Product Description

What makes a person a Jew?

Is it the way that they look or the things that they do?

Is being Jewish a matter of how you look, or how you live? Using everyday examples that children can relate to, this colorful book helps all young Jewish readers understand what it really means to be a Jew.

A vibrant and fun way for children to develop a broader knowledge of Judaism and the Jewish People, this book gently guides children down their own path of Jewish spiritual discovery ... and reminds us all that being Jewish is about our deeds, thoughts, and heart.

Product Details

• Amazon Sales Rank: #44610 in Books
• Published on: 2007-02-02
• Original language: English
• Number of items: 1
• Binding: Paperback
• 32 pages

Features

• ISBN13: 9781580233217
• Condition: NEW
• Notes: Brand New from Publisher. No Remainder Mark.
• Click here to view our Condition Guide and Shipping Prices

Review
"A delightful corrective and addition to the field of Jewish children's books. Recognizes the beauty and diversity of Jewish life and people. I recommend it for all Jewish families." -- Yosef Israel Abramowitz, founder, Jewish Family & Life!; coauthor, Holidays and Values for Today's Parents and Children

"A much needed book that gives affirmation to an expansive notion of who is part of the Jewish people. Welcoming and non-judgmental, it is an important expression for the contemporary Jewish world." -- Rabbi Michael Strassfeld, author, A Book of Life: Embracing Judaism as a Spiritual Practice and coauthor, The Jewish Catalog

"Adds the missing link to the library of Jewish picture books. It belongs on the shelf of every synagogue and Jewish preschool. With concise rhyming text and photos of children from around the world, it clarifies for every Jewish child that the Jewish community includes faces like theirs." -- Karen Kushner, director, Project Welcome, Union for Reform Judaism; coauthor, Because Nothing Looks Like God

"Finally! A beautiful book that celebrates the diversity of Jews, of all colors, from all families, and from all places. Offers thoughtful answers to the questions often asked by adopted Jews, Jews of color, and even Jews from traditional families about what it means to be Jewish. Affirms young Jewish identity with great heart. It belongs in every Jewish home!" -- Rabbi/Cantor Angela Warnick Buchdahl, Central Synagogue, New York

"Sometimes the simplest words offer us the most profound of wisdom. Speaks to the heart, mind, and soul of child and adult alike. It displays the community that we strive to create: opening, welcoming, and inclusive. Terrific!" -- Dr. Kerry M. Olitzky, executive director, Jewish Outreach Institute; author, Introducing My Faith and My Community: The Jewish Outreach Institute Guide for the Christian in a Jewish Interfaith Relationship

Customer Reviews

What Makes Someone a Jew?

In simple, rhyming text, Lauren Seidman provides answers to the question posed in the title of this delightful picture book that celebrates diversity. "You don't have to look a certain way to be Jewish," Seidman reasons, but rather it is the values one lives by that matter. Large color photographs of Jewish children from a variety of ethnic backgrounds will engage young children, and offer them a broader perspective of the Jewish community in the United States and beyond. This book holds special appeal for children who have been adopted by Jewish families, as they will likely find within its pages photographs of other Jewish children that look like them. Although intended for a pre-school audience, What Makes Someone a Jew? could also be used with older children to encourage discussions about Jewish identity. The book's positive focus on the traditions and values shared by all Jews, and its inclusive and tolerant message make it a worthy purchase for libraries and schools serving young children and families with young children. For ages 2 - 6. Reviewed by Alison Kelly

Perfect for all children
Seidman's book is pure and simple. A direct address to children about the meaning of being Jewish. To the point. No proselytizing, just the basic tenets of love, sharing and caring. Beautiful photographs.

Fabulous!
A wonderful, delightful book for any kid. Both of my boys love it and like looking at the beautiful pictures. A great addition to a collection and nice way to introduce kids to religious diversity.