Does your family love to spend the weekend browsing the selections at your local library or book store? Have you ever noticed that some of the author names look a little bit familiar? Some of your favorite actors, comedians, and action stars are also parents--and authors. Here are ten fantastic children’s books by Jewish celebrities to add to your bedtime reading rotation. Looking for more book suggestions? Check out PJ Library’s Jewish children’s book lists.
Being Wendy by Fran Drescher
Recommended for ages 3 to 5
Everyone in Wendy’s town wears a box and a label—it’s just how things are done. The doctor wears a “DOCTOR” box, the teacher wears “TEACHER” box, and the police officers have their “POLICE” boxes. It’s time for Wendy to choose a box and label of her own – but she doesn’t want to be limited by just one choice! If your family enjoys this story about a character who marches to the beat of her own drum, you’ll also like Jumping Jenny and Rifka Takes a Bow.
The Book With No Pictures by B.J. Novak
Recommended for ages 5 to 8
A fantastic read-aloud book for kids of any age. The book with no pictures is exactly that – an inventive children’s book without a single illustration but with lots of creative ways to involve the reader – and the audience listening.
Dear Santa, Love, Rachel Rosenstein by Amanda Peete and Andrea Troyer
Recommended for ages 5 to 9
A great book for parents figuring out how to navigate the “December dilemma.” If you like this book be sure to check out Nonna’s Hanukkah Surprise.
Recommended for ages 4 to 6
Jules the squirrel wants to play football, but the eagle, buffalo, and bear tell him he's all wrong for the game. Luckily a fantastic goat befriends Jules and tells him that a wise person once said, "If you will it, it is no dream." Jules decides to work hard and give it his best shot, despite all the discouragement.
The Hank Zipzer Series by Henry Winkler and Lin Oliver
Recommended for ages 9 to 12
This is a fantastic series for PJ Our Way subscribers to check out. The books are a delightful, funny snapshot of the adventures of Hank, a precocious boy who learns differently than other kids. The Hank Zipzer books are a wonderful way to explore the Jewish value of lomed mikol adam, seeing the value in others, with your kids.
The I’m Books by Michael Ian Black
Recommended for ages 4 to 7
Black’s two books, I’m Sad and I’m Bored, help younger readers explore powerful feelings through bold illustrations and memorable characters.
Marge in Charge by Isla Fisher
Recommended for ages 7 to 8
If you were a fan of the Amelia Bedelia books as a child, you’ll love the Marge series from Isla Fisher. Marge is a zany, off-the-wall babysitter who is not much for following the rules or doing things conventionally.
The Purple Kangaroo by Michael Ian Black
Recommended for ages 4 to 8
A rather wily and silly monkey insists that he can read readers' minds. The monkey invites the readers to imagine all sorts of unusual and crazy things, getting more and more outlandish in his descriptions as the book progresses. You’ll enjoy this book if you’re a fan of silly read-aloud books like Beautiful Yetta and Five Little Gefiltes.
She Persisted: 13 American Women Who Changed the World by Chelsea Clinton
Recommended for ages 5 to 8
In this beautifully illustrated book, Chelsea Clinton introduces readers and their families to thirteen trail-blazing figures who never gave up in the pursuit of their goals. If your family enjoys this book, you’ll love these 7 Books About Incredible Jewish Women.
The Sissy Duckling by Harvey Fierstein
Recommended for ages 5 to 8
The other ducks tease Elmer for being different – he likes to bake, wear fancy clothes, and put on shows rather than play outside. The other ducks learn a valuable lesson when Elmer’s wit and unique way of thinking help save the day.
Looking for more book recommendations? Check out one of the lists of Jewish Children’s Books below:
15 Kids’ Books Featuring Characters Who Speak Their Minds
Jewish Children’s Books For Kids Who Love the Arts
12 Jewish Children’s Books to Inspire Self-Confidence
June 1, 2018