AUBURN – Author Gil Mann will talk about the many ways of being Jewish in 21st century America at 7 p.m. Sunday, May 15, at Temple Shalom, 74 Bradman St.

Mann is the author of “How To Get More Out of Being Jewish, Even if: A. You are not sure you believe in God, B. You think going to synagogue is a waste of time, C. You think keeping kosher is stupid, D. You hated Hebrew school, or E. All of the above!”

Mann’s talk is titled “Sex, God and Christmas: Intimate E-mails About Being Jewish,” which is also the title of a book he is writing. In the talk, Mann will share e-mails he has received from readers of his first book, who are struggling with their Jewish identity.

Many feel that they don’t fit into the traditional definition of what it means to be Jewish, and therefore feel that they don’t fit into the Jewish community.

“Gil describes himself as a Jewish baggage handler,” said Rabbi Hillel Katzir, spiritual leader of Temple Shalom synagogue, which is hosting Mann’s talk.

“I am excited about having him come to speak. We are hoping to attract not just our own members, but Jews who are not affiliated, yet are searching for an authentic Jewish identity for themselves and their families,” Katzir said.

The program is open to everyone, and there is no charge. For more information, people can call Temple Shalom at 786-4201.