September 04, 2026 | 22 Elul 5786
“Neshama,” by Marcella Pixley, published by Candlewick Press Written in free verse poetry, this emotional book is about a girl who can see ghosts, including her aunt, who died when she was young. Many important relatable issues are addressed for students in middle grade and above, such as bullying, antisemitism, family estrangements, and forgiveness. Some questions students […]
“Spark” by Chris Baron, published by Feiwel & Friends Brilliantly written in free verse poetry, Spark captures the raw emotion and devastation caused by wildfires, as well as the transformation that hope brings to a community and humanity. Chris Baron is a master storyteller, bringing characters to life layer by layer as if they live […]
“A Teddy Bear for Emily – and President Roosevelt, Too” by Nancy Churnin, illustrated by Bethany Stancliffe, published by Albert Whitman & Company This is a stunning picture book, telling the story of Russian Jewish immigrant, Morris Michtom, who gave his toy elephant to a sad child as they traveled on a boat to America. […]
“The See You Soon Spice Box,” by Pamela Ehrenberg, illustrated by Gabby Grant, published by Kar-Ben Publishing This delightful, joyous picture book shares the special relationship between a great-grandma and her great-grandson, Silas. Over Zoom, they discuss the wonderful things about Shabbat and the special “in-between time” from Shabbat to weekdays – Havdalah. The great-grandma […]
“My Matzah,” by Ann Koffsky, published by Apples & Honey Press Introduce Passover to our youngest children with this bright, engaging, and sweet board book. Toddlers will search for the afikomen high and low, on and under different spaces until it’s found. And then… Munch! Crunch! Enjoy the afikomen! “Let’s Meet Matzah Bakers,” by Tzirel […]
“Max’s Mask: A Purim Story” by Havvah Deevon, illustrated by Itay Bekin, published by Kalaniot Books A touching, brilliant, and beautifully illustrated picture book, connecting the story of Purim to children’s experiences today. It’s never easy to be the new kid at school. Wearing a cape and mask helps Max adjust to his new surroundings. […]
“Twist, Tumble, Triumph: The Story of Champion Gymnast Ágnes Keleti,” by Deborah Bodin Cohen and Kerry Olitzky, illustrated by Martina Peluso, published by Kar-Ben Publishing During World War II, Hungary implemented a law barring Jewish athletes from participating in sports. Gymnast Ágnes Keleti could no longer practice with her teammates. Together with another gymnast, she […]
“The Greatest,” by Veera Hiranandani, Illustrated by Vesper Stamper and published by Random House Studio Spectacular! This gorgeously written and illustrated picture book by the Newbery Honor Award-winning author, Veera Hiranandani, may very well bring tears to your eyes. It shares the special relationship between a grandpa, who sees himself as ordinary, and his grandchildren, […]
“Ping-Pong Shabbat: The True Story of Champion Estee Ackerman,” by Ann Diamont Koffsky, illustrated by Abigail Rajunov, published by Little Bee Books This spectacular picture book will inspire students to hold onto their values. Estee Ackerman loves being Jewish, loves the holy day of Shabbat, and loves ping-pong. When she makes it into the final […]
“An Etrog From Across the Sea,” by Kerry Olitzky and Deborah Bodin Cohen, illustrated by Stacey Dressen McQueen Set in 1729 and inspired by Jewish merchant and trader Luis Moises Gomez, this story follows his travel to Corsica. There, he finds spectacular etrogs. In a letter, he writes that he will bring one home to […]
Loading ...