Publishing Catalog • 2024
PJ
About PJ Publishing
PJ Publishing creates board books, picture books, chapter books, middle-grade books, and graphic novels in multiple languages that represent the diversity of Jewish families today. By sharing Jewish narratives, values, and life events, we help families explore their connections with Jewish life.
We hope you enjoy perusing this catalog and seeing all the books that PJ Publishing has created. Be sure to check out the sneak peeks of forthcoming books!
PJ Publishing is the in-house imprint of PJ Library ® , a program of the Harold Grinspoon Foundation. PJ Library sends Jewish children’s books and activities to hundreds of thousands of families around the world. This free program is supported by a network of generous donors and partners. For more information and to sign up children ages 0-12 to receive a free Jewish storybook each month, visit pjlibrary.org
On the Cover
Louis is a Shabbat-loving baby bunny whose first — and only — word is “CHALLAH!” Will his parents ever get him to say anything else?
Challah!
Written and illustrated by Varda Livney 6.5” x 6.5”, 18 pages
Age 3
PJ Publishing Books on Amazon
PJ Library’s Amazon store now carries some of your favorite PJ Publishing titles, as well as our popular Haggadah and our new guide to celebrating the Jewish New Year at home. Check it out at amazon.com/pjlibrary
Become a PJ Library Author
Are you an author, author-illustrator, graphic novelist, agent, or publisher who has a Jewish children’s story to share? If so, we want to read it! PJ Library reviews manuscripts year-round and offers financial incentives for accepted works.
Find FAQs, submission guidelines, and more at pjlibrary.org/manuscripts Questions? Email pjlibrary@hgf.org
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First Fruits
Written and illustrated by Amalia Hoffman
8” x 8”, 18 pages
Age 2
It’s time for Shavuot — but wait, what is Shavuot? And what do fruits have to do with it? This vibrant board book celebrates nature’s gifts while teaching young readers about the historical and contemporary practices of this ancient holiday.
Art from First Fruits, written and illustrated by Amalia Hoffman, and Jewish Cats All Year Round, written and illustrated by Varda Livney
Yummy Hamantaschen
Illustrated by Elena Resko
6” x 6”, 10 pages
Age 1
A touch-and-feel book!
This interactive board book encourages young readers to roll the dough, scoop the filling, and pinch the corners of their own hamantaschen — traditional treats for the Jewish holiday of Purim.
An acorn germinates and grows into an oak tree whose birthday is celebrated on the Jewish holiday of Tu B’Shevat. Set to the tune of “I’m a Little Teapot,” above- and below-ground artwork and die-cuts throughout play with the book’s growing concept.
This high-contrast board book describes the first week of the Torah’s creation story with simple text and babyfriendly illustrations.
early June. The holiday commemorates the giving often celebrate it by staying up all night studying the occasion of pilgrimage to the Holy Temple in the Torah, we are instructed to “take the first of it in basket and go to the place that your God endures. Today young children (especially in Israel) and bringing baskets of fruit to school. By the way, fruits with little cheesecake or whipped cream? pjlibrary.org/shavuot Jewish community, the PJ Library Alliance, and the children’s books that reflect the diversity of Jewish activities, visit pjlibrary.org 9 798986 048055 50899> ISBN 979-8-9860480-5-5 $8.99 Hoffman
In the Beginning Written and illustrated by Natalia Emanuel 8” x 8 “, 14 pages Age 0 In the Beginning By Natalia Emanuel Emanuel In the Beginning A high-contrast board book A Note from PJ Library® High-contrast images like the ones in this book are perfect for babies because they’re easy for developing eyes to see. When you read this book, holding it around 8 to 10 inches from your baby’s face is ideal. Reading high-contrast books with little ones will help boost their concentration and focus skills. And of course, reading any book with your baby is an opportunity for a little extra closeness. While babies are drawn to this book’s images, grown-ups will recognize an adaptation of the story of creation in the Torah, the first five books of the Bible (specifically, Genesis 1:1-31 and 2:1-3). The art in this book closely follows the progression in the original story. “In the beginning God created heaven and earth,” the story tells us. God then goes on to create night and day, water and land, the moon and stars, and plants and animals—and of course, people! On the seventh day, God takes a well-deserved rest. Shabbat, the Jewish Sabbath, is time for all of us to take break from the various kinds of creating we take part in during the week. It’s also an opportunity for family time—a day set aside for the simple purpose of reconnecting with our loved ones and ourselves. Perhaps that’s why the last page of this book skips ahead to later in the Bible: “The wolf shall dwell with the lamb” (Isaiah 11:6), a passage that imagines an era of peace. As we wish each other each week: Shabbat shalom (peaceful Sabbath)! To learn more about Shabbat, visit pjlibrary.org/shabbat About PJ Library The gift of PJ Library is made possible by thousands of generous supporters, your Jewish community, the PJ Library Alliance, and the Harold Grinspoon Foundation. PJ Library shares Jewish culture and values through children’s books that reflect the diversity of Jewish customs and practice. To learn more about the program and ways to connect to local activities, visit pjlibrary.org Text and illustration copyright © 2024 Natalia Emanuel Published in 2024 by PJ Publishing, an imprint of the Harold Grinspoon Foundation 0924/B2626/A0 Recommended for children ages months+ Printed in China Grinspoo Th Mar PJ Librar Part py p pies Anon ephe mily mily & Aa shall mily Crow Family anth pies inspoon Marily Foundation Th Murray Sydell Fo 9798989166855 50899> ISBN 979-8-9891668-5-5 $8.99
Jewish Cats All Year Round
and
6.5” x 6.5”, 12 pages Age 0 Includes a mirror! A Note from PJ Library® It’s true: Jewish families observe Jewish holidays all year round. The calendar starts with Rosh Hashanah, the Jewish New Year, and continues with the holidays mentioned in this book: Yom Kippur, Sukkot, Simchat Torah, Hanukkah, Tu B’Shevat, Purim, Passover, and Shavuot. But believe it or not, there are more Jewish holidays than this book can hold including Shabbat, the Jewish Sabbath, which rolls around every week! To learn more, visit pjlibrary.org/holidays Meanwhile, every day is great day to celebrate time with our loved ones, and there’s no better way to do so than to curl up with your little one to read book. Enjoy! About PJ Library The gift of PJ Library is made possible by thousands of generous supporters, your Jewish community, the PJ Library Alliance, and the Harold Grinspoon Foundation. PJ Library shares Jewish culture and values through children’s books that reflect the diversity of Jewish customs and practice. To learn more about the program and ways to connect to local activities, visit pjlibrary.org Livney Jewish Cats All Year Round 9 798986 048093 50999> ISBN 979-8-9860480-9-3 $9.99 Text and illustration copyright © 2023 Varda Livney Published in 2024 by PJ Publishing, an imprint of the Harold Grinspoon Foundation All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, distributed, or transmitted in any form or by any means. First Edition 0824/B2591/A0 Library of Congress Control Number: 2023947615 Designed by Michael Grinley Recommended for children ages 6 months+ Printed in China Manufactured for: Harold Grinspoon Foundation, 67 Hunt Street, Suite 100, Agawam, MA 01001 Jewish cats (and their mouse friends) celebrate Jewish holidays all year long . . . and so can Jewish babies! I’m a Little Acorn Illustrated by Amy Schimler-Safford 6” x 8”, 12 pages Age 1 Lift the flaps! ILLUSTRATED BY A M Y SCHIMLER-SAFFORD I’m a Little Acorn I’m a Little Acorn SCHIMLER-SAFFORD I’m a Little Acorn from PJ Library® B’Shevat is dedicated to honoring trees and everything they provide Tu B’Shevat falls on day 15 tu of the Jewish month of Shevat secular calendar. It traditional to plant a sapling on Tu B’Shevat. family might choose to mark the holiday in other ways planting your home, and of course, reading books about trees. Tu B’Shevat. Just as at Passover seder, symbolic foods are eaten in foods come from trees figs, dates, and carobs, for example. It’s also (or one you haven’t tasted in long time), and to say Shehechiyanu experiencing something new. To learn more about Tu B’Shevat, visit pjlibrary. About PJ Library of generous supporters, your Jewish community, the PJ Library Library shares Jewish culture and values through children’s books practice. To learn more about the program and ways to connect to local Grinspoon Foundation reproduced, distributed, or transmitted in any form or by any means. Agawam, MA 01001 50899>
Written
illustrated by Varda Livney
New and Forthcoming Titles
Board Books Planting Parsley
Illustrated by Constanze v. Kitzing 8” x 8”, 12 pages Age 2 Celebrating the holidays is as easy and fun as One, Two, Three! Written by Naomi Shulman Illustrated by Nora Hilb 8” x 8” 14-16 pages each Age 1 Note from PJ Library® Shabbat, the Jewish Sabbath, is cornerstone of Jewish life. Arriving every Friday evening at sundown and lasting until nightfall on Saturday, Shabbat ers welcome respite from the hustle and bustle of the rest of the week. It traditional to abstain from any kind of work on Shabbat. Instead, families and friends gather together to share meals, convene at synagogue to sing and pray, read, take long naps, and simply take time customary to welcome Shabbat with blessings over candles, wine or grape juice, and bread (which is one who is very small. Whether you bake challah at home or pick one up from the bakery, host dinner for crowd or set table for two, spend time in synagogue or take quiet walk in the woods, the point is always the same: to take little time apart from your everyday routine. has been beloved, restorative practice of the Jewish people for centuries and continues to be so today. As Ahad Ha’am, Jewish essayist and Zionist, famously said, “More than the Jews have kept the Sabbath, the Sabbath has kept the Jews.” About PJ Library gi of PJ Library made possible by many generous supporters, your local Jewish community, and books that re ect the diversity of Jewish customs and practice. To learn more about the program and ways to connect to activities in your area, visit www.pjlibrary.org. Manufactured for: Harold Grinspoon Foundation, 67 Hunt Street, Suite 100, Agawam, MA 01001 One, Two, Three, Shabbat! Shulman/Hilb Library illustrated by Nora Hilb written by Naomi Shulman Note from PJ Library® building (“sukkot” is the plural of “sukkah”), a temporary, three-sided booth that recalls the nomadic dwellings the ancient Israelites lived in during the harvest season. O en beautifully adorned with fruits and vegetables, handmade decorations, and lights, sukkah is wonderful spot for eating, meeting with friends, reading, and singing. Sleeping in the sukkah can be special; covered with (branches or other greenery), the roof sparse enough that those inside the sukkah are able to glimpse the stars at night. child in this story shakes her bundle of willow, myrtle, and palm branches) together with an etrog (a citron) toward the east, west, north, and south, as well as up and down three times in every direction. Observant Jews perform this ritual daily during the holiday of Sukkot (except on Shabbat), and also eat meals of the holiday – the joy of spending time with loved ones outdoors in nature naturally appealing to family members of all ages. Chag Sukkot Sameach (Happy Sukkot)! About PJ Library gi of PJ Library is made possible by many generous supporters, your local Jewish community, and the Harold Grinspoon Foundation. PJ Library shares Jewish culture and values through quality children’s books to activities in your area, visit www.pjlibrary.org. Copyright © 2016 the Harold Grinspoon Foundation All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, distributed, transmitted in any form or by any means. Recommended for children ages months+ Manufactured for: Harold Grinspoon Foundation, 67 Hunt Street, Suite 100, Agawam, MA 01001 One, Two, Three, Sukkot! PJ Library Shulman/Hilb written by Naomi Shulman illustrated by Nora Hilb Sukkot! One Two, Three, Shulman/Hilb One, Two, Three, Tu B’Shevat! Library Written by Naomi Shulman Illustrated by Nora Hilb One, Two, Three, Tu B’Shevat! A Note from PJ Library Trees hold special place in Jewish thought and practice. The Torah (the first five books of the Bible) fitting, then, that Jews celebrate also known as the birthday of the trees or the new year of the trees. The name of the holiday also the date – the 15 stands for 15 in Hebrew) of the Jewish month Shevat which falls around late January to early February. In ancient times, farmers waited until trees were three years old before picking their fruit; the festival of Tu B’Shevat helped them keep track. Today the The family in this book celebrates Tu B’Shevat by planning or ritual meal, that showcases foods we get from trees. They also plant tree, which classic Tu B’Shevat activity in Israel. it’s too cold to plant outdoors where you live, another meaningful way to mark the holiday is to plant something small indoors. about two months later. No matter how you celebrate, remember to hug tree! About PJ Library The gift of PJ Library is made possible by many generous supporters, your local Jewish community, and the Harold Grinspoon Foundation. PJ Library shares Jewish culture and values through quality children’s books that reflect the diversity of Jewish customs and practice. To learn more about the program and ways to connect to activities in your area, visit www.pjlibrary.org. Copyright © 2018 the Harold Grinspoon Foundation All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, distributed, or transmitted in any form or by First Edition 011927.6K1/B1330/A1 Manufactured for: Harold Grinspoon Foundation, 67 Hunt Street, Suite 100, Agawam, MA 01001 My Hands Make the World Written and Illustrated by Amalia Hoffman 8” x 8”, 16 pages Age 2 Havdalah Sky Written by Chris Barash Illustrated by Sarita Rich 8” x 8”, 14 pages Age 1 Shabbat Light Written and illustrated by Samara Q. Klein 8” x 8”, 16 pages Age 1 Glow-in-the-dark cover! By Samara Q. Klein Shabbat Light Shabbat Light Klein A Note from PJ Library Starting at sundown on Friday evening, Shabbat, the Jewish Sabbath, day of peace and rest. When three stars appear in the sky on Saturday night, it’s time for Havdalah (Hebrew for “separation”), marking the end of Shabbat and the start of new week. Notice how this book conveys the time transitions of Shabbat through light and through the form and structure of the book. For example, the sun goes down from above the page and then reappears up from the bottom. The Shabbat candles and the traditional braided Havdalah candle are literally reoriented on the page, just as the shifts to and from Shabbat and normal weekday require reorientation. The nal Havdalah spread incorporates the seam between the pages, underscoring how light marks the separation between Shabbat and the rest of the week. The typography goes up, comes down, disappears, and reappears; and the very word “light” is lit up. Finally, you read this book at bedtime, take look at the cover after lights out! Shabbat and Havdalah are both opportunities to pay attention to the sources of light in our lives, both literal and metaphorical. To learn more pjlibrary.org/shabbat About PJ Library The gift of PJ Library, a family engagement program, is made possible by many generous supporters, your local Jewish community, and the Harold Grinspoon Foundation. PJ Library shares Jewish culture and values through quality children’s books that reflect the diversity of Jewish customs and practice. To learn more and to connect to activities in your area, visit pjlibrary.org Published in 2019 by PJ Publishing, an imprint of the Harold Grinspoon Foundation. Reprinted in 2024. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, distributed, or transmitted in any form or by any means. Recommended for children ages 6 months+ 9 798986 048079 50999 $9.99 Todah Written and illustrated by Kyra Teis 8” x 8”, 28 pages Age 1 Teis t o d ah First published in 2014 by PJ Publishing, an imprint of the Harold Grinspoon Foundation. Reprinted in 2024. Copyright © 2014 the Harold Grinspoon Foundation Illustration copyright © 2014 Mary Hall All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, distributed, or transmitted in any form or by any means. A Note from PJ Library® Saying thank you is an essential life skill. It’s also a staple of Jewish observance, whether we say it in Hebrew (“todah”) or any other language. Many Jewish blessings are prayers of gratitude, including the morning prayer Modeh Ani, which gives thanks for new day, and the Shehecheyanu, which celebrates any new experience. ere are blessings to say when seeing something beautiful in nature, when smelling the rst buds of fruit trees in the spring, and many more. When we say todah, we highlight the Jewish value of hakarat hatov, Hebrew for “noticing the good” and the more we notice all that’s good in the world, the happier we tend to be. To learn more, visit pjlibrary.org/todah Is it possible to be too grateful for the good things in our lives? ancient rabbis didn’t think so. Pirkei Avot (Ethics of Our Ancestors a classic collection of rabbinic wisdom) says, “Who is rich? ose who are happy with what they have.” One way to foster this sense of gratitude is to er thanks for all the blessings in our lives and to teach our children to do the same. Try saying thank you or todah with your child for the many nice things you see each day: “Todah, beautiful tree!” “Todah, yummy breakfast!” “Todah, ngers, toes, and belly button!” Soon your little one may turn and say todah to you – and nothing could make a parent happier than that. About PJ Library gi of PJ Library, a family engagement program, is made possible by many generous supporters, your local Jewish community, and the Harold Grinspoon Foundation. PJ Library shares Jewish culture and values through quality children’s books that re ect the diversity of Jewish customs and practice. To learn more and to connect to activities in your area, visit pjlibrary.org The Shalom Book Written and illustrated by Todd Parr 8” x 8”, 18 pages Age 1 Purim Masquerade Written and illustrated by Samara Q. Klein 8” x 8”, 14 pages Age 2 To learn more about PJ Library, visit www.pjlibrary.org. Copyright © 2017 the Harold Grinspoon Foundation No part of this publication may be reproduced, distributed, or transmitted in any form or by any means. Recommended for children ages months+ Manufactured for: Harold Grinspoon Foundation, 67 Hunt Street, Suite 100, Agawam, MA 01001 by Samara Q. Klein Note from PJ Library® Purim is a joyous holiday that arrives on the 14th day of the Jewish month of Adar which coincides with late winter/early spring. On Purim it is customary to listen to the biblical Book of Esther read aloud in synagogue, put on comic productions of the story of Purim called Purim shpielen (Yiddish for “plays”), and dress up in costume, including wearing masks! is book features masks for the most important characters in the Book King Ahasuerus’s rst queen, Queen Vashti (vash-tee was banished when she refused to parade herself before the king’s friends. King Ahasuerus ah-hash- of Persia o en acted in reaction to those around him; in this sense, he was a somewhat foolish gure. Queen Esther (es-ter was King Ahasuerus’s newly chosen queen; she risked her life by bravely telling the king that Haman was plotting against the Jewish people. King Ahasuerus’s prime minister, was a villain who plotted to harm the Jewish people. -di-khai), Esther’s cousin, saved the king’s life and urged Esther to alert the king to Haman’s Purim Masquerade you can wear masks of all these characters. Just hold the open book up to your face and look through the eye holes. You can also make your own mask and pretend to be whoever you want! Purim Masquerade Purim Masquerade by Samara Q. Klein Foundation, Inc. Stephen and Bebe Saks Family Foundation Susser Family Trust Walter, Arnee, Sarah & Aaron Winshall Zucker Family Foundation Jim Joseph Foundation Genesis Philanthropy Group Anonymous The Micah Foundation Carl & Joann Bianco The Crown Family Marilyn Einstein and Steven Sim Charitable Fund Dr. Steven Grinspoon Howard & Geraldine Polinger Family Foundation Mike So Segal Family Foundation One8 Foundation 9781736557396 50899> ISBN 978-1-7365573-9-6 Happy, Happy
by Bara
Illustrated by Mary Hall 8” x 8”, 18 pages Age 1 Listen Written by Lina Schwarz Illustrated by Patrice Barton 8” x 8”, 18 pages Age 1 Schwarz Barton Listen A Note from PJ Library story, but Baby and Savta (Hebrew for “grandmother”) are perfectly paying attention to simple pleasures an outdoor stroll, a bubbly Taking a moment to pause and acknowledge the sweetness of an important Jewish value, hakarat hatov (Hebrew for “noticing encourages us to say short prayers of thanks for dozens of small things prayers include thanking God for having body that works, food to of opening your eyes to witness a new day. For more ideas about gratitude, visit pjlibrary.org/gratitude. lavishes affection upon her “beautiful,” “clever,” “lovely” grandchild, happiness. The relationship between grandparents and grandJewish tradition of l’dor vador (“from generation to generation”), Grandparents fill a prized role in many cultures, including Judaism, for guide the newest generation in the world. But the most important of course, the deep bond of love. About PJ Library engagement program, is made possible by many generous supcommunity, and the Harold Grinspoon Foundation. PJ Library shares through quality children’s books that reflect the diversity of Jewish more and to connect to activities in your area, visit pjlibrary.org. publication may be reproduced, distributed, or transmitted in any form or by any means. months+ Foundation, 67 Hunt Street, 50899
Written by Pamela Ehrenberg
Written
Bat-Shem
Art from First Fruits
by Amalia Hoffman
Written by Samara Q. Klein
Illustrated by Eliana Q. Bialowas
6” x 8”, 20 pages Age 2
Sign Language Shabbat
Written by Alisa Greenbacher & Jennifer Rosner
Photographs by Shelley Rotner
Illustrations by David Hyde Costello
Age 2
Board Books
Flop
Flip
Hanukkah
Aya Gordon-Noy 8” x 8”, 10 pages Age 3
interactive elements!
Hello! Welcome!
Butcher 6” x 6”, 10 pages Age 2 Lift the flaps! 9 781736 557389 50999> ISBN 978-1-7365573-8-9 $9.99 A Note from PJ Library® One of the oldest and most important Jewish values is something many of us put into practice without even realizing it: hachnasat Hebrew for “welcoming guests.” One of the earliest chapters in the Torah (the first five books of the Bible) describes how Abraham and Sarah, the first patriarch and matriarch of the Jewish people, greeted three travelers in the desert by washing their feet, feeding them delicious feast, and offering them a comfortable place to rest and relax. Little did they know their three mysterious guests were actually angels! To learn more, visit pjlibrary.org/hihellowelcome The child in this story welcomes three guests, too – and just like Abraham and Sarah might have, he greets his visitors with smile and wave and friendly shalom(Hebrew for “hello,” “goodbye,” and “peace,” depending on the context), then makes sure they’re comfortable and feeds them well. Welcoming guests is a mitzvah (Hebrew for “commandment” or good deed), but as we can see in this story, it often makes the host feel just as good as the visitor! As you read this book with little ones, look at the illustrations together, and talk about the different ways everyone is taking care of each other. When we take time to welcome others, we also open the door to parts of ourselves. About PJ Library The gift of PJ Library is made possible by thousands of generous supporters, your Jewish community, the PJ Library Alliance, and the Harold Grinspoon Foundation. PJ Library shares Jewish culture and values through children’s books that reflect the diversity of Jewish customs and practice. To learn more about the program and ways to connect to local activities, visit pjlibrary.org Text copyright © 2021 Harold Grinspoon Foundation Illustration copyright © 2021 Rosie Butcher Published in 2022 by PJ Publishing, an imprint of PJ Library, program the Harold Grinspoon Foundation All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, distributed, transmitted in any form or by any means. Library of Congress Control Number: 2021950013 Recommended for children ages months+ Manufactured for: Harold Grinspoon Foundation, 67 Hunt Street, Suite 100, Agawam, MA 01001 Written by Chris Barash Illustrated by Rosie Butcher Hi,Hello, Welcome Barash/Butcher Hi, Hello, Welcome PJ Publishing My Hanukkah Book of Opposites
Written by Danny Paller Illustrated by
Multiple
Hi!
Written by Chris Barash Illustrated by Rosie
Stein Illustrated
Juliana Perdomo 8” x 8”, 12 pages Age 1
Written by Tammar
by
My Friend, the Apple Tree
Includes see-through window pages! Harvest Blessings
Age 2 Hanukkah with Friends
by Maya Shleifer 8” x 8”, 16 pages Age 2 Includes a fold-out tree! Just Look at You
by
Bat-Shem Illustrated by Jane Massey 8”
Bat–Shem/Massey Just Look At You PJ Librar y expresses that joy – and also Jewish concept that every so caring for our bodies holds that our physical selves valued in Jewish culture. pass down traditions and Jewish tradition is the idea types of good works, both capable, and responsible that job starts the day our other way. your Jewish community, the Jewish culture and values practice. To learn more about the transmitted in any form or by any means. MA 01001 Written by Bara Bat-Shem Illustrated by Jane Massey JUST LOOK AT YOU
Written by Amy Meltzer Illustrated by Amy Schimler-Safford 8” x 8”, 22 pages
Written by Chris Barash Illustrated
Written
Bara
x 8”, 16 pages Age 1 Includes a mirror!
8” x 8”, 18 pages
Greenbacher/Rosner/Rotner/Costello Sign Language Shabbat PJ Library Sign Language Shabbat Written by Alisa Greenbacher & Jennifer Rosner Photographs by Shelley Rotner Illustrations by David Hyde Costello Sign Language Shabbat A Note from PJ Library® Shabbat, the Jewish Sabbath, is joyful, peaceful holiday that arrives every week. From sundown Friday evening till nightfall on Saturday, people around the world take break from the usual obligations of daily living and instead gather to eat, drink, sing, pray, nap, stroll, and enjoy spending time with loved ones. Shabbat is welcome respite from the rigors of everyday life. Many families celebrate Shabbat with special meals at home or with friends. The children in this book are signing words for some of the things people do on Shabbat, such as challah (braided egg bread), wine or grape juice, sing Shabbat songs, and books. No matter how you and your loved ones choose to mark Shabbat, sharing quality time together is the best part. Learn some Shabbat phrases in American Sign Language! To see a video tutorial of the signs demonstrated by the children in this book, visit pjlibrary.org/signlanguageshabbat. Shabbat Shalom (peaceful Shabbat)! With gratitude to the administration, faculty, and students at the American School for the Deaf. About PJ Library The gift of PJ Library is made possible by many generous supporters, your local Jewish community, and the Harold Grinspoon Foundation. PJ Library shares Jewish culture and values through quality children’s books that reflect the diversity of Jewish customs and practice. To learn more about the program and ways to connect to activities in your area, visit www.pjlibrary.org. Copyright © 2017 the Harold Grinspoon Foundation All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, distributed, or transmitted in any form or by any means. 0523/B1201/A2 Designed by Michael Grinley Recommended for children ages 6 months+ Printed in China Manufactured for: Harold Grinspoon Foundation, 67 Hunt Street, Suite 100, Agawam, MA 01001 Harold Grinspoon Mike & So Segal Stephen and Bebe Saks Susser Family Trust Walter, Arnee, Zucker Family Foundation PJ Library Alliance Partners Genesis Philanthropy Group your Jewish community, the PJ Library shares Jewish culture and values through children’s learn more about the program and
Mishpuchah!
Written and illustrated by Barney Saltzberg
8” x 8”, 32 pages
Age 2
Hanukkah at Monica’s
Written and illustrated by Varda Livney
8” x 8”, 32 pages
Age 3
Laila Tov, Moon
Written by Vivian Newman
Illustrated by David Hyde Costello
8” x 8”, 32 pages
Age 4
Fridays Are Special Written by Chris Barash Illustrated by Melissa Iwai 8” x 8”, 24 pages Age 2 Antlers with Candles Written by Chris Barash Illustrated by Melissa Iwai 8” x 8”, 24 pages Age 3 Antlers with Candles written by Chris Barash Barash/Iwai Library illustrated by Melissa Iwai A Note from PJ Library Jewish Concepts F d festiv Hanukkah b ti ake p ll he d Whe po ible ex ended families and clo fr ds, who ti be family oge her appreci tiv of he relig ous freedom as well a of he st who fough o pre it H kkah lls ll band of ish d s, kn he Ma b s, wh fough against a arger m ghtier army ru ed by he Kin Anti hu When he d hey re ed he d Temp n Jerusa em he r umphant Ma b fou d it had b dese d by he A horough cl nin of he Temp it ame time to ligh he ne ta d amp), b here wa b y ough il day Tha he drop il b ed for gh full day is co sidered a Han kkah m racl S H kkah rit include lighting h meno a an e gh -branched ande abrum ting he il ha burned fo gh ghts ith a p ninth cand used o ligh he o hers), eating delici fr ed foods h a po pa s) d sufganiot (j ll do ts) - ls reminiscent of he oil - reciting prayer singin holiday gs d p ayin game Visit pjlibrary n he hist d for he ll-k game ofd de The Candlewick Written by Jennifer Rosner Illustrated by Kristina Swarner 10” x 8”, 24 pages Age 6 By Jennifer Rosner Illustrated by Kristina Swarner A Note from PJ Library Using This Book at Home The Candlewickprovides many wonderful reading moments. Here are several topics you might consider discussing as a family: Ruthie has made some of the gifts she brings for her hosts, while others she has gathered along the way to their home. What makes a gift valuable? Are expensive presents worth more than those that cost only a little? Can homemade gifts be even better than ones that are purchased? deafnes impac he Ruthie comes up with way for Bayla to know when ne is at her do Do ou thin the new g y ch lle Wh c uld or seems o have a hard time ma ng iend bout Bayl and Ruthie and thei friendship! Author Jennifer Rosner and illustrator Kristina Swarner also createdThe Mitten String, another wonderful book about Ruthie and Bayla. About PJ Library The gift of PJ Library is made possible by many sup ters, your y and the Harold Grinspoon Foundation. PJ Library shares Jewish culture and values through quality customs and practice. To learn more about the program and ways to connect to activities in your area, visit ww .pjlibrar .org. R N /S W ER HE AN DLEWIC PJ LIBR R A Note from PJ Library Jewish Concepts Hachnasat Orchim ry dship kindness. The two main characters, Ruthie and Bayla, clearly care for each othe As they live some distance from one anothe Ruthie travels to Bayla home for an extended visit. As hosts, Bayla and her family are taking part in themitzvah (commandment) ofhachnasat orchim,welcoming guests. Just as our a braham a d S welcomed others to their tent, Bayla family welcomes Ruthie into their home and provides her with food, place to sleep, and kindness. Acts of hachnasat orchim show our readiness to treat others as we want to be treated, with respect, thoughtfulness, and a generous spirit. There is another aspect to hachnasat orchim. What about the guest? What should a visitor do to show appreciation for hospitality? Ruthie actions offer some answers to this question. She arrives for her visit with small gifts chosen speciall to please each of her hosts She continue to show consideration y helping with household chores, sp nd g time little aron, a d g yla dips candles these things show Ruthie s gratitude for the way she is treated by her hosts. Things Should Match Written by Sheldon Oberman* Illustrated by Paul Meisel 9” x 11”, 24 pages Age 6 *Originally published in Solomon and the Ant: And Other Jewish Folktales ; reproduced with permission of Boyds Mills Press, Inc. in line with old mark DO NOT PRINT ThingsShould Match OBERMAN ISEL SH Written y Sh ldon Oberman Il t d by Paul M turnmve h d h mi h q h P k A E h Th h h h lo y y h lo h d h y d d p y el - P tt S A Matched Se W mi mi h b h p y p h h h p k g h e e d h n r n mi te b h h d t h Th ngs Should Match { } A N D S ON sk 3 h pl k em) th nin th th ds th gs Play the Matching Game Saturdays Are Special Written by Chris Barash Illustrated by Abigail Marble 8.5” x 9.75”, 24 pages Age 3 Picture Books ¿Dónde está Shmata? Written by Tana Ross Illustrated by Elisa Kleven 8” x 8”, 24 pages Age 3 Lift the flaps! How to Get to Savta’s for Shabbat Written and illustrated by Varda Livney 8” x 8”, 32 pages Age 3 Make and Pack Your Own Backpack! The first thing the child in this story does when it’s time to go to Savta’s is pack up a backpack. Why not pack up your own backpack to go on a pretend trip? You can use a backpack you already have, or make one out of a paper bag. Art supplies (crayons, markers, stickers, etc.) Cut two inch-wide strips off the top of the bag. Decorate the bag however you’d like with your Ask grown-up to help staple the strips to either side of the backpack to create straps. Now fill the backpack with items for your pretend trip! HANDS ON! www.pjlibrary.org Journeying Toward Shabbat An elephant ride, rocket to the moon, cloud travel getting to Savta’s house for Shabbat is one involved journey! This exciting trip is metaphor for getting ready for Shabbat, the Jewish Sabbath. Shabbat is special in and of itself, but when we make efforts to prepare for it — cleaning the house, cooking delicious meals, setting the table beautifully with flowers from the moon (or the local market), dressing up, and inviting family and friends — Shabbat can be even more wonderful. It’s like most things in life: the more you put into something, the more you get out of it. The road to Shabbat may be long and winding, but once sunset arrives on Friday, you can relax; you made it to Savta’s house! To learn more, visit pjlibrary.org/howtogettosavtas In the Zone The 25 hours of Shabbat (from sundown Friday evening to nightfall on Saturday) are a time to experience our lives differently. The 20th-century rabbi and activist Abraham Joshua Heschel wrote, “The seventh day is like palace in time with a kingdom for all. It is not date but an atmosphere.” On Shabbat, it can be as if we open up curtains in dark room and suddenly see everything clearly in the light. The journey to Savta’s house for Shabbat in this book definitely gives a different How to Get to Savta’s for Shabbat Where does Shabbat take you? (continued on back of flap) 50899> $8.99
Retold by Rebecca Sheir
Illustrated by Sabina Hahn
8” x 10”, 48 pages
Age 8
Produced in partnership with Circle Round, a storytelling podcast from WBUR
Written by Naomi Shulman Illustrated by Shelley Couvillion
Written by Pamela Mayer
Never Too Quiet
by Barbara Diamond Goldin* Illustrated by Amanda Hall 8.5” x 11”, 24 pages Age 6 *Originally published in One Hundred and One Read-Aloud Jewish Stories ; reproduced with permission of Black Dog & Leventhal Publishers Written by Barbara Diamond Goldin • Illustrated by Amanda Hall A Note rom PJ Library® wish Concepts Showing hospitality oward guests – in Hebrew hachnasat or him – is an important wish value th oughout the y r, but tak on a unique twist during Sukkot when it is common practice to symbolical y vite ed ancestors into the sukkah to celebrat Collective y these esteemed guests a e known as the Ushpizin om the Aramaic d f “guests ” Some people h e the custom of nviting Abraham on the first night of Sukkot as Rabbi Pinchas did in this sto y Abraham is considered the father of the wish peopl Ma y other eligions also trace their monotheistic spiritual beliefs to Abraham including Islam Christianity Rastafarianism and Baha’i The wish people – including those who conver to udaism – re all considered to be descendants of Abraham and Sarah In many Biblical stories Abraham appears as a righteous man with a commitment to peac compassion and hospitality in others he is depicted as man who would go so far as to lie to s e his wn li Li e us all he is a person with both st engths and weaknesses In this sto y did Rabbi Pinchas’ pr yer bring Abraham into the sukkah? What do you think helps the rabbi find a balance bet “people with their squabbles and their p oblem their oubles and their sorrows – and their laughter and y”? Goldin/Hall NEVER OO QUIET PJ Libra Picture Books How Do Candles Light the Night?
by Renée Andriani 5.5” x 8.5”, 24 pages Age 7 in line with old ma k turnmeover Let The re B e Li g ht When darkness a s even a t ny ght can be very t g Th hy d ght with sa ety peace and hope every h ng good and beaut u The rad onal ew sh symbo o a menorah rit d b ) k th e d L ght k synagogues as spec a p aces too A synagogues have an eterna ght ( n Hebrew a ner tam d) that reca s he menorah o he anc en Temp e connects us with ou past and rem nds us o God eterna presence To earn m re s pjl brary org/howdocandles Li g ht My Fi re Just as gh ma ks the ynagogue as a spec a p ace cand e ight ng marks certa n t mes and events as spec al. As S mmy and Sammy po nt out we gh cand es to e c me h days includ ng Shabbat the e sh Sabba h day- o-day look ng back to he moment o creat on L t th b ght ) d f d t d that repaired and who e once aga n How Do Candles Light the Night? What is light? N W O H H H R The Mouse Who Danced the Hora
Written
Written by Tish Rabe Illustrated
Illustrated by Christine Davenier 8.3” x 11.7”, 24 pages Age 6 Onions and Garlic
THE MOUSE WHO DANCED THE HORA W itten by Pamela M y Illustrated by Ch istine D enier Y D E H M US A H H R R R turn move Do a L tt e Dance y g b d d h d T oe n h boo The or pe ha s h g b h B y b k bb Hebrew or o e v commun t es d c h gh lo g k h y T p brary org mousewhodanc d Tha En e t a in men t s u t ma y a w h wedd ng o t h p h d h t d te h p h d d unn da ce mov s we r ng ma k u g ng y hink g k h p h h h b y h ew ywed Poo T ie wan br ng h d p b h h h h oon pp e es The Mouse Who Danced the Hora How do we nc ude o hers? H A N D S ON Ma ke a Wedd i ng Ca ke Ca rd de and ng he dd ng with a y ece of cak H v fun decorating our ow w dd ng cak w ile so b ng y n eds li Supp e vy ca Ribbon Scissors Glue stick Mar C ou p eces of ca d ock d rent-s ze ang hen g hem her p ng ca r bbon on the rs as decorati e “f osting” Jonah
8.3”,
7
the Trusty Tractor
Written by Tammar Stein Illustrated by Sabina Hahn 6.8” x
32 pages
Age
Yitzi
8”
Age
Until the Blueberries Grow
8.5” x 11”, 24
Age 6 The Sabbath Lion Retold
and Barbara Rush Illustrated by Stephen Fieser 10” x 8”, 32 pages Age 7 THE SABBATH LION A Note from PJ Libra y wish Concepts celebr ted the Sab th kn wn in Heb appea hapter of the st book of the Bi (Genesis) when God ys and In J wish tradition Shab be ins sund y and ends S ening when th be seen in the sk It is customa to begin Sha b b lighting candles then to sanctify the d y with lessing over wine or grape juice and final y to less and special braided ead Some amilies go to synagogue to pra and hear eading om the the st fi e books of the Bib Guests Speaking of guests ys the guest who visits homes eek and has for guest is Queen Sometimes efe ed to as a(b ide) d ting om the 2nd and 3rd centu ies CE od ing night se for egants while th singLecha Dodi to stand y g the capital of Alge ia J ws h v ved in all co ne s of the globe – and ywhe e th y g th ta the customs of Shab a with them. Sch w tz Rush Fieser THE SABB A TH LION ALE in other places such as Iran and and is found in A otanu Sipp u edited 6432 in the Israel Folktale Archi es is illustr ted in a independent eade s and The Shofar Must Go On... Written by Lina Schwarz Illustrated by Yong Chen 11” x 8”, 24 pages W RI TTEN B Y LI NA S CH W A R Z IL L U S T R A TED B Y Y ONG CH E N A Note from PJ Lib y® Jewish Concepts Jewish histo religion and culture place great deal of ocus on human relationships and beh vio The connections honor and the actions k to out those connections gi meaning to our In all relationships what actual do is of uch greater impo tance than the things y In the Jewish ighteous actions are kn mitzvot (the plu al of ah meaning “commandment often “good deed”) positi Judaism is passionate conce ighteous Joshua Heschel a 20th centu theologian who ican Civil Rights m “God asks or the hea and ust spell er te ms of deeds.”This strong expressed through vital to Jewish y mom steps she is doing mitzvah is she commemo ating the occasion of ighteous actions set an example that her com unity appreciates and her son can oll
x 10”, 24 pages
6
Written by Jennifer Wolf Kam Illustrated by Sally Walker
pages
by Howard Schwartz
Ages 9-12 Middle-Grade Books
Detour Ahead
Written by Pamela Ehrenberg
& Tracy LópezIllustrated by Laila Ekboir
5.5” x 8.25”, 352 pages
Scout’s Honor and the Cave of Courage
Written by Anna Levine
5.5” x 8.25”, 140 pages
Ages 9-12
publishing@pjlibrary.org
Art from Jewish Cats All Year Round by Varda Livney