This guide takes a wry look at the perennial suffering that characterizes the human condition. Lionel is forced to give up driving after failing his test at the 5th attempt. Jonathan, as a young folk singer, forgets the words to his latest song and has to leave the stage. Lionel is broadcasting on national radio when he finds that half his script is missing. On another occasion he is befriended by a goat called Emily, only to have it turn nasty when it gets used to being the favourite. In 52 sections, the two rabbis meditate with humour and insight upon particular instances of suffering. They quote extensively from Jewish literature throughout the ages. The book concludes with a collection of prayers. Lionel Blue presents BBC Radio Four's "Thought for the Day" every Monday morning. He has written an autobiography called "Back Door to Heaven" and writes a regular column for the Catholic weekly "The Universe".