Kids will surely relate to this graphic novel and its protagonist Eli, the younger brother of super-successful Adam, who is spending the summer preparing for his upcoming bar mitzvah. Eli’s friends and family members are all busy with their own tasks, leaving Eli feeling neglected. With a little “help” from a mischievous monster named Brisket, Eli spends his time messing up and getting into trouble instead of supporting his family during a very busy time.
After receiving some encouraging words from his family, Eli and Brisket step up and become true helpers instead of mischief makers. What’s more, Eli even gives his big brother the confidence he needs to lead the Torah service at his bar mitzvah.
With bright and engaging illustrations, Monster Bar Mitzvah is a book that all kids will enjoy — but it’ll be a particular hit among younger siblings.
Paula Chaiken has worked and volunteered in a variety of capacities in the Jewish world — teaching in religious school, curating at the Spertus Museum, and serving on the boards of her JCC and Temple — for more than twenty-five years. The author of I Know Grandpa (Timber Grove Press, 2015), she also runs a boutique public relations consulting firm.
