Families throughout North America will be receiving This is the Challah, a sweet Shabbat story for the whole family, in their PJ Library shipment this May. Behrman House, together with author Sue Hepker and illustrator Amy Wummer, are delighted to partner with this unique organization that helps families connect to their Jewish identity with free Jewish-themed children's books.
This is the Challah tells the story of Bubbe and her grandchildren preparing for Shabbat as a joyful family activity—even when the eggs fall on the floor, the baby cries, and the dog steps in the flour! Bubbe lovingly holds it all together as the chaos builds and then dissipates into a warm, loving family dinner. Told in a cumulative rhyme, This is the Challah makes a perfect read-aloud for bedtime or anytime.
In addition to Bubbe's challah recipe and beautiful full-color illustrations, the PJ Library edition will also come with an accompanying reading guide about the Jewish concepts in the book, topics for discussion, and activities to enhance the family reading experience.
PJ Library is a Jewish family engagement program implemented on a local level throughout North America. They mail free, high-quality Jewish children's literature and music to families across the continent on a monthly basis. These books turn snuggly bedtime moments into Jewish moments.
PJ Library is a program of the Harold Grinspoon Foundation, made possible through partnerships with philanthropists and local Jewish organizations. Monthly book selections for the PJ Library program are chosen by early-childhood educators and children's literature experts. Each age-appropriate selection (available for children from 6 months to 8+ years) features high-quality, beautiful illustrations and compelling stories.
Visit PJLibrary.org to find your local PJ Library program and sign up to receive free books.
Watch "The Magic of PJ Library" to learn more:
(Video by PJ Library)
This is the Challah is also available as an animated e-book for the iPad. Children can listen and read along with the narrator, or even record a parent or themselves reading aloud. In games and animated activities throughout the book, kids can also play crack the eggs, cut the challah, and pick the Shabbat items. They can ever hear the Shabbat blessings and learn to recite them with touch-n-read Hebrew Shabbat prayers. Download it from the App Store now!
