This is where I spotlight Jewish storytellers! As the Jewish people are a minority and take up only 0.2% of the world's population, reading and supporting Jewish authors goes hand-in-hand with my mission to celebrate diverse stories and advocate for reading inclusivity.
I am filled with gratitude for all the support I received for my Bar Mitzvah from so many amazing storytellers! I Invite You to Watch My Bar Mitzvah video card from the wonderful book world!
Today’s author interview is one very close to my heart. I’m speaking with a prolific writer of beautiful picture books. Books that teach valuable lessons, educate and inform, and most importantly, warms the hearts of her readers. From books like, RAINBOW ALLIES, to MARTIN & ANN, to A QUEEN TO THE RESCUE, to BEAUTIFUL SHADES OF BROWN: THE ART OF LAURA WHEELER WARING, my guest has written it all. And all her picture books feature characters from diverse backgrounds. From LGBTQ+, to Jewish, to South Asian, to so much more! Who am I talking with today, well in case you haven’t already figured it out yet, I’m interviewing the one and only NANCY CHURNIN! Reader: Middle-Grade & YA
THE BLETCHLEY RIDDLE is a fascinating, mysterious, and all-around awesome story that middle-graders and even young adult readers will enjoy. A swift, engaging and thrilling historical fiction read brought to life by award-winning co-writers Steve Sheinkin and Ruta Sepetys. I learned so much about the Bletchley Estate and some of the incredible minds of the time & the everyday life, both trials and errors of attempts to solve the Enigma Code & other mysteries! From curious protagonists, to new knowledge gained, this is a new favorite story of mine! Check it out when it arrives in the book world in October 2024! A 10/10 novel for sure! Title: THE BLETCHLEY RIDDLE Published by: Viking Books for Young Readers (owned by Penguin Random House) Author(s): Ruta Sepetys and Steve Sheinkin
Reader: Middle-Grade & YA
For the first time in history, a gay Jewish man has won president, and it seems the country is going to change for the better, but a demanded recount might just change everything. David Levithan crafted a beautiful and truly realistic story for readers’ with curious and fierce eyes. WIDE AWAKE NOW is a story of togetherness, of unity. "Together Strong" is the message I received from this impactful book, hundreds of thousands came together for the good of the country, for the good of the world! While we have yet to have a gay or Jewish president, there are so many signs of growing governmental diversity in the world.
Title: WIDE AWAK NOW Author: David Levithan
Reader: YA/Adult
Published: Penguin Random House
As Jews all over the world observe Yom HaShoah, The Day of Remembrance, by remembering the six million Jewish lives stolen and murdered during the Holocaust, I honor this important day by reading a story that demonstrates the power of hope, THE TREE OF LIFE: HOW A HOLOCASUT SAPLING INSPIRED THE WORLD by award-winning author Elisa Boxer and illustrated by Alianna Rozentsveig. This is a story of how one small tree sapling inspired hope and survival to children during the holocaust. A story that reminds us, today and always, that we must always find new ways to inspire and spread home. NOW more than ever, WE MUST REMEMBER and WE MUST STAY STRONG and WE MUST KEEP HOPE ALIVE!
I'm so happy I had the chance to sit down virtually with one of my very favorite people, an award-winning storyteller of profoundly meaningful and powerful kidlit books, with stories that make your mind think and your heart melt, author Emily Barth Isler. This is my second interview with the marvelous middle-grade (soon to be picture book) writer Emily Barth Isler. Emily's newest book The Color of Sound is a multi-themed complex and layered story filled with coming-of-age, Jewish, and diverse topics that make Emily's story an absolute must read! What's even more special about this video is that I'm sharing our talk in honor of Jewish American Heritage Month! Click play and come celebrate #JewishAmericanHeritageMonth & #middlegrade stories with me! Enjoy!
I had a fantastic time talking about the art of storytelling with multi-award-winning author & talented podcaster Adam Gitwitz! Historical fiction will always hold a special place in my reading heart and Adam adds magic, heart, and humor to all his historically fun and fanciful stories. From THE INQUISITOR’S TALE to MAX IN THE HOUSE OF SPIES, all of Adam’s reads keep readers entertained, informed and ALWAYS wanting more! This is a talk I will always remember! Watch and see why! If you want to learn more about Adam’ Gitwitz writing or listen to his fantastic PODCAST, tune into our interview! Follow Adam's journey at: https://www.adamgidwitz.com/
ON ALL OTHER NIGHTS is a special and needed tale. Celebrating the Jewish holiday of Passover, a time of somberness, but also hope, each of the 14 tales, crafted by 14 uniquely talented authors, discuss a certain step of the Passover Seder. From kadesh to nirchatz! It's not often you find a Jewish-themed anthology in the book world, so it makes my heart sing that ON ALL OTHER NIGHTS is out in the world! A perfect read for all who observe the holiday, but also a wonderful way to learn and grow your heart and mind and learn about the Jewish people! An important, entertaining, and meaningful read! Let's celebrate diversity and inclusion in middle-grade! Happy Passover & Happy Reading! Thank you for watching my book review of ON ALL OTHER NIGHTS. If you enjoyed this video, please give it a LIKE & SUBCRIBE to my channel. The full list of On All Other Nights contributors includes: Chris Baron (The Magical Imperfect) Ruth Behar (Lucky Broken Girl) Adam Gidwitz (A Tale Dark and Grimm, The Unicorn Rescue Society) Veera Hiranandani (The Night Diary) Amy Ignatow (The Popularity Papers, Jedi Academy) Sarah Kapit (Get a Grip, Vivy Cohen) Joshua S. Levy (The Jake Show) Mari Lowe (Aviva vs. the Dybbuk) Naomi Milliner (Super Jake & The King of Chaos) Soifya Pasternack (Black Bird, Blue Road) R. M. Romero (The Dollmaker of Kraków) A. J. Sass (Ana on the Edge) Laura Shovan (The Last Fifth Grade of Emerson Elementary) Laurel Snyder (Orphan Island, Charlie & Mouse)
We all know I'm a huge historical fiction fan, and HEROES is the perfect combination of excitement, history & truth. New York Times Bestselling author Alan Gratz is a legend of historical fiction, and his newest middle-grade novel discussing Pearl Harbor, takes the cake as one of my top reads of 2024! You'll also find themes of friendship, coming of age, and bravery, all wrapped up PERFECTLY in Alan's newest action-packed middle-grade masterpiece HEROES! An absolute must read! Thanks for watching my #bookreview of HEROES! If you enjoyed my video, please give it a LIKE and SUBCRIBE to my channel! You can also follow me at www.etraintalks.com
One of my all-time favorite interviews! Chris Baron has always supported my literacy journey and I knew I would love chatting with him! A skillful and accomplished poet and author, who has the remarkable gift of writing about sensitive, meaningful and oftentimes painful middle-school topics, in a way that brings comfort and understanding to everyone who reads his stories. I’m so proud to share my talk with the incredible Chris Baron, a lyrical writer and multi-award winning-author, and a Jewish storyteller I’ve admired since reading his first novel-in-verse ALL OF ME, the one and only, Author Chris Baron. Follow author Chris Baron's journey at: www.chris-baron.com
I had the honor of sitting down virtually a second time with the one-and-only, master of his crafty, Author Steve Sheinkin. A Newbery Honor & Sydney Taylor Book Award Honoree, as well as countless other awards, Steve is the writer of entertaining, suspenseful and important historical fiction and non-fiction books for middle-grade and YA readers. In this interview we talk about his award-winning story, IMPOSSIBLE ESCAPE. Traveling across the ocean to witness the path his two heroic protagonists took as they escaped the Nazi Concentration Camp, Auschwitz, during WW2. This is an interview you don't want to miss, and IMPOSSIBLE ESCAPE is a book you must read. An impactful and meaningful talk that readers of all ages needs to hear. Author Steve Sheinkin is writer of suspenseful nonfiction books for middle schoolers and young adults. A former textbook writer turned adventure history writer and one of my favorite book heroes! Continue learning about Steve's incredible writing journey on social media and at: www.stevesheinkin.com
I devoured THE JAKE SHOW! Seriously, I sat down and started reading and before I knew it the Jake show was over! It's so good! Now I want a sequel, a renewal, a SEASON TWO! THE JAKE SHOW by award-winning and Sydney Taylor Honoree author Joshua S. Levy is a wonderfully crafted and entertaining middle grade story, but with the added bonus of Jewish themes included, it's also a wonderfully meaningful book for Jewish middle-schoolers to find themselves in! I highly recommend you finding a copy of THE JAKE SHOW, an emotionally engaging, relevant, and page-turning read! Find out more about author Josh S. Levy's book journey here: www.joshuasimonlevy.com
I'm so excited to be a part of the Association of Jewish Libraries (AJL) 2024 Sydney Taylor Book Award Blog Tour. The Sydney Taylor Book Award Tour features interviews with all of the award-winning authors and illustrators, and I had the honor to interview Sydney Taylor Award Honoree author Joshua S. Levy, the writer behind the extraordinary middle-grade novel, THE JAKE SHOW! Watch my talk with Josh and learn all about his meaningful and engaging Jewish-themed award-winning story, THE JAKE SHOW, as well as the writing journey behind his other fun and engaging books. Follow Joshua S. Levy's writing adventures at: www.joshuasimonlevy.com
What a deeply impactful and eye-opening read! And sadly, with everything going on currently in the world, it turns out this is also a very timely read as well. Author Steve Sheinkin never ceases to amaze me with his epic historical non-fiction reads, and his latest novel IMPOSSIBLE ESCAPE is a true example of how he is the master of his craft. This is the recounting of two Slavs and their heroic and remarkable escape from Auschwitz-Birkenau and journey to freedom in Slovakia. IMPOSSIBLE ESCAPE is a true story that needs to be read and shared. A book that must be found in every classroom and library not just across the United States, but the entire world! Discover more of Steve Sheinkin's incredible books at https://stevesheinkin.com. I had the honor of interviewing Steve on my podcast as well. Watch our talk here: https://youtu.be/fiTv95-vXJA?si=FgHFb...
For my November Good Day Book Reviews I spotlighted two books by one of my favorite authors, Liza Wiemer . Liza’s stories are filled with themes of togetherness, kindness, and change. These are perfect stories to help remind us of what's most what really matters! Now more than ever we need to spread kindness. In fact, kindness and generosity are themes found in most Jewish teachings, as well as in nearly every Jewish themed book I've read. Let's spread kindness to the whole wide world!
Award-winning Author Ruth Behar has given the world yet another deeply moving and heartwarming historical fiction middle-grade novel, ACROSS SO MANY MILES, a beloved Jewish-themed book that shares the message of hope. While the present maybe scary, Ruth’s story reminds us that when we band together, stand together, and speak up together, we can make sure history doesn’t repeat itself. There is always hope in the rubble, we just have to find it. Thank you for writing such important and meaningful stories Ruth! I was fortunate enough to review an advanced readers copy of ACROSSS SO MANY MILES, but you can grab your own copy of this 10/10 read in early February 2024. Published by Nancy Paulsen Books Expect on the shelves on February 6, 2024
RUMOR HAS IT, Erika Lewis has a new middle-grade novel coming in 2023! Watch my wonderful interview with Erika Lewis, where I interview her a SECOND Time ahead of the release of her newest book, KELCIE MURPHY FOR THE HEART OF DANU coming May 23, 2023, for my first Rumor Has It episode! Erika is the author of the fast-paced and thrilling KELCIE MURPHY AND THE ACADEMY FOR THE UNBREAKABLE ARTS, an American Library Association, gold starred middle-grade read! If you're looking for an entertaining novel, and an author interview that's sure to make you smile, you're in the right book place!
I was absolutely thrilled to sit down with the award-winning debut middle-grade writer of medieval magic Alysa Wishingrad, the author behind “The Verdigris Pawn!” In our talk, Alysa speaks passionately and profoundly about important middle grade topics & is wonderful human being. This is one interview one you don't want to miss! Follow Alysa's writing journey here: https://alysawishingrad.com/
What a thought-provoking, inspiring, and extremely relevant read! THE DO-MORE CLUB not only warmed my heart, but its message is also an important reminder to us all, that kindness comes in many forms, and it can be shared in big or small acts. I'm grateful to author Dana Kramaroff for writing such a powerful story. Author Dana Kramaroff's writing pulls you in and keeps you glued to every page. THE DO MORE CLUB is an entertaining, heartfelt, and relevant read, that needs to be in all middle-school classrooms. 10/10 Follow Dana Kramaroff's writing journey at: https://danakramaroff.com
In this interview, I talk everything Jewish-themed books with Joanne Levy, the award-winning author of many middle-grade novels for kids. Joanne has been a supporter of my reading journey from the beginning, so this interview is one extremely close to my heart! Watch & learn about literacy advocacy, how to fight antisemitism & more! Be sure to follow Joanne's writing journey at: www.joannelevy.com
HIDDEN TRUTHS is sure to become a favorite in the middle-grade book world. Featuring subtle Jewish themes, a friendship that will stay in your heart forever, and a big mystery, Elly Swartz takes readers on an eye-opening, page turning, alternate points of view, roller-coaster of emotions, adventure! I've read and loved Elly Swartz's middle-grade novel DEAR STUDENT, so after hearing Elly had a new book out, I knew I had to get my hands on a copy. Luckily enough, I was sent an ARC (advanced readers copy) and dove right in! My day is always brightened when I pick up a novel by the amazing Elly Swartz, and I guarantee after reading HIDDEN TRUTHS, you'll feel the same way! Thanks for watching my #bookreview of HIDDEN TRUTHS. If you enjoyed this video, please give it a like, and subscribe to my channel. Be sure to follow Elly Swartz's writing journey on social media and at: https://ellyswartz.com
It’s time to celebrate the Jewish Holiday of Purim! In this video I’m reading aloud the sweet picture book, SAMMY SPIDER’S FIRST PURIM, by author Sylvia A. Rouss & Illustrated by Katherine Janus Kahn. I love the SAMMY SPIDER’S FIRST series, each story is filled Jewish learning and so much joy! The stories are simple, yet attention grabbing and heartfelt early literacy picture book classics!
In this video I’m celebrating the book birthday of the wonderful picture book, OUT AND ABOUT: A TALE OF GIVING by the amazing author Liza Wiemer! Watch as I share a sneak peek into this sweet, meaningful & Jewish themed story aloud! Written by author Liza Wiemer Illustrated by Margeaux Lucas Published by Kalaniot Books
I loved reading APPLES APPLES, ALL YEAR ROUND! A picture book, written by the author duo of Barbara Beitz & June Sobel, perfectly expresses the significance of apples in Jewish culture. A sweet read to go along with a sweet fruit! If you’re looking for a special story that tells the tales of every Jewish holiday, in an easy-to-read book, APPLES APPLES, ALL YEAR ROUND is perfect for you!
Wow! Today, I’m talking to none other than the Man, the Myth and the storytelling legend himself, The New York Times bestselling and truly awesome author of the “Spy School,” “Charlie Thorne,” “Fun Jungle,” “Space Base Alpha,” and “Once Upon a Time” novels, Stuart Gibbs! For years I’ve devoured Stuart’s books, and now I have the chance to interview him for the second time, a dream come true! Check out our talk and learn about everything from his environmentally sound stories, to his newest book, SPY SCHOOL GOES NORTH, to his childhood pet snake that gave birth! Seriously! Go check out our epic talk, you'll learn so much & laugh a lot too! Follow Stuart's writing journey at: https://stuartgibbs.com
This month I'm spotlighting one of my all-time favorite middle-grade authors, Stuart Gibbs! I had no idea Stuart Gibbs was Jewish when I first dove into his New York Times Bestselling series, SPY SCHOOL! Not that it would make a difference, I'd love Stuart’s books no matter what, but it makes me proud knowing we have something meaningful in common!
SPY SCHOOL GOES NORTH, the 11th book in the SPY SCHOOL series, once again did NOT disappoint. Full of cool twists and turns, epic snow adventures, and lots more attention-grabbing fun, storytelling legend Stuart Gibbs takes us on yet another page-turning read! ! I guarantee you will love book 11, SPY SCHOOL GOES NORTH! 10/10!
A sequel is often the toughest book for authors to write, but it's always helpful when they have an amazing editor to shine a light on important details to be added and information to be taken out. The combination of author extraordinaire Tom Phillips and Pixe+Ink Editor Alison Weiss make for the perfect team. These two people are certainly "in-the-know" when it comes to the writing world, so If you are looking for writing advice on how to write a sequel, or are interested in writing your very first book, Tom and Alison have the tools to share with you! Be sure to watch our informative and also entertaining discussion. You'll take away knowledge you won't be able to find in many other interviews. Have fun listening and good luck on your future writing and reading adventures! Be sure to check out Tom Phillips' CURIOUS LEAGUE OF DETECTIVES AND THIEVES middle-grade series, and all the Pixel+Ink books that Alison edits. You'll leave with new favorite stories! You can follow Tom's story writing journey at: https://www.tomphillipswriter.com Thanks for watching my latest interview! If you enjoyed this video, please give it a like and subscribe to my channel.
“Whoever saves a single life is considered to have saved the whole world” A VISIT TO MOSCOW is a #story that needs to be read! In a graphic #novel portrayed in bold & colorful illustrations, Anna Olswanger shines a light on what really happened to the #Jewish people in the Soviet Union. A VIST TO MOSCOW is the retelling of what Rabbi Rafael Grossman witnessed during his visit to the Soviet Union in 1965. A heartfelt tale that I hope #teachers & #librarians will “Whoever saves a single life is considered to have saved the whole world” A VISIT TO MOSCOW is a story that needs to be read! In a graphic novel portrayed in bold & colorful illustrations, Anna Olswanger shines a light on what really happened to the Jewish people in the Soviet Union. A VIST TO MOSCOW is the retelling of what Rabbi Rafael Grossman witnessed during his visit to the Soviet Union in 1965. A heartfelt tale that I hope teachers & librarians share with kids all over! A story I’m proud to highlight this month for my bar mitzvah project. Throughout the year I’m spotlighting Jewish authors & the stories they write on my bar mitzvah website https://etraintalks.com & on my social media. Find your copy of this important read at your nearest library at https:/worldcat.org Adapted by: Anna Olswanger Illustrated by: Yevgenia Published by: West Margin Press
It was a treat talking everything middle-grade books with author and literacy advocate Gae Polisner! Gae is the author of numerous YA & middle-grade books, including, CONSIDER THE OCTOPUS! Not only that, but Gae is also a talented artist too! Gae has been such a huge supporter of my reading journey and it was so much fun chatting with her! Be sure to watch our talk and learn more!
Watch my interview with the simply amazing Author Elly Swartz. Elly is the author of four contemporary middle grade novels, including the heartfelt DEAR STUDENT. And, not only is Elly an amazing storyteller, but she's also an attorney (WOW)! Elly has been a huge supporter of all of my bookish endeavors and I am thrilled to talk with her on E Train Talks! Learn more about Elly's fascinating life, as well as her writing journey, in our talk!
I had the honor of interviewing the award-winning, New York Times Best Selling author, who’s books always entertain, and inspire, as well as educate, and touch his readers' hearts, my personal hero and storytelling legend Author Gordon Korman! When I learned that Gordon is also Jewish, I knew I had to spotlight his work on my Bar Mitzvah Project Page!
In honor of my upcoming Bar Mitzvah, I'm spotlighting Jewish authors & their stories every month in 2023. So you can imagine how happy I was when I found out storytelling legend author Gordon Korman, author of 101 fantastic middle-grade books, is also Jewish! I love every book I've read of Gordon's, but his book, LINKED is a story that is near and dear to my heart! With themes of tolerance, acceptance & combating antisemitism, LINKED is the perfect book to REMIND US TO ALWAYS REMEMBER AND NEVER
In this video I talk "everything books" with Stacy Nockowitz, an educator, literacy advocate, and now Author! Watch and find out about her debut thrilling, Jewish themed, middle grade novel, "The Prince of Steel Pier," as well as, growing up in the 70's!
In this video, I discuss the wonderful "Coming of Age, 13 B'nai Mitzvah Stories" anthology with six of the thirteen authors. In our conversations, we talk about combating anti-Semitism with numbers higher than ever, Jewish traditions, and so much more! I adore all these incredible writers, and after watching this panel interview, so will you! It's important now more than ever to have these kinds of conversations, and we hope you'll join us in the fight for diversity, and acceptance!
I'm raising funds to buy books to donate to schools, libraries & kids in need! My mission is to spread book joy & inspire a love of reading! Help me show kids that BOOKS CHANGE LIVES & OPEN DOORS to the future! Please Give to my GoFundMe.
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Happy Jewish Heritage Month! To celebrate, I put together a playlist of all the incredible authors, of Jewish descent, I've had the honor of interviewing! Having the chance to meet & talk with so many amazing Jewish writers has been a dream come true & I am forever grateful! Click, Watch & Celebrate: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ncQwrnzF_YI&list=PL0K790j89gyHdTTmhODZBcDFh6y_1bqcs&pp=gAQB
Happy Jewish Heritage Month! To celebrate I'm spotlighting Canadian author and filmmaker Hart Snider.
I had the huge honor of interviewing the one and only film maker and middle-grade author of "The Basketball Game," Hart Snider! Hart is a director, writer, and story editor, who’s edited films and series for CBC, NFB, Paramount Television, Nat Geo, Global, History, Food Network, NBA Canada, and more, and yes, on top of all this, he’s also a published author! Not to mention Hart’s been Honored by the government of Alberta Canada and winner of most inspirational short film, as well as recognized for many of his incredible film and writing projects.
NOTE: More on author Hart Snider's book, THE BASKET BALL GAME. "Back in Alberta in the summer of 1983, representatives of a small town named Eckville met with a nearby Jewish community in Edmonton, after the antisemitic conspiracy theory-fuelled lessons of the town's social studies teacher and mayor, Jim Keegstra, became national news. They were invited to a get together at a Jewish summer camp, away from the press and onlookers, so that Keegstra's former students, who'd been taught so much hatred, could have a picnic, play sports, and meet Jewish kids for the first time. Filmmaker/Author Hart Snider was a scared nine year old that summer, who'd never even been away at camp before, and ended up playing in a basketball game he's never forgotten." You can read about Hart's experience in his graphic Novel THE BASKETBALL GAME, and watch our talk in this video to learn more.
Follow Hart Snider's journey here: http://www.cutandpaste.ca/
To commemorate the start of Holocaust Remembrance Day (Yom HaShoah), I spoke with Gidon Lev, co-author of THE TRUE ADVENTURES OF GIDON LEV: RASCAL. HOLOCAUST SURVIVOR. OPTIMIST," about his experiences before, during, and after the holocaust. Gidon is a hero! At just age 6 he was sent to the Terezin concentration camp and was one of only 29 children to survive, out of the15,000 total children sent. But Gidon's story doesn't end there! Today, at 88 years young, Gidon is kindness hero! He's he is teaching the world to be tolerant and he’s sharing the truth about the holocaust and helping to put an end to hate and antisemitism. Not only is Gidon speaking up against antisemitism, but he's has also taken social media by storm with his sensational TikToks, advocating for the next generation to speak out against injustice! Gidon's work inspires youth and adults alike to take a stand, to combat anti-semitism, and to reject hate in all forms. Gidon maintains that black rights, trans rights, women's rights, and ALL rights are human rights!
THE TRUE ADVENTURES OF GIDON LEV, by author Julie Gray, and written with Gidon Lev, shares the incredible story of Gidon’s journey, from before, during, and after being a child imprisoned in a Nazi concentration camp. Gidon’s story will remind you that anything is possible and to keep looking ahead for your next adventure! Follow Gidon's journey here: https://www.thetrueadventures.com
I’d been wanting to read the Holocaust graphic novel MAUS by Art Spiegelman for a while & I finally did! MAUS has been banned around the US & the world. It’s a story that needs to be told, read and remembered! Read MAUS & Never Forget! #NeverAgain
In honor of Holocaust Remembrance Day (Yom HaShoah), I had the honor of interviewing the multi award-winning author of over 45 fiction and non-fiction novels, author Carol Matas! I admire Carol because she shares the truth in her stories, the truth we all need to hear! Carol Matas is the author behind the well known middle grade Holocaust Novel, DANIEL'S STORY, which is one of the very first Holocaust stories written for children. "Daniel's Story" is also part of the inspiration behind the "Remember The Children: Daniel's Story" exhibition at the United States Holocaust Museum. Watch my interview with Carol and find out more about her amazing writing journey!
Follow Carol at: https://carolmatas.comTo learn more about the "Remember The Children: Daniel's" Story exhibit click here: https://www.ushmm.org/online-calendar...
In honor of Holocaust Remembrance Day, I reviewed the moving middle grade novel DANIEL'S STORY by brilliant author Carol Matas! It's so important to shed light on what happened during the Holocaust to ensure it NEVER HAPPENS AGAIN! This story tells the heartbreaking truth. A story every kid and adult needs to read. Follow Carol Matas on social media & on her website at: https://carolmatas.com/
**Look for my interview with Carol Matas coming Spring of 2023
April is the month we remember those who perished in the Holocaust and I'm spotlighting authors who wrote stories to educate and inspire & teach the truth! In this video I speak with the award-wining author of meaningful YA, Adult, and Children's books, Liza Wiemer. Watch as Liza and I talk about everything from bullying to book banning, to combating anti-semitism. Liza is so passionate about teaching truth and stopping hate! I learned so much talking with her. Watch, learn and be inspired!
Since Holocaust Remembrance Day (Yom HaShoah)Holiday
I thought it would be the perfect time to share the profound Middle Grade/Young Adult novel, “THE ASSIGNMENT” by the brilliant author, Liza Wiemer. This story educated & inspired me! Tears welled in my eyes while reading it! Watch my book review of Liza’s beautiful book!
“Hana’s Suitcase: The Quest To Solve A holocaust mystery” is an award winning true story written by author Karen Levine. A heartfelt tale of one woman’s journey to start a Holocaust Education Center in Tokyo, Japan, and how in the process, she uncovers the mystery of Hana’s suitcase. An inspiring and meaningful book that needs to be read, told and shared in classrooms and libraries everywhere! 50/50! Stories like HANA'S SUITCAST must be read so we #NEVERFORGET
In keeping with my goal of reading books that are centered around WW2, I reviewed the thrilling middle grade non-fiction tale UNBREAKABLE: THE SPIES WHO CRACKED THE NAZIS’ SECRET CODE, by the talented & brilliant author Rebecca E. F. Barone. A story that reminds us of what went on behind the scenes in the desperate battle and race against the clock to end WW2. A page-turning true story you won’t want to put down until you’ve read every last incredible detail! 10/10
In honor of Pride Month, I sat down virtually with the FABULOUS author Jake Maia Arlow! Jake is an award-winning middle-grade and young adult author, whose stories are relatable and seriously relevant works of writing art! I was so excited to have the chance to talk with Jake about their newest middle-grade realistic fiction, diverse masterpiece, THE YEAR MY LIFE WENT DOWN THE TOILET. This book includes themes of queerness, Judaism, family drama, and even touches on the subject of Crohn’s disease, Jake packs this epic & heartwarming middle school adventure with everything needed to make THE YEAR MY LIFE WENT DOWN THE TIOLET your next favorite MGLIT read! But don’t take my word for it, watch our epic talk and find out more (and read Jake's book)! Want to learn more! Check out Jake Maia Arlow's website at: https://www.jakewhosagirl.com/
I'm Spot Lighting Jake Maia Arlow This Month for Pride Month! A Jewish Author & Jewish Themed Story Highlight!
In a world where books tend to just tackle one or two problems, author Jake Maia Arlow’s newest book, THE YEAR MY LIFE WENT DOWN THE TOILET, takes readers on a middle-school challenge filled journey, true to the lives of many tweens and teens today! With themes of queerness, religion, family, friendship, and the tummy ache of the century, Jake takes us on a coming-of-age reading adventure filled with everything needed to make this your new favorite read! I’m so glad I was able to review this fantastic book! THE YEAR MY LIFE WENT DOWN THE TOILET is a very special 10/10 read!
THE BOOK OF ELSIE
In honor of June being pride month, I'm spotlighting author Joanne Levey's Middle Grade story, THE BOOK OF ELSIE. Click the link or photo and listen to my book review. https://open.spotify.com/episode/0JMbNqPX2dMrTCJtEMQgDq?si=3bcbb4662f104057
Hi!
It's been a while. I thought that since my Bar Mitzvah is less than a week away (AHH so close!!), it's time to share an update. So much preparation went on behind the scenes for my B'Nai Mitzvah, but the finish line is up ahead.
This has been an incredible journey for me. I've connected with my
Jewish heritage in deeper ways than I could've ever imagined. But this was not just due to my Bar Mitzvah studies, but the tragedies throughout my time of practicing, certainly brought emotions that I hadn't really felt before. I told myself that becoming a Bar Mitzvah wasn't an option anymore, I knew I had to follow through.
I think I've become a better and more thoughtful person throughout my Bar Mitzvah tutoring. One of the most important parts of your Bar Mitzvah is your D'Var Torah, your speech which is meant to connect your Torah portion to the world around you today. Whilst writing my speech, a profound feeling swept over me. It was at that moment I truly realize I was becoming a man.
Thank you to everyone who's supported me not just these past few months, but my whole life. My mom and dad, you have always been there for me, I love you more than anything in the world. To those at my synagogue who have helped me reach for the stars with my Bar Mitzvah, I want to thank you as well, your support means so much. And finally, thank YOU for following along, watching my interviews and growing with me. E Train Talks would not be the same without each and every one of you!
I'm E Train and in 5 days, I am becoming a B'Nai Mitzvah. But most importantly, I will become a full-fledged adult member of the Jewish people and I am so proud!
Bar Mitzvah Update 1/25/24
I'm so proud to share that my Bar Mitzvah was incredible! I was surrounded by my family, friends, and my Jewish community. The entire synagogue was filled with so much love and support. I know I will never forget the way I felt reciting the traditional prayers and chanting my Torah portion in the language of my ancestors.
Torah Portion:
I received my Torah Portion and Haftarah! After anxiously waiting for weeks, I was given the Torah Portion I'll be reading from: Shemot Verses 3:1-4:17, and my Haftarah, Isaiah 27:6-28:13, 29:22-23.
Every "candidate" or B'Nai Mitzvah is selected special verses to chant and speak about based off their birthdate. Since my Jewish birthday is January 3rd, I will be chanting one of the most important haftarot and parashah. I'll be discussing Moses being called upon by God at the Burning Bush, and how the Israelites followed their ancestors hundreds of years after the great Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, Noah, and Moses passed.
The big day is approaching and I'm incredibly nervous, excited, and anxious. Responsibility, or Achrayut will be a word I'll be hearing quite a bit as I become a Jewish adult. Soon, I'll be beginning by Bar Mitzvah training, wear my Tallit for the first time, and before I know it, I'll be on the bimah in front of the whole congregation. My friends, family, and regulars at my synagogue. I'm so excited for the journey ahead, and I hope you'll join me along the bumpy, joyful, and meaningful ride!
Meeting with Rabbi Herman:
My parents and I met with Rabbi Herman today, and talked about what a Bar Mitzvah means to me, as well as everything I'm hoping to accomplish for my Bar Mitzvah project. We also spoke about my hobbies and our mutual interests in quiz bowl and sports! I'm really enjoying getting to know our Rabbi and I'm looking forward to studying Torah with him & preparing for my important & special day! Stay tuned!
Rabbi Herman & Me!
My journey to Jewish adulthood has included some amazing people. From Cantor Ben, to my Sunday School Teacher to my incredible Bar Mitzvah Teacher/Tutor Deborah! I'm on such a wonderful path of learning!
Look out Bimah, because here I come!
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