Vintage Grain: The Mitzvah of Keeping Yashan (Hardcover)

Haskama from Rabbi Zev Leff: "Dear Friends, I have seen the book "Vintage Grain" by Chasya Katriela Eshkol. The book presents a comprehensive discussion of the prohibition of chodosh - new grain that grows before Pesach and is prohibited until the second day of Pesach. The book explains the prohibition and extensively gives advice on how to identify products that present an issue of chodosh and how to identify products that are yashan and are therefore permissable. Although the prevailing custom is to permit chodosh on grains grown outside of Eretz Yisroel especially in non-Jewish owned fields (as mentioned in the book on page 51) however many opinions prohibit chodosh even in such grain and more and more people are accepting this strigency and are careful to only eat products that are yashon. This book covers the issues involved and presents many interesting facts about the food industry and its history. I found this book informative, interesting and even entertaining. I recommend it not only to those who are stringent concerning yashan, but even to those who do not adhere to this stringency, but should be aware of the issue and be well informed of a Torah mitzvah that at least applies even today in Eretz Yisroel. I pray that Hashem bless the authoress with life and health and commend her for a quality presentation that merits the community. Sincerely, With Torah blessings Rabbi Zev Leff"

Not Preachy; Totally full of great Info: Highly Recommend! “Vintage Grain” has so much wonderful information and totally let’s you decide for yourself if this mitzvah is best for you. Teaches about bugs as well which is an awesome add. It’s a great resource for when people challenge me in why I keep the mitzvah to have all the Torah Sources in one spot and with lots of extra info on it and how to keep yashan Incase the one asking is truly interested. Really glad to own a copy to have as a resource in my bookshelf!! It was an easy read. Not heavy at all and could be really REALLY helpful to someone new at Yashan or the extended family of a BT or the like, as it explains in laymen terms step by step how to use “The Guide” (R Hermann’s Yashan Guide) and tips and tricks for how to beat keep this mitzvah properly. It is not only for one interested in keeping the mitzvah but also just information to allow Jews to be aware of this lesser kept/ lesser known/ lesser talked about mitzvah. Gives people the information they need and if they are interested in trying, has practical questions to ask yourself before taking the leap. I highly recommend this book!!

"Vintage Grain provides a wealth of well-researched information about Yoshon in a format and writing style that makes for a very pleasant read. This reviewer is not capable of writing haskomos but believes the book will leave readers with a better understanding of the halachic factors and ramifications as well as greater comfort in practicing this hanhagah should they so choose. Vintage Grain also includes a fascinating outline of the development of the American kosher industry that many may find quite nostalgic."

"I had the opportunity to read Vintage Grain last week. I found it engaging as well as very clear and understandable. Chasya did a phenomenal job and I learned quite a lot, despite having kept yoshon for years. This work is something everyone can gain from."