Being kind to others, telling the truth, returning a lost item, and apologizing for mistakes--these are all things that kids know they should do, but especially as kids get older, these tasks are not always easy. The stories in this list help children of varying ages learn about the importance of doing the right thing, even when it feels tough to do so. Each book includes vibrant illustrations and a story that makes the lesson easy for kids to absorb without feeling like they’re being hit over the head by the morals.
Recommended for ages 3 to 4
Taking care of the world may feel like a very big job, but even very little people can help. From turning off lights to using both sides of a piece of paper, this book offers easy reminders for all of us to help protect our planet.
Recommended for ages 5 to 6
While working in his grandfather’s bakery, Benny learns the joys of giving and receiving, caring and gratitude.
Recommended for ages 6 to 7
Mrs. Spiegel loves her two cats, but it’s clear that her grouchy neighbor, Mr. Modiano, doesn’t share her warm feelings. Should we be surprised that, when one of the cats goes missing, it is Mr. Modiano who searches the streets of Tel Aviv to find her?
Recommended for ages 7 to 8
When a family of otters moves in next to Mr. Rabbit, he’s a little nervous -- he’s not sure if they’ll get along. But then he remembers the Golden Rule: Do unto otters as you would have otters do unto you! This book shows how treating others with respect is the basis of friendship, cooperation, and sharing.
Recommended for ages 8 and up
A children’s book inspired by a recent archaeological finding from the age of the Temple in Jerusalem. The story, told through the eyes of a young boy, deals with the mitzvah of returning a lost object and provides readers with a sense of the many historical layers of Eretz Yisrael. This book was created in a collaboration between Sifriyat Pijama and Mizrahi Media.
Recommended for ages 4 to 5
All the grownups in the city were too busy to notice. Only a small child saw the injured pigeon lying helplessly on the sidewalk. This quiet story of a boy, a bird, and a broken wing relates the power of compassion, patience, and hope.
Recommended for ages 6 to 7
Joseph always welcomes guests to his Sabbath table, while his neighbor Judah scoffs at Joseph’s generosity. Even as his fortunes decline, Joseph’s door remains open. Times change and Judah turns to Joseph for help. A very special fish helps save the day.
Recommended for ages 6 to 7
Lilly loves her purse -- but when she disrupts class with it, her teacher has to take it away for a while. Lilly doesn't react so well... and soon she's going to have to learn how to say two of the most important words: "I'm sorry.".
Recommended for ages 6 to 7
In this contemporary story, Izzy finds it difficult to apologize for a certain mistake, until the Rosh Hashanah tashlich service gives him new understanding.
Recommended for ages 5 to 6
When Leora finds a chicken in her front yard, she imagines keeping it; her mother has a very different view. Following a Jewish law that “finders aren’t keepers,” the family will care for the chicken until its rightful owner returns. After all, how much trouble can one little chicken be?
March 6, 2018