By
– December 16, 2011
A young Jewish boy fron North America compares his daily life to that of his Israeli cousin. He compares their homes, holiday rituals, and neighborhoods. For instance, on Purim, he relates how he goes to temple and dresses up in costume, but in Israel, “Tamar and her friends wear their costumes all day long, and even the bus drivers dress up!” The book uses concise language to highlight the similarities and differences between the cousins’ lives. The illustrations are bright and colorful, giving a friendly and welcoming view of Israel. My Cousin Tamar Lives in Israel compares living in a Jewish home to living in the Jewish homeland. It is a great way to introduce life in Israel to young children, especially those with relatives or friends living there. Ages 3 – 6.
Rachel Rosner is the Director of the Jewish Book Festival in Rochester, NY. She also runs Jewish Family Programs for the JCC, and has worked there since 1994. She holds a degree in Early Childhood Education from Syracuse University.
