Expert: Rabbi Barry Dov Lerner - 2/4/2009

Question
Hi, I am looking for a Jewish story that I can tell with children about the importance of education. Can you help me with any suggestions?

Answer
Dear Victoria,

Thanks for writing.

Unfortunately I am not as current with childrens' literature - Jewish or otherwise - as others, especially librarians. I also wouldn't know for what age level you are interested, but the following possible leads could include both the theme and the age appropriateness for the kind of book you are seeking.

Keep in mind that there are individual books and there are also collections of stories where one or more may fit your need - AND perhaps the other stories teach other positive Jewish values as well.

I would suggest contacting:

1. Librarian at the Jewish Theological Seminary of America, reference desk.

2. Local synagogue library and librarian

3. Local synagogue pre-school director/teacher/ religious education director

4. I myself love Sefer HaAgadah. Sefer Ha-Aggadah was first published in 1908-11 in Odessa, Russia, then reprinted numerous times in Israel. In 1992 it was translated into English as "The Book of Legends," by William G, Braude. This volume is in most libraries.

It has a marvelous Index in which you can find Rabbinic tales from the Talmud, Midrash, including Biblical characters that focus on different values and themes. I haven't checked specifically, but I would imagine that there are a number about education being a Jewish value.

5. You might also try contacting your local Central Agency for Jewish Education / Board of Jewish Education which often has a specialist - often a librarian - who would be familiar with the newest materials.

Best of luck in a very worthy project and search. If and when you have leads, I would myself be grateful for the results.

Rabbi Dov