This is a complicated time of year for many Jews in our part of the world who can often feel like outsiders whether they decide to participate or not. One American rabbi - who sat on Santa's knee as a child - has penned a detailed look at just how Jews have both marked and helped shape the festive season. Part of it involves Chinese food and a sense of humor.

---

A Kosher Christmas: Rabbi Joshua Plaut

Kyle, the lonely Jewish kid feels left out every year at this time in the animated world of South Park. Many Jews wonder how animated they should be during this season; their relationship with Christmas is complicated.

The lights, the presents and Santa Claus are all unavoidable. And couples in interfaith relationships have all kinds of struggles over what to tell their kids.

Joshua Plaut has examined how Jews have lived with and even embraced Christmas. He is an ordained Rabbi and his new book is called A Kosher Christmas: Tis the Season to be Jewish. And he joined us from New York City.

This segment was produced by The Current's Howard Goldenthal.

Other segments from today's show:

Leonardo and The Last Supper: Ross King

Auschwitz Artist: Dina Babbit (Repeat)