into. This is especially true in light of his discussion of certain types of Judaism that didn’t seem more welcoming than his early description of Catholicism. (I am not a Catholic, and have long encountered many a young person discouraged by it.) But I ultimately appreciated the seriousness in which he takes his beliefs (e.g. "G-d"), as I feel exactly the same way.
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August 22, 2024With the explosive rise in antisemitism worldwide I thought it would be Interesting to read a book about the opposite: how to convert to Judaism. I was also curious as to why somebody would want to enter a religion that is so embedded in ritual that it can take several hours
every day to perform them, according to the writer. And then it was a chance to learn more about a religion that I don't know that much about.
The writer is clearly very compassionate about Judaism and stayed on track even though it took him 17 years to convert. The book is written in an easy-going style, almost like you are having a conversation with the writer. It goes into a lot of detail about rituals and holy days with a lot of good advice if you should want to convert. The writer is very thorough and conscientious, almost obsessed with doing the right thing.
For me there is one strange big black hole in the book: the almost total absence of what the Jewish religion consists of if we look away from the rituals and the holy days. The closest the writer comes to talk
about theology is to declare that the Jewish God is loving while the Christian God is hateful and that Jesus was just a carpenter. It makes me wonder if the writer actually has read The Old Testament, because the
God in there is definitely not always that loving.
But if you are considering converting to Judaism this is a very practical book
every day to perform them, according to the writer. And then it was a chance to learn more about a religion that I don't know that much about.
The writer is clearly very compassionate about Judaism and stayed on track even though it took him 17 years to convert. The book is written in an easy-going style, almost like you are having a conversation with the writer. It goes into a lot of detail about rituals and holy days with a lot of good advice if you should want to convert. The writer is very thorough and conscientious, almost obsessed with doing the right thing.
For me there is one strange big black hole in the book: the almost total absence of what the Jewish religion consists of if we look away from the rituals and the holy days. The closest the writer comes to talk
about theology is to declare that the Jewish God is loving while the Christian God is hateful and that Jesus was just a carpenter. It makes me wonder if the writer actually has read The Old Testament, because the
God in there is definitely not always that loving.
But if you are considering converting to Judaism this is a very practical book
December 13, 2024
"Leaving Bacon Behind" is a poignant memoir that chronicles Melvin S. Marsh's journey converting to Judaism. Mel candidly shares both the joys and challenges of his personal experiences, offering a valuable perspective that every Jewish leader and anyone who cares about Jewish continuity needs to read. This book is a must-read for those seeking to understand the complexities of identity, spirituality, and the human experience.
"Converting to Judaism can be a confusing, intimidating affair. What if everything you needed to know was right in one place?
Leaving Bacon Behind is an easy-to-read, comprehensive guide for conversion that focuses on the questions prospective Jews by Choice are going to have.
What are good reasons to convert to Judaism?
What does converting to Judaism involve?
What is the conversion ceremony like?
What happens after the conversion?
This wide-ranging and in-depth exploration of the entire process goes beyond author Melvin Marsh’s challenging and lengthy ordeal converting to Judaism to provide as much information as possible for any possible set of circumstances you might have. From discrimination from fellow Jews to inappropriate motives for becoming Jewish, everything is on the table for discussion."
"Converting to Judaism can be a confusing, intimidating affair. What if everything you needed to know was right in one place?
Leaving Bacon Behind is an easy-to-read, comprehensive guide for conversion that focuses on the questions prospective Jews by Choice are going to have.
What are good reasons to convert to Judaism?
What does converting to Judaism involve?
What is the conversion ceremony like?
What happens after the conversion?
This wide-ranging and in-depth exploration of the entire process goes beyond author Melvin Marsh’s challenging and lengthy ordeal converting to Judaism to provide as much information as possible for any possible set of circumstances you might have. From discrimination from fellow Jews to inappropriate motives for becoming Jewish, everything is on the table for discussion."
March 19, 2025
Melvin S. Marsh's Leaving Bacon Behind does something that surprisingly few conversion guides manage: it talks to you like you're an actual person—not just a potential convert checking boxes. Marsh's conversational style immediately puts you at ease, making even complicated aspects of Jewish life feel approachable, rather than overwhelming. What's really refreshing is how Marsh addresses the realities of converting as someone who doesn’t neatly fit into a traditional mold. As a disabled transsexual Jew by Choice himself, Marsh genuinely understands how diverse the path to Judaism can be. His personal anecdotes and the extensive community feedback woven throughout give the book an authenticity that's usually missing from typical how-to guides. The sections tailored to converts navigating tight budgets, LGBTQ+ identities, disabilities, or mixed-faith families are particularly thoughtful and reassuring. Overall, this isn't just a guide to Judaism; it's a companion for anyone serious about making an informed, heartfelt journey into Jewish life.
August 22, 2025
Leaving Bacon Behind is an essential and inclusive guide for those considering conversion to Judaism. Written by a disabled transsexual Jew by Choice, this book addresses the unique challenges and questions faced by prospective Jews by Choice. The author draws from personal experiences and a wealth of feedback from a wide-ranging online community to create a comprehensive, easy-to-understand resource.
The book tackles important topics like the motivations for conversion and what happens after, with a special focus on diverse experiences, including those of LGBT individuals, people of color, and those converting on a budget. With a section addressing conversions within non-traditional family structures, it stands out from other books in its inclusivity. This thoughtful and practical guide breaks down barriers and offers a compassionate approach to conversion. Leaving Bacon Behind is a must-read for anyone exploring Judaism or navigating their own conversion journey. If you are looking for next-read choose this.
The book tackles important topics like the motivations for conversion and what happens after, with a special focus on diverse experiences, including those of LGBT individuals, people of color, and those converting on a budget. With a section addressing conversions within non-traditional family structures, it stands out from other books in its inclusivity. This thoughtful and practical guide breaks down barriers and offers a compassionate approach to conversion. Leaving Bacon Behind is a must-read for anyone exploring Judaism or navigating their own conversion journey. If you are looking for next-read choose this.
August 4, 2024
Leaving Bacon Behind: A How-to Guide to Jewish Conversion is a very interesting book, filled with personal anecdotes and information on Jewish history/culture that I hadn’t really known before reading it. For instance, the Minhagim was something I did not know about, as while I knew that you would probably adopt some customs from your spouse and community, I did not know their was a jewish thing for it, along with the stuff about conversions not being accepted by Orthodox, as I didn’t know there were many factions within the Jewish religion. The book was also quick and easy to read, with my only complaint being the title parts as the font looks kind of amateurish compared to the text, but it does pop out so I am guessing that what the author was going for. Maybe it is just because I am reading this on an android that it feels like that, so other readers may have different experiences. Still, kudos to the author!
August 23, 2024
Honest, Accessible, and Thorough
As someone researching Judaism for a project, I found this book very informative.
The author explains the conversion process in an engaging way.
The book starts by looking at why people convert to Judaism and what makes them want to do it. The author states it's important to develop a Jewish identity and suggests ways to integrate Jewish practices into your life. I especially liked the way he blends practical advice with personal stories from his own journey.
The book also covers special topics like converting on a budget, being LGBTQ, living in an area without a Jewish community, having a disability, or converting when your spouse is not Jewish. The author provides advices on these situations.
The appendices, including a glossary and holiday guide, make this book a great reference.
Whether you're personally interested in conversion or just seeking information about Judaism, this book is a good resource.
As someone researching Judaism for a project, I found this book very informative.
The author explains the conversion process in an engaging way.
The book starts by looking at why people convert to Judaism and what makes them want to do it. The author states it's important to develop a Jewish identity and suggests ways to integrate Jewish practices into your life. I especially liked the way he blends practical advice with personal stories from his own journey.
The book also covers special topics like converting on a budget, being LGBTQ, living in an area without a Jewish community, having a disability, or converting when your spouse is not Jewish. The author provides advices on these situations.
The appendices, including a glossary and holiday guide, make this book a great reference.
Whether you're personally interested in conversion or just seeking information about Judaism, this book is a good resource.
January 26, 2025
Although born a Christian, I have always questioned my faith since my teens and explored many religions. But, for whatever reason, Judaism was not one of them. Probably because I considered it a counterpart to Christianity. So it was interesting to read about why a Roman Catholic, of all people, would choose to become a Jew by Choice.
I particularly liked the “Jewish soul” explanation, i.e. that a person who’s attracted to Judaism in this life was most likely a Jew in a past life but has now mistakenly reincarnated as someone who has the “wrong religion.” While never having thoughts of conversion I, much like the author, have also found that I resonate strongly with the Jewish people I’ve met.
This would be a very good book for someone who feels a similar soul connection to Jewish people and Judaism in general, and who’s maybe thinking of going all the way and becoming a Jew by Choice.
I particularly liked the “Jewish soul” explanation, i.e. that a person who’s attracted to Judaism in this life was most likely a Jew in a past life but has now mistakenly reincarnated as someone who has the “wrong religion.” While never having thoughts of conversion I, much like the author, have also found that I resonate strongly with the Jewish people I’ve met.
This would be a very good book for someone who feels a similar soul connection to Jewish people and Judaism in general, and who’s maybe thinking of going all the way and becoming a Jew by Choice.
October 26, 2023
I think “Leaving Bacon Behind” is a unique and valuable resource for any person who may be considering converting to Judaism, particularly for those who may not fit the traditional mold of a Jewish convert. This incredible book addresses a wide range of questions and concerns that prospective Jews by choice might have, making it an inclusive and informative guide. I think that the author's personal experience as a disabled transsexual Jew by choice provides a unique and diverse perspective on the conversion process and believe it can be especially helpful for readers who may not conform to the traditional stereotype of a convert. I really like the fact that the book covers various aspects of the conversion process, including reasons to convert and what happens after the conversion. I highly recommend reading it!
November 25, 2024
I thought this was a fascinating book, incorporating a lot of the nuts and bolts involved not only in converting to Judaism but (for a non-Jew, like myself) a lot of insightful details about Judaism. However, what I like most was that it was NOT written like a textbook or instructional text, but more like a conversation with his own story woven throughout. I appreciated this because it made it very enjoyable to read. I will say that as someone who has only a little working knowledge of Judaism and Hebrew words and phrases, there were some instances when the author used Hebrew words without much context, which left me unsure of what he meant. I ended up going to Google and searching for those words, which were easily translated and aided my comprehension quite a bit. Other than that, I enjoyed this tale which was part memoir, part intro to Judaism.
September 10, 2025
I've been looking into converting for a while, and this book was exactly what I needed. It’s so different from the other books I’ve seen because it actually feels like it was written for real people with real lives. The author's personal story is a big part of why this book works so well; it makes the whole process feel less intimidating and a lot more honest.
The book is clear and easy to follow, breaking down everything from the basic "why convert?" questions to what happens after. The part that really stood out for me was the section on special considerations. It's rare to see a book on this topic that talks about things like being disabled, LGBTQ+, or converting on a budget. It made me feel seen and understood in a way that other resources haven't. This book doesn't just give you the facts; it gives you the confidence and validation you need to start this journey.
The book is clear and easy to follow, breaking down everything from the basic "why convert?" questions to what happens after. The part that really stood out for me was the section on special considerations. It's rare to see a book on this topic that talks about things like being disabled, LGBTQ+, or converting on a budget. It made me feel seen and understood in a way that other resources haven't. This book doesn't just give you the facts; it gives you the confidence and validation you need to start this journey.
October 6, 2025
Coming from a Christian tradition that also respects Kosher laws, it was interesting to read this book about converting to Judaism. I love how non-judgmental the author is, and how he makes everything so clear and simple to understand. This is a book I wish many Christian sects could write, as it gives a down-to-earth approach to the prospect of converting, or simply a guidebook for those looking to know more about Judaism. Marsh breaks all of this down and gives us all the information we need to know. He even challenges you to examine your reasons for converting to Judaism which I find refreshingly honest and real. A much recommended book if you are looking to convert to Jewish faith, or if you'd simply like to know more about it.
October 18, 2023
Melvin Marsh gives an emotional as well as true heart felt experience. He gives you a close up and personal experience. You feel as you are walking through the experience with him. He is a professional in his work, but he honestly opens up about his concerns and questions he had along the way. What he found to be the most extreme struggle and he also gives his positives views and feeling on the convert. Great for a person on the fence not sure if its right for them or not. People will learn a great deal from this book.
November 26, 2025
"Leaving Bacon Behind" fills a genuine gap in Jewish conversion literature by offering the kind of practical, question-driven guidance that prospective converts actually need. Born from real conversations in online Jewish-by-Choice communities and the author's own conversion journey, this book speaks directly to the uncertainties and curiosities that accompany such a profound life decision.
November 2, 2024
A well written and insightful guide on converting to Judaism. Whether you are looking to convert yourself, or just curious about Judaism, it is worth the read.
June 15, 2025
"Leaving Bacon Behind" is one of the most honest and inclusive guides I’ve come across on converting to Judaism. Melvin S. Marsh brings not just practical advice, but personal experience—as a disabled, trans Jew by choice—which adds so much depth and relatability. The book answers real questions people have about the process, like what happens after conversion or how to navigate it on a budget or as someone from the LGBTQ+ community. It’s clear, easy to follow, and full of heart. There’s even a helpful glossary at the end. Whether you're seriously considering conversion or just curious, this is a must-read.
Displaying 1 - 21 of 21 reviews