The Baseball Haggadah: A Festival of Freedom and Springtime in 15 Innings

by Sharon G. Forman, Lisa J Teitelbaum (Illustrator), Sharon G Forman

Why is this night different from all other nights of the year; and what does the game of baseball have to do with the Festival of Passover and the seder? Incorporating images and language from another springtime ritual, this baseball themed Passover Haggadah retells the story of the Israelites' Exodus from slavery in Egypt with faithfulness to the contours of a traditional seder. By holding up the Exodus next to the concept of a beloved national pastime, connections are made that cast light on the Passover story in new and unexpected patterns. This enchanting Haggadah with its vivid illustrations will capture the imagination of seder participants of all ages (from little leaguers to adults). By infusing an old ritual with thought provoking readings and new insights, this Haggadah may stand alone as the sole text at a religious school model seder or can be used as a supplementary Haggadah in traditional or liberal homes. Values taught at the seder, such as love of freedom, kindness to strangers, and concern for others, are celebrated in this user friendly text with particular sensitivity to gender equality and transliteration for non-Hebrew readers. With Moses as the team captain for the Israelites and Pharaoh heading up the Taskmasters, the lineups struggle for dominance. God throws the ultimate "splitter," making way for the Israelites to cross the Sea of Reeds. Each participant takes a turn up at bat as a reader. There is a 7th Inning Stretch, during which the children can go to the door to search for and welcome the presence of Elijah. Ultimately, there is praise and joy and celebration. Freedom has been won. The Israelites, have made it safely home, and springtime is renewed on a field of green.

54 pages, Paperback

First published February 12, 2015

Reviews

[Reyna Gentin · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved it! Having seen a review copy before this went to press, I highly recommend this Haggadah for any family with baseball loving children hoping to engage the kids in the ancient ritual of seder in a different way. The text includes every major element of the seder, so one can use this Haggadah while others may be using a more standard form at the table. In employing the jargon and rules of a baseball game, the Haggadah draws in the participants through the more familiar, while always emphasizing the theme of Freedom that is the core of the Passover story. The illustrations are beautiful and add color and dimension to the words. Don't be surprised if some of the adults would also like to "Play Ball!" at the table; you may want to get a few extra copies!

[Martin · Rating 4 out of 5]

Fun, delightful, and sure to engage young baseball fans, this haggadah isn't as much of a (7th inning) stretch as you might have figured. Positive messaging is laced throughout, and of course, it's all about teamwork, and being a good, um, sport. Take me out to this ball game. Ah har har har.