Kar-Ben Publishing, a children’s book publisher that has been releasing Jewish books since its inception in 1975, is excited to share its newest library of releases. Backed by a slew of prolific and talented Jewish authors and illustrators, the award-winning publishing company continues to deliver stories that any young child can enjoy. The books are easy reads, and each possesses a heartwarming message or lesson to be learned. The illustrations complement the stories, and bring the text to life with pictures full of personality and depth. With exciting titles such as “You’re the Cheese in my Blintz,” “Miriam at the River,” “Judah Touro Didn’t Want to be Famous” and “Clarence’s Topsy-Turvy Shabbat.” among many others, there are now more reasons than ever to get excited about Kar-Ben Publishing.
You’re the Cheese in my Blintz, written by Leslie Kimmelman and illustrated by Ramona Kaulitzki, is a short story about parents’ love for their children. With examples about things that are incomplete without their second half––such as cheese in blintzes––the message is one of love. Kaulitzki’s pictures backs up Kimmelman’s writing with emotional images of parents sharing moments with their children. It’s perfect for any parent looking for a short book to read to their child as a bedtime story.
Miriam at the River, written by Jane Yolen with illustration by Khoa Le, tells the story of baby Moses’ delivery to the Nile River through Miriam’s point of view. Yolen’s text describes Miriam as a loving sister sharing an emotional moment with her newborn brother before sending him on the journey that inevitably changes the course of Jewish history. With Pesach coming up, it’s a great opportunity to teach children about Miriam and her role in the story. It’s also great for parents looking to teach children the importance of sibling love and connections.
Judah Touro Didn’t Want to be Famous, written by Audrey Ades and illustrated by Vivien Mildenberger, is a story about Judah Touro, a real-life, Jewish businessman who lived during the 18th and 19th centuries. Over the course of his life, Touro, who became successful after moving to New Orleans, made many anonymous donations to help others. His story is one of unfettered generosity, and Ades’ text and Mildenberger’s illustrations capture his persona and desire to help his fellow man.
Clarence’s Topsy-Turvy Shabbat, written by Jennifer Tzivia Macleod and illustrated by Jennie Poh, is about Clarence, a racoon who just loves Shabbat. Over the course of the story, readers see Clarence’s Shabbat preparations, including gathering ingredients to make challah. The problem is that Clarence confuses the ingredients he needs with other items, such as actual flowers, instead of the flour needed for baking. The story is humorous, gentle and perfect for young readers. The combination of Macleod’s text and Poh’s illustrations only serve to add to the reading experience.
Kar-Ben Publishing’s current library of books are available worldwide. You can buy them on Amazon or from participating vendors. To learn more about these and other new releases by Kar-Ben, visit the website at https://www.karben.com. The site also offers opportunities to invite authors to speak at schools or events, plan book fairs and even create custom calendars.
Adam Samuel is a journalist from Teaneck. He blogs at www.adamssoapbox.com.�
