The Day the Rabbi Disappeared: Jewish Holiday Tales of Magic
What’s inside...
Retellings of twelve traditional tales from Jewish folklore featuring elements of magic and relating to holidays, including Rosh Hodesh, Sukkot, Tu bi-Shevat, and Shabbat. Provides readers with a collection of twelve tales that tie fantasy and magic to major Jewish holidays, such as Yom Kippur, Rosh Hashanah, and Passover. By the author of Next Year in Jerusalem.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
7-10
Length
224 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What did you think about the magic elements in the stories? How do they add to the excitement or meaning of the tales?
Which story was your favorite and why? What did you learn from it?
How do the characters in the stories overcome their challenges? Can you think of a time when you faced a similar challenge?
What do the different Jewish holidays in the stories represent? How do the characters celebrate these holidays?
How do the themes of hope, faith, and community in the stories inspire you in your own life?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their thoughts and feelings about the stories. Listen attentively and validate their interpretations.
Relate the stories to your child’s experiences by asking them to draw parallels between the characters’ adventures and their own life.
Discuss the cultural and historical aspects of the Jewish holidays mentioned in the book to provide a deeper understanding of the context.
Use the magical elements in the tales as a fun starting point to explore creativity and imagination with your child.
Highlight the moral lessons and virtues in the stories and discuss how these can be applied in everyday life.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of kindness and generosity
Explanation: The stories in 'The Day the Rabbi Disappeared' often feature characters who perform acts of kindness, which lead to magical outcomes or the resolution of problems.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to help others without expecting anything in return, understanding that their actions can positively impact someone’s day or life.
Example Lesson: The value of wisdom and clever thinking
Explanation: In several tales, characters face challenges or dilemmas that they overcome through clever strategies rather than using force or authority.
Real-World Application: Kids can be encouraged to think critically and creatively to solve problems, whether in academic settings or in personal conflicts.
Example Lesson: Respect for cultural traditions and history
Explanation: The book is rich with stories that are rooted in Jewish folklore, highlighting the importance of preserving and honoring cultural heritage.
Real-World Application: Children can develop an appreciation for their own and others' cultural backgrounds, promoting inclusivity and understanding.
Example Lesson: The power of repentance and forgiveness
Explanation: Characters in the stories often learn from their mistakes and seek forgiveness, which is granted, restoring harmony.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the importance of acknowledging their mistakes and forgiving others, fostering a forgiving and harmonious environment in their interactions.