From School Library Journal
Grade 4-7-An information-packed, exuberant guide to Jewish life, compiled by young students during a summer workshop in Colorado. The results are generally successful, though the book cries out for tighter organization. There is attention to Jewish involvement in the American Revolution, the Civil War, trade unionism, and the civil rights movement. However, the account of colonial settlement is incomplete and misleading. Chapters on the Jewish life cycle and holidays are informative (though Yom Hashoah, the Holocaust Memorial Day, is omitted), and the changing roles of men and women are described. Although tradition is taken as the norm, the perspectives of Conservative, Reform, and Reconstructionist Judaism are acknowledged. Chapters on folktales, cooking, and crafts express cultural flavor. A section on music, theater, and dance deals with both religious and secular aspects of the arts. Biographical sections are scattered throughout the text. The catalog format makes the volume accessible; illustrations include black-and-white photos and drawings. A resource guide lists Jewish organizations. An attempt to present Yiddish and Hebrew terms in English translation is weak, and the list for further reading is skimpy. Despite its flaws, however, the book captures the spirit of the American Jewish experience. Chaya Burstein's The Jewish Kids Catalog (Jewish Publication Society, 1983) covers some of the same ground, but its purpose is different and its scope more limited.
Libby K. White, Schenectady County Public Library, NY
Copyright 1996 Reed Business Information, Inc.
Libby K. White, Schenectady County Public Library, NY
Copyright 1996 Reed Business Information, Inc.
Review
Written by kids, for kids, Kids Explore America's Jewish Heritage introduces young readers to an important part of America's cultural tradition. Students in the Westridge Young Writers Workshop have teamed-up to produce this unique book about Jewish American art, food, history, folk stories, famous people, and music, all from a kid's point of view. Kids Explore America's Jewish Heritage features more than 140 illustrations and photos. Kids Explore America's Jewish Heritage won't just enlighten readers, it will entertain them as well. Our literary future is secure in such capably young hands and creative minds! Send for the free John Muir children's books catalog for a complete listing of the "Kids Explore" titles. -- Midwest Book Review
