By
– March 2, 2012
Deborah Bodin Cohen’s Papa Jethro reminds readers that interfaith families are not new. In this quiet and engaging story, she avoids all sticky issues for a narrative that emphasizes love, contentment, and acceptance. The story begins with a contemporary relationship. Grandpa Nick and Rachel play games, paint and go to the park. Bodin does not dally before getting to the heart of her story. “Rachel and Grandpa Nick have just about everything in common, except she goes to synagogue and he goes to church.” Soon after spending the day playing games, Rachel asks the anticipated question, “Why do I go to synagogue and you go to church?” Grandpa Nick takes the opportunity to tell the Biblical story of Gershom, Moses’ son, and his Papa Jethro. Connections are not subtle. Papa Jethro and Gershom, like Grandpa Nick and Rachel, play games like tag and hide and seek. Both grandpas hide candy in their pockets. Most important, faith does not create conflict in their families. When Rachel asks, “Why were they different?” Grandpa responds, “Love is the answer to your question.” Even if love is not quite the answer to that particular question, it is the overriding theme of the story, one that will resonate with all interfaith families. Cohen’s prose is extra sweet for young children; Jane Dippold’s watercolors reflect the gentle text. Papa Jethro is a good choice for young children who share Rachel’s questions. Ages 4 – 8.
Sarah Aronson holds an MFA in Writing for Children and Young Adults from Vermont College. She is a full time writer and has recently published her first novel, Head Case (Roaring Brook) for young adults. Sara blogs every Thursday for the Lilith blog.