The writer (Amos Oz) and historian (Fania Oz), father and daughter, travel the pages of Jewish history in search of an answer to the question: why are words so important to Jews? According to them, the words form a living chain that stretches from Abraham to all future generations. Discussing many important topics, including the longevity of Jewish scholarship, time and time, Jewish individualism, women's voices in literature, secular Jewish identity, the authors show that continuity and tradition depend on written words and constant intergenerational dialogue. Skillfully written, full of lyricism and warm humor, this book is intended for the widest range of readers.