By
– March 26, 2012
In simple, rhyming text, Lauren Seidman provides answers to the question posed in the title of this delightful picture book that celebrates diversity. “You don’t have to look a certain way to be Jewish,” Seidman reasons, but rather it is the values one lives by that matter. Large color photographs of Jewish children from a variety of ethnic backgrounds will engage young children, and offer them a broader perspective of the Jewish community in the United States and beyond. This book holds special appeal for children who have been adopted by Jewish families, as they will likely find within its pages photographs of other Jewish children that look like them. Although intended for a pre-school audience, What Makes Someone a Jew? could also be used with older children to encourage discussions about Jewish identity. The book’s positive focus on the traditions and values shared by all Jews, and its inclusive and tolerant message, make it a worthy purchase for libraries and schools serving young children and families with young children. For ages 2 – 6.
Alison Kelly holds a B.A. in American History from Northwestern University and an MLS from UCLA. She is a librarian at Stephen S. Wise Temple Elementary School.
