Many Jews celebrate Rosh Hashanah, the Jewish New Year, by attending synagogue services and sharing festive meals with family and friends. The holiday dinner associated with Rosh Hashanah is characterized by symbolic foods such as apples and honey (which represent the wish for a sweet new year to come) and saying a blessing: “May we be renewed for a good and sweet year.”
With Rosh Hashanah fast approaching, it’s time to read about all about the things you can do with apples other than just dipping them in honey. If you have a young one who loves all things apples, take a look at these PJ library books and learn about a few apple-themed dishes yourself, including applesauce, apple cakes, apple blintzes, and more!
by Allison Soffer
Recommended for ages 4 to 5
Rosh Hashanah is a great time to pick apples and make applesauce. Katy can’t wait. But this year the arrival of a new baby gets in the way. How will Katy celebrate the new year now?
by Joan Holub
Recommended for ages 6 months to 2 years
With each exciting Rosh Hashanah activity shown, little ones begin to explore the meaning and traditions of the Jewish New Year.
by Barbara Bietz and June Sobel
Recommended for ages 6 months to 2 years
It’s Rosh Hashanah, and that means it’s time to dip apples in honey, a classic Rosh Hashanah treat. But wait, apples also make appearances during other holidays, too! This sweet book shows how Jewish celebrations throughout the year are all delicious in their own way.
by Chris Barash
Recommended for ages 2 to 3
Summer has ended, apples are on the trees, leaves are turning color, and families are getting ready for a big holiday. How can kids tell when the new year has arrived? This book will show you.
by Elana Rubinstein
Recommended for ages 8+
Saralee’s family bakery makes the best apple cake around — and at Rosh Hashanah, nothing’s better than apple cake! But a competing bakery has moved to town just when Saralee’s grandfather, the only one who knows the secret ingredient, gets sick. Now Saralee has to figure out how to make that apple cake ... and keep the family business afloat.
Want to learn about more activities to do with apples? Check out how to Make Special Apple-Printed Cards, or these Kid-Pleasing Rosh Hashanah Recipes, or even make honey-scented playdough to get creative with!
September 1, 2024