By
– August 15, 2012
Shabbat is the foundation of Jewish life. This wonderful illustrated book offers families art, music, customs, blessings, stories, reflections, and topics of conversation that will enhance Shabbat observance. The book is divided into sections that represent the different parts of Shabbat: preparations, candle lighting, Kiddush, seudah shlishit, etc. An introduction sets the mood by explaining the importance of having a day apart from the frantic activities of modern life. Each section gives readers ideas about observing the traditions and methods for incorporating them into family life. Drawings, photographs, poems and recipes enhance the text. Like Noam Sachs Zion’s previous books, A Different Night: The Family Participation Haggadah and A Different Light: The Hanukkah Celebration, this one belongs in all synagogue and school libraries as well as home collections. It will make Shabbat even more meaningful.
Barbara M. Bibel is a librarian at the Oakland Public Library in Oakland, CA; and at Congregation Netivot Shalom, Berkeley, CA.