The Day the Rabbi Disappeared: Jewish Holiday Tales of Magic

by Howard Schwartz, Monique Passicot (Illustrations)

Provides readers with a collection of twelve tales that tie fantasty and magic to major Jewish holidays, such as Yom Kippur, Rosh Hashanah, and Passover. By the author of Next Year in Jerusalem.

Genres: Judaism, Picture Books, Childrens

224 pages, Hardcover

First published January 1, 2000

About the author

Howard Schwartz is Professor Emeritus at the University of Missouri-St. Louis. He is a prolific writer who has published fiction, nonfiction, and poetry. In searching for themes and images for his work in various genres, he has often found his inspiration in biblical, midrashic, and kabbalistic lore. Many of his works retell ancient folktales, reflecting his belief in the importance of passing cultural lore from one generation to the next. His poetry frequently reflects the dreamlike and mysterious elements of Jewish mythology.

Reviews

[Fred Kohn · Rating 3 out of 5]

Not as much fun as The Diamond Tree: Jewish Tales from Around the World by the same author, but more informative. It would probably still work for youngish kids if they skipped the explanatory notes at the end of each tale.

[Naomi · Rating 4 out of 5]

Fantastic tales and nice connected to the holidays.