An impassioned response to the claims of “new atheists” such as Christopher Hitchens and Sam Harris, Why Faith Matters (Harper One, $24.95), by Los Angeles-based Rabbi David Wolpe, offers an unapologetic, yet nuanced, argument for the continuing relevance of religion in the modern world.  Inspired by the role of personal and communal faith in his own battle with lymphoma, Wolpe illuminates the enduring power of belief by taking us to the places where religion meets violence, scholarship, science, and even personal health.  Weaving personal, philosophical, and historical narratives, he creates a convincing argument for the continued influence of reflective, engaged, and compassionate faith.  This is a timely and beautifully written book that is sure to provoke thought among readers from both religious and secular backgrounds.