Seder Moed: Taanis, Megillah, Moed Katan, Chagigah Book

Incredible wealth of information that I feel is crucial for anyone seriously studying Talmud to be aware of. I feel that this book should be taught in Yeshiva's before or along with gemara learning.

The first few chapters catalogs who instituted which laws we follow today. For example did you know that Moshe instituted/regulated the sheva brachas after a wedding and the seven days of mourning. He also established the first blessing in Bircas Hamozen. Joshua created Aleinu Leshabaiach. King Solomon instituted washing hands before meals. It goes on to list many practices and mitzvos that we do today listing who originated them. Many fascinating details around the lives of the Tanoim and Amorim as well as the Rishonim and Achronim.

The second half of the book is more of a studious nature with many rules and details regarding what different word usage in the gemara imply along with when there are disputes who we follow and what exceptions apply. This part is more useful used as a reference volume than as a straight read. I would think its a crucial companion to have next to you when you study serious Talmud.

Overall, incredibly informative and useful addition to any Talmudic library.