Many Orthodox Jewish adults know the fable of the twins debating the essence of reality in their mother’s womb. One argues that the birth process is the gateway to death, the other that it precedes a new form of existence. It is as much a parable about this worldly life as it is about next worldly life. The concepts, however, are beyond the grasp of young readers. Rabbi Brody remedies the situation so that little children can be soothed about the nature and purpose of perplexing situations, too. The debate between the superficial Esau-like mind-set and the disciplined, calm sense of purpose that is the heritage of Yaakov can now be sounded out, simple syllable by simple syllable, among the young offspring of Jewish families.
Two little worms living in an apple face an existential concern when their home begins to rock. Quick thinking on both their parts results in the charming story about how they, and the man who plucked the fruit for a snack, look at reality. Readers will find that the lilting meter of the story’s text moves things along with a smile.
A little boy in the story is on hand to keep things real for little readers, and to evoke the life lesson that “No worry is needed when we continue to trust, for smart little worms, trust is a must!” The story concludes with a lesson for the ages: “A most valuable lesson to keep in mind/Is the One Who created us never leaves anyone behind. He’s always behind all the good and the (seemingly) bad/He takes care of our needs/He’s our loving Dad/Not the one who’s married to mother/The One all around us – we can’t see Him, but we know there’s no other.”
Rebecca Shapiro’s captivating, colorful illustrations teach young eyes and hearts with their obvious narrative. This first entry in the debuting Little Lazer series of emunah educational materials is a must-have for anyone who loves little ones, and is a lap-sized charmer for the whole family, classroom and pediatrician’s office.
Yocheved Golani is the author of It’s MY Crisis! And I’ll Cry if I Need To: A Life for Helping You to Dry Your Tears and Cope with a Medical Challenge (Booklocker.com)
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