Books with author Barbara Diamond Goldin

Last year, Jacob and his family had been in Russia, but this year they were in the new land of Argentina. Jacob hoped his new friend Benito would join them for the seder. Would he? Could a Passover meal here, with cowboys, chickens and horses, feel like home, too? Sydney Taylor Award-winning author Barbara Diamond Goldin gives us a compelling peak into a remarkable chapter in Jewish history in this historically-based, fictional story about a family integrating into the community of Argentina in the late 1800 s. Gina Capaldi brings it to life with spectacular and painterly artwork. A note for families is included that describes the history of how in the 1800s, some Russian Jews fled persecution, and immigrated to Argentina. There they settled on ranches and built homes and a community that combined the traditional culture of their Russian homeland with their new land s customs.

A likely contender for a Sydney Taylor notable or honor distinction--Jane Kohuth, Sydney Taylor Schmooze Raya can't be in the Purim play this year--Purim will be no fun at all! But, Raya's grandmother, Maman joon, shares her sparkly scarves and Persian traditions with her. Together they discover how to make their American Purim uniquley Persian, delicious, and fun. This children's story features Jewish-Iranian customs for celebrating Purim. Although Jews lived in the area that is now Iran for over 2500 years, the climate changed after 1979, and about two-thirds of the Jewish population of 80,000 left and settled in other countries, including the US.

The Knoodle family is about to celebrate Hanukkah. They discuss what the rabbi has told them: "It is hard to give the perfect gift, one that will be treasured forever." What did the rabbi mean? Thinking they’re to give one another a gift they’d really love to have themselves, they pick names from a hat. Bubby Sadie gives Little Yekl a pickle barrel. Mama Pearl gives Papa Jack a straw hat with yellow daisies—something she has wanted her whole life! And so it goes. No one is happy...until the rabbi arrives and with Little Yekl’s help, straightens things out. Then they all celebrate "the best Hanukkah ever!" Avi Katz’s illustrations rendered in digital media bring this endearing story about holiday miscommunication to a proper conclusion.

For the first time, a comprehensive--and celebratory--look at one of Judaism's most contemporary traditions. Noted author and storyteller Barbara Diamond Goldin gives readers real-life stories of girls and women in their own voices. From the forgotten women of history to the first women rabbis of our time, the stories will lead readers to reexamine and rediscover the role of women in Judaism.

Each spring Sarah, Max, and their children look forward to celebrating Shavuot with a mountain of delicious blintzes. But this year Sarah and Max are worried. Their pockets are empty, and with no extra money to spare, how can they afford to make a special treat like blintzes? Join Barbara Diamond Goldin's funny, big-hearted family in preparation for Shavuot, the Jewish holiday celebrating the day Moses received the Ten Commandments, and discover--as they do in a way that's sure to spark giggles--the true meaning of cooperation.

When a chief’s spoiled young daughter sets out to collect berries, she sees no reason to sing bear songs like her friends do--why should she honor the creatures of the forest? This traditional Native American tale from the Pacific Northwest offers a compelling lesson of tolerance and respect for the natural world. “A graceful and poignant retelling.”--Publishers Weekly