Nachshon, Who Was Afraid to Swim: A Passover Story

by Deborah Bodin Cohen, Jago (Illustrator)

For generations Nachshon s family has been enslaved by the Egyptian Pharaoh. Nachshon is afraid it will be his destiny too. Then Moses confronts the fearsome Pharaoh, and Nachshon s dream of freedom begins to come true. But soon he has to overcome his own special fear. The story of the brave boy who was the first to jump into the sea will inspire young and old alike.

Genres: Jewish, Childrens, Holiday, Judaism, Picture Books, Historical Fiction

32 pages, Hardcover

First published February 1, 2008

Reviews

[Margaret Klein · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the story of Nachson Ben Ammindav, who was the first person to step into the Sea of Reeds. The midrash teaches first his toe, then all the way up to his nostrils. His courage and his faith is what caused the sea to part. This children's version is great for a Tot Shabbat or even with adults, many of whom have never heard of Nachson. This version is very relatable, since we all have fears.

Additional review: This is still a great book. Nachshon in this context is midrashic. For Bible students who are literalists, they won't find this in the Torah. But there are plenty of stories in the midrash. How far did he wade? First his toe, then up to his chin, then to his nostrils. Only then did the waters part. A story of G-d helps those who help themselves. What was Moses's role. Good questions about leadership, especially in these complicated times. Adults or kids. Still good.

[Apzmarshl · Rating 4 out of 5]

This story was perfectly timed for Come Follow Me and for our introduction to Egypt for our April's homeschool rotation. Great pictures and a condensed story of the Children of Israel's captivity and freedom.

[Shoshanna · Rating 3 out of 5]

A picture book re telling of the story of Nachshon, the first Israelite to walk into the Sea of Reeds. This book makes more of his character and history and how brave he is, with water being his only fear. Very sweet and very good.

[Beverlee Jobrack · Rating 4 out of 5]

A good Passover story about facing your fears.

[Sylvie Gold · Rating 4 out of 5]

illustrated by Jago

[Elizabeth · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a sweet and cute story about overcoming your fears set within the story of Exodus and based on biblical and Midrashic stories. Great to read during Passover! Chag Sameach!

[char · Rating 5 out of 5]

A classic for this week's parsha!

[Barbara Lovejoy · Rating 5 out of 5]

LOVE this book! I did not know about this story. I especially enjoyed Jago's illustrations. I want to find more books that he has illustrated.

[Robin Leach · Rating 5 out of 5]

Illustrations are lovely.

[Molly · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a nice story about a brave Isrealite who had only one fear and that was water. This takes place while moses is leading people out under gods will. Would be a nice read aloud about faith and moses. Ages 5+

[Amy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wonderful story about the power of courage.