3 minute read
Meet the Cohen family
PJ Library Family Spotlight
By Alicia Feldman, PJ Library Coordinator
Q: Tell me about the Cohen family. A: We are Kyle and Rachel Cohen. We have two children, Eli (10) and Sarah (7).
Q: Are you involved in the Jewish community in Naples?
A: As a couple, we have lived in the Southwest Florida area for about 14 years. However, Temple Shalom played an important role in our lives well before then. Rachel grew up in Naples and has been a member of Temple Shalom since middle school.
Kyle’s family came to Naples when his mother, Lori, took the position of executive director at Temple Shalom. In fact, we were married at Temple Shalom before relocating to the area. Now, it is a big part of our life. Kyle serves on the board and both our kids attend Religious School (YeSH). We are also part of an active Chavurah.
Rachel and Kyle Cohen with Eli (10) and Sarah (7)
Q: What’s it like on the day PJ Library books arrive?
A: We love it when a PJ library book arrives in the mail. It is one of the few pieces of mail that the kids open themselves. They know what the envelope looks like and are always excited to see what is inside!
Q: You have a child who recently “graduated” from PJ Library to PJ Our Way. How is he enjoying the experience?
A: Eli loves that he is now old enough to choose his own books. It’s like going to a bookstore every month and knowing he will be reading something educational and in line with our traditions. In his own words, “I seriously endorse them for anybody. They are amazing.”
Q: What do you think about the quality of PJ Library books?
A: The books are great. Every book we’ve received has been the perfect combination of educational, informative and fun. They are a great way to educate children about Jewish beliefs and traditions. PJ Library books play an important role in our household as a wonderful supplement to what they are learning in Religious School (YeSH). Also, even though our son and daughter generally have very different interests, they both enjoy learning about Judaism through PJ Library books.
Q: What is the bedtime routine at your house?
A: Every night before bed, we read the kids a book. If a PJ Library book was in the mail, the kids usually want to read that one before bed. Although, it may not be the most educational, the kids love “The Runaway Latke” by Leslie Kimmelman. We read it multiple times, especially before Hanukkah.
“The Runaway Latkes” written by Leslie Kimmelman; illustrated by Paul Yalowitz
