If you are looking for a bat or bar mitzvah gift, one of these might do the trick:
*”A Kid’s Catalog of Israel.” Written and illustrated by Chaya M. Burstein (288 pages, Jewish Publication Society, $16.95).
The complete guide for youths including geography, interviews with kids in Israel talking about their lives, history, how holidays are celebrated, crafts projects, recipes and more.
*”Safam Greatest Hits Vols. I and II.” (Distributed by Sounds Write Productions Inc., double cassette, $19.95, double CD, $24.95).
A remix of the Jewish band’s hits including original versions of Hebrew songs and ballads such as “My Beloved” and “Dodi Li.”
The best are the songs that tell stories of Jews from far away such as “Falasha Nevermore,” “Just Another Foreigner” and “Leaving Mother Russia.”
Particularly touching are the songs that deal with the band members personal lives including “Sons of Safam” and “Only For The Children.”
*”It’s You — A Debbie Friedman recording.” (Sounds Write Productions Inc., cassette $9.95, CD $15.95).
Most of the songs on Friedman’s newest work have not been previously recorded. Once again her voice is strong, melodious and clear.
*”Tefillin, The Inside Story.” Written by Rabbi Moshe Shlomo Emanuel (462 pages, Targum Press, distributed by Feldheim Publishers, $24.95).
Everything that you ever wanted to know about tefillin, those small black boxes, worn on the arm and head by observant Jewish men for prayer.
This is an interesting book and can be understood by readers without an extensive Jewish education. For example, several chapters explore how the four prayers included in the boxes correspond to stages of life: Purpose, past, present and future.
*”For Kids — Putting God on Your Guest List: How to Claim the Spiritual Meaning of Your Bar or Bat Mitzvah.” Written by Rabbi Jeffrey K. Salkin (100 pages, Jewish Lights Publishing, $14.95).
If you could send the gift extremely early, this would be a great one. It is a follow up to Salkin’s book for parents.
This book is a good workbook for kids from any Jewish background. It helps adolescents explore meaning, customs and traditions behind the coming-of-age rituals.