Picture books for young readers are the absolute perfect way to introduce new cultures and traditions or present to them what their own family’s culture looks like! For this week’s installment of Three to Read Jr., we’ve gathered a list of three remarkably beautiful books for little ones to gain insight into Jewish culture. With something for all age ranges, these picks will offer your child enjoyment and teach them some valuable perspectives!
EARLY READERS
Shabbat Shalom: Let’s Rest and Reset by Suzy Ultman
SYNOPSIS:
Shabbat Shalom introduces children to the Jewish day of rest, validating the varied experiences of Jewish traditions and delivering insightful information for both Jewish and non-Jewish readers. The day of rest happens each week from sunset on Friday to sunset on Saturday. Shabbat is a peaceful time to step away from the business of everyday life and remember the creation of the world.
WHY:
This adorable Jewish-themed board book series is the first of its kind to incorporate both Jewish traditions and Jewish cultures! Offering a beautiful representation of Judaism, Shabbat Shalom illuminates insightful aspects of Jewish culture while also encouraging curiosity, inclusivity, and understanding. The story easily explains to young readers the meaning of Shabbat and makes space for different expressions and experiences of Jewish identity. Whether your child is familiar with Shabbat or learning about it for the first time, this book holds great respect for it and the religious traditions that come with its message.
ELEMENTARY READERS
The Keeper of Stories by Caroline Kusin Pritchard, Illustrated by Selina Alko
SYNOPSIS:
A library holds a place for stories, memories, and hope. But what happens when that place is under threat and in danger? In 1966, a fire breaks out at New York’s Jewish Theological Seminary library, and firefighters desperately race to the scene. However, by the end of the day, thousands of books have already been lost or burned to ashes. As the community faces this devastation, they realize they may be able to lend a helping hand.
WHY:
This story is a powerful reminder of how communities can come together in the face of loss. Highlighting Jewish culture, The Keeper of Stories teaches children about the value of preserving culture, books, and the strength found in unity. Based on a true historical event, this story helps young readers understand how, even in moments of loss, hope can still endure. It’s an inspiring read for all and encourages empathy and appreciation of literature!
MIDDLE GRADE READERS
A World Worth Saving by Kyle Lukoff
SYNOPSIS:
Coming out as trans didn’t exactly go well for A. Most days, he barely leaves his house or even his bedroom. But his low point in life isn’t online school or missing his bar mitzvah, it’s the weekly Save Our Sons and Daughters meetings his parents drag him to. At the meetings, A and his friends, Sal and Yarrow, must sit by while their parents deadname them. Yet when Yarrow mysteriously vanishes, A realizes something is off about SOSAD… something that has also affected the entire world. Now faced with the mission to save his friend, A, who hasn’t even chosen a name for himself yet, must do whatever he can to save the world.
WHY:
This action-packed, high-stakes novel shares an uplifting adventure that intertwines Jewish mythology with the impacts of transphobia. A World Worth Saving speaks to the pain of rejection, the importance of a support system, and the courage it takes to stand up for yourself in a world that desperately wants to silence you. This delightful read gives young readers — especially those of Jewish descent and those exploring their gender identity — important representation and the reminder that they are never alone.
That’s it for this week’s Three to Read Jr.! We hope you’ll join us in future installments to see more of our recommendations for young bookworms.
To read our other Three to Read articles, click here!
Browse these books and more reads handpicked by the Bookstr team on our Three to Read bookshelf on Bookshop!
