Honoring elders, kibud zekaynim, is important not only as a Jewish value, but for society as a whole. We value the wisdom of past generations, our ancestors, and older family members. Treating everyone with respect, but paying particular attention to how we treat seniors, is a building block of Jewish life.
To see this value in action, check out one of the books in this list:
A Concert in the Sand by Tami Shem-Tov
An evening stroll brings a grandmother and grandson to a marvelous concert. This book is based on the true story of the Israeli Philharmonic.
A Different Kind of Passover by Linda Leopold Strauss
Every year, Jessica looks forward to spending Passover with her Grandma and Grandpa -- but this year, Grandpa is sick. Jessica is worried. How will the family make sure the holiday still feels special?
The Art Lesson: A Shavuot Storyby Allison and Wayne Marks
When Grandma Jacobs teaches Shoshana how to make traditional paper cuts, Shoshana wants to make art just as beautiful as her grandmother’s. Can she do it? Maybe she’ll learn more important lessons along the way.
Chicken Soup, Chicken Soup by Pamela Mayer
This adorable story follows little Sophie as she visits each of her grandmothers. She finds an ingenious way to use chicken soup to help her family understand they have more in common than they realize.
First Rain by Charlotte Herman
When Abby moves with her family to Israel, she misses her grandmother and remembers the fun they had with each other. Writing to each other helps, but it doesn’t take the place of spending time together.
Mrs. Katz and Tush by Patricia Polacco
A long-lasting friendship develops between Larnel, a young African-American, and Mrs. Katz, a lonely Jewish widow, when Larnel presents Mrs. Katz with a scrawny kitten.
Say Hello, Lily, by Deborah Lakritz
Lily wants to accompany her mother on her visits as she volunteers at Shalom House, an assisted living facility. The kindness and patience shown by the elderly residents help Lily overcome her shyness.
Find more books like this here.
« Find more activities, book lists, and recipes
July 25, 2011