By H. Applebaum
SAN DIEGO — What do parents do if they are raising a Jewish child, yet have no resources at hand? The cause could be intermarriage, or living far from family or other Jews, or all of the above. When Jews leave traditional Jewish enclaves, and children come along, it presents a challenge.
This is where PJ Library comes in. Any Jewish child, up to the age of eleven, can be enrolled to receive a free children’s book with a Jewish theme every month. The books are about Jewish values, holidays and history. Some recent titles are: King Solomon and the Bee, Mitzvah Pizza, Dayenu, and Pippa’s Passover Plate. The books are printed in several languages, and are sent throughout North and South America as well as Russia, Europe, Australia, and China. More than 600, 000 children around the world are enrolled, my grandson included.
When I first heard about the program, I was skeptical. Free books, I thought, they’re probably cheaply made. I was wrong. The books are beautifully illustrated and well written, perfectly geared for the child’s age.
My five-year-old grandson already had a collection of wonderful children’s books, so I didn’t expect to see such an enthusiastic response. Perhaps it’s the novelty of getting something in the mail addressed to him, or receiving a present each month, but I know he relates well to the Jewish themes.
For a family that is isolated, the books bring the holidays alive, and also serve as a guide. Not being able to share my seder with my grandchildren, I skyped. My grandson excitedly showed me the colorful poster he had just gotten, telling the story of the exodus, and I was gratified that PJ Library had enriched his holiday.
Any relative or even a friend of a Jewish child can sign up for this wonderful program by going to the PJ Library website.
*
H. Applebaum is a freelance writer based in San Diego.