Measuring a Year: A Rosh Hashanah Story
What’s inside...
From award-winning author Linda Elovitz Marshall and illustrator Zara González Hoang comes 'Measuring a Year', an engaging picture book about celebrating Rosh Hashanah. This book follows the celebration of the Jewish New Year, from Rosh Hashanah to Yom Kippur, providing a poignant opportunity to reflect on the past year. It invites readers to appreciate the happy moments, acknowledge regrets, and celebrate new friendships and skills acquired. The illustration showcases a diverse group of children experiencing memorable moments throughout the year, making it an accessible and sweet read for families. It also includes an author’s note with additional information about Rosh Hashanah and its customs.
Age
3-5
Length
32 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What are some ways you can measure a year in your life?
How do the characters in the book celebrate Rosh Hashanah and how does it compare to our celebrations?
What new beginnings are you looking forward to in the coming year?
How do the themes of forgiveness and reflection in the story relate to our everyday lives?
Tip: Role play these questions
Relate the story to personal family traditions during Rosh Hashanah or similar new year celebrations in your culture, fostering a connection between the child's experiences and the book's themes.
Encourage your child to think about their own past year and discuss both accomplishments and challenges, relating it back to how characters in the book reflect on their year.
Discuss the importance of forgiveness, using examples from the book and asking the child to share moments when they forgave someone or were forgiven.
Plan a family activity that ties into themes from the book, such as crafting a ‘year in review’ scrapbook or preparing a special meal as mentioned in the story.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Understanding of New Beginnings
Explanation: The story revolves around the celebration of Rosh Hashanah, the Jewish New Year, which symbolizes new beginnings.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to embrace change and view each day as a chance to start afresh, applying this understanding in starting new classes or making new friends.
Example Lesson: Importance of Family Traditions
Explanation: The characters in the book gather to observe Rosh Hashanah, highlighting cherished family rituals and togetherness.
Real-World Application: Children can appreciate and participate in their own family traditions, fostering a sense of belonging and identity.
Example Lesson: Value of Reflection and Forgiveness
Explanation: The story incorporates themes of reflection on the past year and seeking forgiveness, which are key aspects of Rosh Hashanah.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to reflect on their actions, recognize their mistakes, and understand the importance of saying sorry, which is crucial in their interactions at school and at home.
Example Lesson: Celebration of Cultural Diversity
Explanation: Through the depiction of Rosh Hashanah, the book introduces children to Jewish culture and its customs.
Real-World Application: This helps children develop respect and curiosity about different cultures, promoting inclusivity and empathy in their daily interactions.