Customer Reviews

Noah's Wife: The Story of Naamah

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The Story of Naamah tells of Noah's wife's contribution to the Ark. In this beautifully illustrated book, while Noah is gathering the animals, Naamah is gathering all the seeds. It is a wonderfully intentional tale, ripe with meaning and purpose.
I am a childless twentysomething hethan. I read this children's story, and I found myself really appreciating the beauty of religious storytelling. I would imagine some people would get their panties in a knot about this tale, because it is not taken directly from any religious texts. It is simply an inclusive way to explore biblical concepts. It is designed to get kids (especially girls, who can often feel neglected in the patriarchal world of Judeo-Christian monotheism) excited about God and the wonders of the Earth. I can't think of a better harmony.
At the end of the book, the author, a rabbi, explains the impetus behind the story, as well as the meaning of the name Naamah. The author had to create a name because Noah's wife is simply "Noah's wife" and lacks a name in the religious texts. This is an incredible book, especially for people who want their children to use their imaginations and get excited about the world around them.

I read this book several years ago, when I didn't have children yet. I was studying botany as an undergrad, and I am still studying botany in my PhD program.

I found a wonderful inspiration in this book about Noah's wife, gathering the seeds as Noah gathers the animals. People often forget that the plants around them are creatures, too. Plants shape our world and are necessary for life, just as much as animals. Naamah, as the wife of Noah, is given this important, life-sustaining task, and she succeeds in her mission.

Beautiful book. Now that I have my own child, she loves to read it(and look at the pictures), too. I highly recommend this book. It is well-written and superbly illustrated.