Invite an Author

Behind Kar-Ben’s books are the clever, creative, wise, witty and wonderful people who write them. An author visit is a fun way to show kids that books and learning about Jewish culture, holidays and traditions matters. Many authors offer interactive programs with hands-on components to create memorable experiences. From board book authors who engage preschoolers and parents with rhyme and song to picture book writers who bring silliness and shenanigans to those with programs for older children on Jewish history, Kar-Ben’s authors inspire young minds to be curious and enthusiastic about Jewish life.

Search the state-by-state listings below for an author near you.

Alabama:

Alaska:

Arizona:

Terri Fields, author

Phoenix, AZ

One Good Deed

One Good Deed is a story about the power of mitzvahs bringing a neighborhood together. Following a reading, children will participate in activities and discussions that highlight the ways they can make the world a better place.

California:

Ilana R. Wieder, author

Aliso Viejo, CA

Shira the Singing Puppy

Ilana R. Wieder is the founder of Shalom Writers where she hosts online meetings with writers who are passionate about telling Jewish stories. Ilana loves to read, paint, and travel with her family. She is based in California. www.ilanarwieder.com.

Sarah Lynn Scheerger, author

Camarillo, CA

Mitzvah Pizza

After presenting this sweet story about kindness and friendship, Sarah Lynn will facilitate ways to “pay it forward” with hands-on activities. A perfect tie-in to a service-learning project.

Jamie Kiffel-Alcheh, author

Burbank, CA

Kol Hakavod: Way to Go!, Can You Hear a Coo, Coo?, A Hoopoe Says Oop!: Animals of Israel, Listen!: Israel’s All Around, Hard Hat Cat!, Matzah Craze, Rah! Rah! Mujadara

With board books for very young readers, Jamie creates energetic and imaginative programs that share the joys of Jewish life with parents and children through storytelling, props, songs and more!

Pamela Mayer, author

Foster City, CA

Peek-A-Boo Passover, Chicken Soup, Chicken Soup, Don’t Sneeze at the Wedding

Participate in rhyming fun, finger plays, and melodic tunes with Pamela!

Stacia Deutsch, author

Irvine, CA

Hot Pursuit
#1 New York Times Best Selling author presents this inspiring story from the Civil Rights Movement. Through the lens of Tikkun Olam, Hot Pursuit examines the lives of three young men and their commitment to register voters in Mississippi in 1964. Through reading and discussion, presentations will open up this important slice of history in an age-appropriate manner. (Ages 8-11)

Ann Redisch Stampler, author

Los Angeles, CA

The Cats on Ben Yehuda Street

Take a high-energy trip around the world with folklore writer Ann Redisch Stampler. Through guided activities, students learn that everyone has interesting stories to share.

Becky Laff, author

Los Angeles, CA

Joseph the Dreamer
Both an author and an illustrator, Becky’s interactive, hands-on workshop will help kids consider the link between words and pictures so they can create their own mini-books.

David Ginsburg, author

Los Angeles, CA

Menorah Under the Sea

While on a diving expedition studying sea urchins at the bottom of the frigid sea, marine biologist David Ginsburg wondered how he could bring Hanukkah to Antarctica where it was summer in December and there was no nighttime. David’s fascinating program includes a slideshow, real diving equipment, and a Q&A about his unique Hanukkah celebration under the sea.

Joanne Rocklin, author
Oakland, CA

I Say Shehechiyanu

In a lively presentation using her cat puppet and slides, Joanne Rocklin will review the prayer and its meaning, as well as take the audience through the production of the book from the idea stage and first scribbles to the final color edition. An interactive Shehechyanu board game will be introduced, designed to be played in small or large groups.

Betsy Rosenthal, author
Los Angeles, CA
When Lightnin’ Struck
Through her slide show, by reading excerpts from her middle grade novel, When Lightnin’ Struck, and by posing thought-provoking questions, Betsy reveals a lesser-known chapter in the history of the Jewish people---that of the Jews of Spain, their forced conversion and their secret practices. She also offers students a glimpse into a period of U.S. history in Texas just before the Great Depression and what life was like in small-town U.S.A. for an immigrant family from Russia.

Laura Aron Milhander, author

Placentia, CA

Not for all the Hamantaschen in Town

Reading this zany Purim retelling of the three little pigs tale sets the stage for making fun Purim crafts for a Purim parade.

Marcia Berneger, author

San Diego, CA

A Dreidel in Time: A New Spin on an Old Tale

A former teacher, Marcia offers workshops on basic story elements for levels from kindergarten through high school. Learn how to blend the elements of real life with stories from the past and fantasy.

Yale Strom, author

San Diego, CA

The Wedding That Saved a Town

Internationally renowned klezmer musician Yale Strom offers an entertaining book reading and discussion, sharing the joys of music. Honorarium plus travel.

Diane Rauchwerger, author

Sunnyvale, CA

Dinosaur series

Program for parents and children including original rhymes, songs, finger plays and book readings.

Sylvia Rouss, author

Tarzana, CA

Sammy Spider series, A Watermelon in the Sukkah

Sammy Spider craft projects, book reading and a slide show for children. Educator presentations on using Sammy Spider books in the classroom, how current events influence the author’s children’s book writing, and discussions on writing children’s books and storytelling.

Noa Nimrodi, author

Carlsbad, CA

Not So Shy

Learn about the inspiration behind the writing of Not So Shy from Israeli-American author Noa Nimrodi. Noa will read excerpts from the novel, answer questions and raise questions for discussion encouraging self-reflection, empathy and critical thinking. Her talk can be tailored to touch on any specific theme in the book (identity, belonging, family, friendship, adapting to a new culture, dealing with antisemitism). Noa will gladly incorporate writing prompts and/or art projects based on ideas and themes from the book. Feel free to reach out using the contact form at noamimrodi.com

Colorado:

Rabbi Jamie Korngold, author

Boulder, CO

Sadie and Ori series, Mazel Tov! It’s a Girl / Mazel Tov! It’s a Boy, Seder in the Desert

Rabbi Jamie shares her stories and leads a related activity that encourages children in their own Jewish spiritual adventures. For children ages 6+, Jamie offers an empowerment workshop, in which kids write and illustrate their own books.

Rabbi Joe Black, author

Denver, CO

Afikomen Mambo, Boker Tov “Singing Rabbi”

Joe Black is a congregational rabbi and an internationally renowned singer/songwriter. His dynamic music for children and adults has been shared with hundreds of Jewish communities around the world. He is available for readings and workshops as well as concerts—as a solo artist or with a full band.

Connecticut:

Janice Hechter, author
Unionville, CT
The Power of Her Paintbrush
Janice Hechter is both an author and illustrator who has exhibited her paintings throughout the country. Janice has illustrated eight picture books, including SCBWI Crystal Kite Award finalist, The Great Elephant Escape. She is based in Connecticut.

Renee Londner, author

Prospect, CT

The Missing Letters: A Dreidel Story, Stones for Grandpa

With books both serious and silly, Renee can create a dynamic program with a reading and hands-on activities.

Meryl Gordon, author

Stamford, CT

The Flower Girl Wore Celery

Together we will read about Emma, who can’t wait to be the flower girl at her cousin Hannah’s wedding. Is it true that she’ll wear a celery dress and meet a ring bear? Nothing is quite what she’s expected, as Hannah’s new spouse turns out to be another bride! Jewish wedding customs are woven into the story, making this book not just about same sex marriages but about all Jewish weddings. Children will make hats and masks to transform themselves into “flower”-girls and ring-“bears.”

Delaware:

Florida:

Audrey Ades, author

Jupiter, FL

Jason Belongs, Judah Touro Didn't Want to be Famous, The Rabbi and the Reverend

Join Audrey Ades in an engaging presentation on the secret philanthropist, Judah Touro

Emily Raij, author

Winter Park, FL

Just Say Welcome

Emily Raij has written more than 40 books for children and edited dozens of professional resources for K-12 teachers. She is a native of Chicago, where she earned her journalism degree from Northwestern University. She lives in Florida with her husband, daughter, son, and dog.

Lori Dubbin, author

Miami, FL

Perfect Match: The Story of Althea Gibson and Angela Buxton

Lori Dubbin shares the story of Althea and Angela as tennis doubles partners and life-long friends. Along with a Q&A and book signing, she also leads a related interactive memory game activity encouraging reading comprehension and empathy.

Joni Klein-Higger & Barbara Scharf, author

Tampa, FL

Barnyard Bubbe’s Hanukkah

Joni and Barbara will sing original songs, read their barnyard counting book, and provide lots of Hanukkah fun!

Georgia:

Marilyn Gootman & Gail Langer Karwoski, authors

Athens, GA

Thank You, Trees!

Share in the joy and fun of Tu B’Shevat, the birthday of the trees, by giving thanks for the many wonderful things trees give us.

Sarene Shulimson, author

Athens, GA

Lights Out Shabbat, Shabbat is special!

Sarene Shulimson’s program includes a reading of her story about a boy and his grandparents spending Shabbat together during a Georgia snowstorm. Using all their senses, children make shadow puppets, create pretty havdalah candles and sniff spices.

Hawaii:

Idaho:

Illinois:

Barb Rosenstock, author

Chicago, IL

The Littlest Mountain

Using fun, interactive props, children help the author tell the ancient story of how God chose the mountain on which to give the Ten Commandments. Which mountain does God choose? The strongest? The mightiest? The prettiest? Play with us and find out! Presentation may include crafts, video Q&A and book signing

Michael Herman, author

Chicago, IL

Under the Sabbath Lamp, The Cholent Brigade, Objects

Objects—especially ones inherited from family members who lived long ago—can tell important stories.

Join the author, an avid collector of Judaica, to learn about special lamp at the center of his story.

Susan Tarcov, author

Chicago, IL

Tyrannosaurus Tsuris, The Rabbi and His Donkey, Professor Buber and His Cats, Raisins and Almonds: A Yiddish Lullaby, Maya Prays for Rain

Enjoy the first picture book about the Jewish holiday of Shemini Atzeret, which falls at the end of the fall harvest festival of Sukkot. Learn about this holiday and its accompanying prayer for rain (in Israel), which has gained recent attention due to its ecology-based message.

Indiana:

Iowa:

Kansas:

Kentucky:

Louisiana:

Maine:

Carrie Jones, author

Bar Harbor, ME

The Spy Who Played Baseball

This New York Times bestselling author will help audiences explore and appreciate the life and contributions of unconventional spy Moe Berg. Carrie loves sharing strategies for writing with young audiences.

Tom Leigh, illustrator
Little Deer Isle, ME
Shalom Sesame series
Half-day or full-day presentations include demonstrating how to create a digital painting from a Sesame Street book from sketch to finish, as well as a demonstration of drawing various Sesame characters, and then allowing students to complete their own drawings of Grover.

Maryland:

Debbie Levy, author

Potomac, MD

The Key from Spain: Flory Jagoda and Her Music

Celebrate music and Ladino language, as Debbie reads an excerpt from the book, talks about friendships with people from different backgrounds and cultures, and teaches some Ladino words, plus Flory’s most famous song, Ocho Kandelikas.

Ellen Kahan Zager, author and illustrator

Baltimore, Maryland

And There Was Evening, And There Was Morning
Ellen Kahan Zager has served the Jewish community in many ways with her creative abilities, from designing museum installations to serving on Federation and day school boards. Ellen lives in Baltimore.

Harriet Cohen Helfand, author

Baltimore, MD

And There Was Evening, And There Was Morning

Together we will read this rhyming retelling of how God created the world, and we will have interactive fun hunting for hidden Hebrew letters that make up shapes in the book’s colorful images. As an activity, we can appreciate the Hebrew alphabet by transforming letters into a menagerie of animals.

Laura Gehl, author

Chevy Chase, MD

Koala Challah / Hare and Tortoise Race Across Israel /And Then Another Sheep Turned Up

Hare and Tortoise Race Across Israel: Great for Yom Ha’atzmaut or any time of year, this interactive program will pique children’s interest in creating their own books based on familiar stories. The program includes a hare and tortoise guessing game, as well as a discussion of how authors adapt known stories to create original books—and how kids can do the same!
And Then Another Sheep Turned Up: Laura Gehl’s high-energy program includes rhyming games, acting out a busy Passover seder with not enough chairs to go around, and—of course—counting sheep!

Deborah da Costa, author

Columbia, MD

Hanukkah Moon

Why does the moon always disappear during Hanukkah? Find out about the moon and some interesting and multicultural Hanukkah customs. The program includes a book reading and discussion.

Rabbi Deborah Bodin Cohen, author

Rockville, MD

Twist, Tumble, Triumph; An Etrog from Across the Sea; The Seventh Day, The Engineer Ari series; Nachshon, Who Was Afraid to Swim; Papa Jethro

Experience Shabbat through a book reading and art project.

Danielle Joseph, author

Potomac, MD

Sydney A. Frankel's Summer Mix-Up

Danielle is available to teach kindness workshops that tie into the theme of the book. Grades 3-6.

Ruth First Never Backed Down

This workshop integrates social studies and language arts. Danielle will talk about the need to expose readers to diverse settings, and about the need to stand up for one another. Grades 2-5.

Massachusetts:

Arnon Z. Shorr, author/Joshua Edelglass, illustrator
José and the Pirate Captain Toledano
With extensive experience teaching and working with older kids and adults, Arnon and Josh offer a range of dynamic presentations connected to their graphic novel about Jewish pirates. Events range from a simple book talk to film screenings, lectures and even a weekend-long scholar-in-residence program. For a list of program options and pricing, visit http://tinyurl.com/toledanospeakers

Joy Nelkin Wieder, author/illustrator

Lancaster, MA

The Mouse Who Loved Latkes

Joy Nelkin Wieder is an author, artist, and educator. When she's not writing or illustrating books for children, she might be painting landscapes or training service dogs. She lives outside Boston with her husband and two cats.

Melody Howard Ritt, author

Sharon, MA

Charley and Seymour's Hanukkah Miracle

Melody Howard Ritt holds a bachelor's degree from the Newhouse School at Syracuse University. Born and raised in Brooklyn, New York, she lives in Massachusetts with her husband, Jay, and their sweet kitty, Chloe. Charley and Seymour's Hanukkah Miracle is her first children's book.

Susan Lynn Meyer, author

Sherborn, MA

Matzah Belowstairs

Read this exciting Passover book aloud and then share different families’ Passover traditions. Programs include a hands-on craft—making mouse ears!—and then searching for the afikomen, just like the characters in the book!

Laya Steinberg, author

Auburndale, MA

The Best Sukkot Pumpkin Ever

Read this charming book with the author and be inspired to roll up your sleeves and do a community service project in the same spirit of the story.

Heidi Smith Hyde, author

Chestnut Hill, MA

Pavel and the Tree Army, Elan, Son of Two Peoples, Feivel’s Flying Horses, Mendel’s Accordion, Emanuel and the Hanukkah Rescue

Programs specific to each book include hands-on activities and discussion.

Jane Kohuth, author

Holliston, MA

Who’s Got the Etrog?

After an author-led read-aloud, Jane will present a program that can be focused depending on audience needs to include hands-on activities like crafts or walking students through the writing process. Learn about the Sukkot holiday ritual of the lulav and etrog, the Abayudaya people and Jewish diversity, or the process of writing a book. Preschool programs will include Sukkot-themed crafts and about how to shake (and share!) the lulav and etrog just like the animals in the story!

Lesléa Newman, author

Holyoke, MA

Baby's Blessings, Hanukkah Delight!, My Name is Aviva

Like Aviva, the star of Lesléa Newman’s children book, My Name is Aviva, everyone’s name has a story. After reading My Name is Aviva, Lesléa Newman will lead a writing exercise, during which each child will write a simple poem about his or her name.

Susan Axe-Bronk, author

Newton, MA

The Vanishing Gourds

Solve the mystery of the missing gourds and uncover the mischief of some sneaky squirrels! Susan Axe-Bronk reads her suspenseful ecofriendly Sukkot tale. Presentation can include crafting cool sukkah decorations.

Jane Sutton, author

Lexington, MA

Zayde Babysits before Passover, Paulie’s Passover Predicament, Esther’s Hanukkah Disaster

Join Jane Sutton to explore the real meanings of holidays by reading her hilarious books and participating in crafting and silly games.

Amy Meltzer, author

Northampton, MA

The Shabbat Princess, A Mezuzah on the Door

Boys and girls are invited to come dressed as princes and princesses when Amy Meltzer presents her book The Shabbat Princess. Her presentation includes a book reading, Shabbat-related art project, and a costume parade!

Jacqueline Dembar Greene, author

Wayland, MA

Walk Till You Disappear, Speak Up, Tommy!, The Secret Shofar of Barcelona

Jacqueline Dembar Greene, author of American Girl series Rebecca Rubin, reads her story about a bomb sniffing dog from Israel, and explores the lesson of what it’s like to be a new student in a new country, when you are just learning to speak the language. Learn the Hebrew words used to train the dog in the story.

Esty Schachter, author

Newton, MA

Pickled Watermelon

Esty will read from her tween-pleasing novel about eleven-year-old Molly, who just wants to spend the summer with her friends at camp, but reluctantly heads to Israel to visit family she barely knows instead. Then Esty can lead an audience in an activity, from sharing ideas to even writing about their own life experiences.

Michigan:

Anita Pazner, author

Detroit area, MI

The Topsy-Turvy Bus

The Topsy-Turvy Bus is an alternative-energy classroom on wheels. It's a great conversation starter for Earth Day, recycling month, or any time you want to talk about sustainability with a diverse case of character. Anita's presentations focus on the world's current pollution problems, but they also dive into the past. The them of Tikkun Olam runs through the book, giving kids the power to change the world. The best part of the book is that it's based on an actual bus that can accompany Anita on speaking engagements for an additional fee.

Lisa Rose, author

Detroit, MI

Shmulik Paints the Town, The Singer and the Scientist

High-energy fun and creativity abound when Lisa Rose and her pup puppet visit and share her book. A community-building art project can also be included.

Minnesota:

Linda Glaser, author
Duluth, MN
Way Too Many Latkes, Hannah’s Way
Since she was a child, Linda dreamed of becoming a children’s book writer. She enjoys demystifying the writing process and making writing fun for children, bringing “show-and-tell” materials such as a rough draft (or “sloppy copy”), revisions, a book contract, editor’s comments, an uncut press sheet, color separation sheets, and her rejections (very popular with all kids!). She, of course, reads a book to the class and tells the story of how it came to be!

Joni Sussman, former publisher Kar-Ben Publishing

Minneapolis, MN

Invite a children’s book publisher to your organization, book fair or conference to speak about current trends in Jewish children’s books, the writing and marketing of Jewish children’s books, or other book-related topics. An experienced presenter, she can tailor her Jewish children’s book related talk or workshop to your programming needs. (Adults)

Judy Freeman, author

Minneapolis, MN

L’Dor Vador: A Keepsake Coloring Book

Children and adults can join Judy for intergenerational coloring projects. A professional artist specializing in ketubahs, Judy can create a special piece for your community to color in together and display with pride.

Mississippi:

Missouri:

Montana:

Nebraska:

Nevada:

New Hampshire:

New Jersey:

Karen Rostoker-Gruber, author

Branchburg, NJ

Happy Birthday, Trees!

Karen Rostoker-Gruber's presentations are extra-special as she's also a ventriloquist! She takes the students through each step of her process - from sticky notes at 3am all the way to the printed book. Maria, her life-sized puppet, is her funny sidekick. Karen also does storytimes.

Ann Malaspina, author

Ridgewood, NJ

A Scarf for Keiko

Ann will share how she gets her ideas and writes her books, plus present fun activities like “verb hunts” and "walking in a character's shoes." In addition, a knitting activity will engage readers to think about themes from A Scarf for Keiko.

Rachelle Burk, author

East Brunswick, NJ

The Best Four Questions

Curiosity, creativity, and imagination in the story creation process are at the core of Rachelle’s presentations for elementary and preschool audiences. Storytelling visits include interactive dramatics, story board, masks, puppets, and other props.

Kerry Olitzky, author

North Brunswick, NJ

The Right Blessing; Twist, Tumble Triumph; An Etrog from Across the Sea; Where’s the Potty on this Ark?

Rabbi Kerry Olitzky led Big Tent Judaism and has taught at Hebrew Union College. A leader in the development of innovative Jewish education, he is the author of nearly one hundred books including Sydney Taylor Award Winner, An Etrog from Across the Sea.

Karen Ostrove, author

Elizabeth, NJ

Rise & Shine: A Challah-Day Tale, Only Nine Chairs, Fins and Scales

An author and illustrator, puppeteer and ventriloquist, Karen Ostrove inspires children to explore the creative processes of writing and drawing through hands-on activities.

Andria Warmflash Rosenbaum, author

Fair Lawn, NJ

Meg Goldberg On Parade, A Grandma Like Yours/A Grandpa Like Yours

A book reading, body movement group game and craft activity. (Preschool-Kindergarten)

Meg Wiviott, author

Morristown, NJ

Benno and the Night of Broken Glass

After gentle assessment of what the children know about the Holocaust, Meg gives a brief introduction to the events of Kristallnacht, followed by a short presentation on why she decided to write the Benno story, which is inspired by her meeting a survivor of Kristallnacht. Meg reads the story of Benno and leads a discussion focusing on the theme of the loss of friendship and tolerance for others. Each child will create a collage out of colored paper pieces mimicking the shattered glass of Kristallnacht, using the art to express the feelings of the characters in the story as well as their own feelings. (Ages 8 and up)

Ruchama King Feuerman, author

Passaic, NJ

The Mountain Jews and the Mirror

All Jews arrived from somewhere, and not all of them came from Europe. Join author Ruchama King Feuerman, whose family lived in Morocco for centuries, to learn about the Jews of North Africa in a book reading and discussion.

Barbara Krasner, author

Somerset, NJ

Goldie Takes a Stand: Golda Meir’s First Crusade, 37 Days at Sea: Aboard the M.S. St. Louis, 1939

Barbara Krasner’s program What Would Goldie Do? inspires children to dream big and to help their communities. The program includes a reading of her story about Golda Meir’s first crusade as a fourth grader in Milwaukee, raising money to help her classmates buy textbooks. Children then engage in a game, What Would Goldie Do?, to demonstrate how one kind gesture can make a big difference.

Ann Koffsky, author

West Hempstead, NJ

Shabbat Shalom, Hey!

Using illustrations from her more than 30 published books as a starting point, Ann’s lively, interactive program describes the process of writing and illustration from the first word, to first sketch, to the final book. It includes a sketching demonstration, a grab bag of props and lots of other fun surprises!

New Mexico:

New York:

Linda Elovitz Marshall, author

Albany, NY

Talia series, Sh…Sh…Shabbat, The Mitzvah Magician, Grandma Rose’s Magic, Shalom Bayit: A Peaceful Home

Using objects like real vegetables and magic wands to bring her books to life, Linda Marshall reads her stories while she interacts with kids, explaining how she plays with words when she writes her books. Kids will explore the fun, inventive side of writing books with experiences from their own lives!

Shanna Silva, author

Bellmore, NY

Passover Scavenger Hunt

A dynamic presentation includes a reading and an art activity when children make their own puzzles, just like the story’s main character.

Ellen Bari, author

Brooklyn, NY

Jumping Jenny, Does Your Dog Speak Hebrew? A Book of Animal Sounds

A high energy and fun program–kids will be hopping about tikkun olam! Kids select their favorite hobby: jump roping, ball bouncing, singing, coloring, whatever–and use that interest to make the world a better place. Create a Take-Home Tikkun Olam newspaper, like in the book.

Lela Nargi, author

Brooklyn, NY

A Heart Just Like My Mother’s

After presenting this lovely story about how a mother and daughter share the urge to make the world a better place, audiences will participate in a related tzedekah activity that encourages children to know themselves and to do good in the world.

Rahel Musleah, author

Great Neck, NY

Apples & Pomegranates: A Rosh Hashanah Seder

Children and adults learn about the traditions, songs, customs, history and stories of the Sephardic, Mizrahi and Oriental communities in a multi-media format. “Outside-the-box” holiday celebrations include creating a Baghdadi-Indian Passover seder plate; ushering in the New Year with a Rosh Hashanah “seder;” taking a Purim trip back to the tombs of Esther and Mordechai in Persia; and welcoming Hanukkah with the Tunisian “Hag Habanot”: Festival of Daughters. $500 plus travel.

Durga Yael Bernhard, illlustrator

Hudson Valley, NY

Green Bible Stories for Children

Durga Bernhard helps children make Bible stories personally meaningful through writing and crafting. Create a story scroll or make stick puppets of your favorite characters, build a paper ark and your own cutout animals, write and illustrate poems, or make group collages that “talk” to the sun.

Chris Nicola, author

New York, NY

The Secret of Priest’s Grotto: A Holocaust Survival Story

This remarkable author—a globetrotting caver, shares the story of how he uncovered the secret of the Stermer family, who survived the Holocaust by hiding in the labyrinth of Ukrainian caves known as Priest’s Grotto. Chris can wear or bring his caving equipment! (Ages 10+)

Krystyna Poray Goddu, author

New York, NY

An Unlikely Ballerina

A veteran author who writes about interesting people and their histories, Krystyna will discuss her research process for the book. After a reading, students will be led through exercises to discover the most interesting parts of their own amazing biographies.

Leah Rachel Berkowitz, author

Poughkeepsie, NY

The World Needs Beautiful Things

Rabbi Leah Rachel Berkowitz is experienced at presenting to all ages, and can provide Shabbat-in-Residence programming for synagogues. Young audiences will create a story about a biblical character, like in The World Needs Beautiful Things, using writing, bibliodrama, photography or crafting.

Deborah Blumenthal, author

New York, NY

Frank, Who Liked to Build: The Architecture of Frank Gehry

After reading her book about Frank Gehry, one of the most extraordinary architects in the world, Deborah will talk about the creative process and how artists get their ideas, with specifics on how picture books are put together. Depending on the age of the group, she may do a guided art project to encourage kids to make their own Gehry-inspired buildings.

North Carolina:

Ellen Fischer, author

Greensboro, NC

Shalom Sesame series, Latke, the Lucky Dog

Using learning games to create an interactive program, Ellen Fischer gets kids excited about reading and learning about holidays.

Jason Schachter Mckinney, author

Winston Salem, NC

Jason Belongs
Jason S. McKinney is a talented singer, instrumentalist, actor, composer, author, and advocate for the arts. He has performed at the White House, The Kennedy Center, Preservation Hall in New Orleans, and many famous opera houses.

Tilda Balsley, author

Reidsville, NC
Shalom Sesame series, Maccabee!, Let My People Go!, ABC Hanukkah Hunt, ABC Passover Hunt, Eight is Great, Lotsa Matzah, Oh No, Jonah!, The Queen Who Saved Her People

Maccabee: Tilda leads children in a vigorous retelling of the Hanukkah story with rhythm and rhyme that match the excitement of bold illustrations. A repeated theme allows listeners to participate and adds depth of meaning to the age old story. In conjunction with a student program, Tilda Balsley can include an afterschool workshop for teachers. Based on fluency research, this session shows teachers how to use rhyme and readers’ theater with students to encourage enthusiastic rereading.

North Dakota:

Ohio:

Allison & Wayne Marks, authors

Akron, OH

Og’s Ark, The Art Lesson

Prolific husband and wife duo bring the excitement of story crafting and word play to your group.

Stacy Nockowitz, author

Columbus, OH

The Prince of Steel Pier

In Stacy's interactive presentations for kids ages 8-16, she shares how her Jewish roots influence her writing process and gets involved with fun activities like Reader's Theater and art projects. Stacy also leads creative writing workshops that allow children to see how they can develop stories from the place where memory and imagination intersect.

Brian P. Cleary, author

Cleveland, OH

Eight Wild Nights: A Family Hanukkah Tale

Entertaining book reading with question- and-answer teaches children to play with words, anagrams and palindromes, and how to write short verse. (Grades PreK-6) $590/half-day, $850/full-day plus travel.

Fawzia Gilani-Williams, author

Al Ain, United Arab Emirates; Oberlin, OH

Yaffa and Fatima, Shalom, Salaam, The Button Box

Read together and discover the message of peace and being a good neighbor. After reading, we can discuss how we actually can all work together to make the world a better place, as well as do an activity that helps others to reinforce these values.

J. Patrick Lewis, author

Westerville, OH

The Wren and the Sparrow

Getting children excited about the wonders of poetry is the reason J. Patrick Lewis visits schools in the first place. Poetry that is fun and respects the music of the written word. Poems about animals, nature, people, holidays, everything under the sun - including limericks, haiku, riddles, shape poems, narrative poems, song lyrics and nonsense verse. $2,200/day+ travel, includes 4 presentations.

Linda Leopold Strauss, author

Wyoming, OH

A Different Kind of Passover

Linda often visit schools and libraries to make presentations to young people ranging in age from pre-schoolers to high school seniors. Her speaking style is informal and encourages creative give and take with students.

Oklahoma:

Oregon:

Eric A. Kimmel, author
Portland, OR
Who Will Rule the Trees; The Three Latkes; Nicanor's Gate; The Scarlett and Sam series; Gabriel's Horn; Joseph and the Sabbath Fish
Eric A. Kimmel is the author of the beloved holiday classics Hanukkah Bear and Hershel and the Hanukkah Goblins as well as the popular Scarlett and Sam series. His books have received numerous national and state awards including the 1990 Caldecott Honor Medal, the Sydney Taylor Lifetime Achievement Award, and most recently the Regina Medal, awarded by the Catholic Library Association for his body of work.

April Patten, author
Portland, OR
Rules for Liars
April Patten is a New York Times best-selling thriller author of more than twenty-five novels for teens and adults. She is based in Portland, Oregon.

Robert Rubinstein, author
Eugene, OR
Zishe the Strongman
Learn to tell tales, and techniques to teach communication and storytelling skills to young people. Robert Rubinstein, professional teller, teacher, and director of the nationally known Roosevelt Middle School Troupe of Tellers, will help you build skills and enhance curriculum. (Ages 7 and up)

Pennsylvania:

Tamar Fox, author

Philadelphia, PA

No Baths at Camp

Is there any other place you would rather be right now than summer camp? Enjoy an interactive session, complete with an entertaining reading of the book, games and hands-on activities, all about the joys of summer camp

Judy Press, author

Pittsburgh, PA

Bubbe’s Got the Beat, Pinky Bloom series

An experienced art educator and award-winning author of children’s art activity books, Judy Press stimulates parents and children alike. Along with a reading, Judy will encourage children’s creativity through making original, age-appropriate arts and crafts.

Rhode Island:

Kelly Easton Ruben, author

A Place for Elijah

Read together, talk about creativity, and practice imagining and telling stories.

Susan S. Novich, author

Providence, RI (Also available to book in New York City and Houston, TX )

Hello, Hanukkah!
Along with her puppets Badger and Hoopoe, Susan takes children on a fun-filled reading adventure that introduces Hanukkah traditions, colors and numbers. Children actively participate as they help to count and identify candle colors as Badger “lights” the hanukkiah with the white shamash and then chants a blessing over the candles. Afterwards, Susan demonstrates how to draw Badger and Hoopoe with simple shapes and lines, and provides instructions for children to make their own Badger and Hoopoe finger puppets.

South Carolina:

South Dakota:

Tennessee:

Edie Stoltz Zolkower, author
Nashville, TN
It’s Tu B’Shevat, Too Many Cooks: A Passover Parable

Discussion and book reading on what trees do for us and what we can do for trees. Each child will plant a seedling in a cup and take home to re-plant in their yard. Children will be encouraged to take a picture of their tree every year to send to Edie!

Texas:

Nancy Churnin, author

Plano, TX

Counting on Shabbat; Irving Berlin: The Immigrant Boy Who Made America Sing; Martin & Anne: The Kindred Spirits of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and Anne Frank, A Queen to the Rescue: The Story of Henrietta Szold, Founder of Hadassah

Nancy Churnin, winner of the National Jewish Book Award, a Sydney Taylor Honor and two Sydney Taylor Notables, offers presentations for all ages. Her interactive presentation of her board book, Counting on Shabbat, gives toddlers and preschoolers an opportunity to act out this short, rhyming story about Shabbat, counting and kindness and encourages little ones to create pictures of cheer for our seniors as the children in the book do. Her Irving Berlin book presentation includes Berlin singalongs for elementary school. Her presentations of Martin & Anne and A Queen to the Rescue offer opportunities for thoughtful discussions with upper elementary and middle grade students about how our words and actions, like those of Dr. King, Anne Frank and Hadassah founder Henrietta Szold, can help heal the world.

Utah:

Vermont:

Virginia:

Jacqueline Jules, author

Arlington, VA

Drop by Drop, Abraham’s Search for God, Benjamin and the Silver Goblet, Sarah Laughs, Miriam in the Desert, Going on a Hametz Hunt, Once Upon a Shabbos, Ziz series, Happy Hanukkah Lights, What a Way to Start a New Year!: A Rosh Hashanah Story

Interactive storytime with songs, finger plays, and flannel board activities. A Bible stories Powerpoint presentation is available for religious school assemblies. Jacqueline Jules is a librarian and teacher who can tailor presentations to individual needs.

Tammar Stein, author

Arlington, VA

The Six-Day Hero, Beni's War

YA author Tammar Stein loves talking about her books, writing and what makes great literature. Learn about why Tammar decided to write The Six-Day Hero and Beni's War, and talk about heroes in your life.

Jennifer Elvgren, author

Barboursville, VA

The Edelweiss Pirates, The Whispering Town

Suitable in a school library and public library setting, Jennifer describes modern Europe and then jumps back in time to Nazi-occupied Europe. I then discuss how I got the ideas for my books, and walk the students through the process of making a book from idea to the bookstore shelf.

Bill and Ruth Goldeen, authors
Charlottesville, VA

Alef-Bet Yoga for Kids
A fun interactive session led by experienced kids’ yoga instructors, in which children learn to “be” the Hebrew alphabet letters through yoga poses.

Washington:

Jo Gershman, author/illustrator

Seattle, WA

A Wild, Wild Hanukkah

How does a children's book leap from an author's mind onto the page? Jo offers a story time or a presentation that invites kids on a tour behind the scenes of a picture book's creation. In the presentation, she passes around art sample as students explore original scribbles and sketches, discussing together what makes a particular drawing work. What could be changed or strengthened in another, and why do we have to reject one, even if we like it best? Participants discover their own creative perspective inside the story! Jo tailors her presentation to multiple ages providing inspiration for budding author/illustrators. A hands-on art project can be added, learning a step-by-step animal drawing (character from the book) of a crocodile, whose long back makes a perfect—if unusual—Hanukkah menorah.

Washington, D.C.:

Carolivia Herron, author

Always an Olivia

Carolivia Herron, an African American writer (Nappy Hair) who grew up in Baptist tradition, spent forty years journeying toward her conversion to Judaism. One Shabbat, her father’s surprising recognition of the Hebrew candle blessing led Carolivia to recall this story of Jewish ancestry told by her Great Grandmother Olivia Smith. about her family’s ancestral Sephardic journey — from Spain, Portugal, and Italy, to Barbary Pirates, Tripoli, Libya, and the GeeChees on the Georgia Sea Islands.

Pamela Ehrenberg, author

The See-You-Soon Spice Box

Pamela Ehrenberg's previous picture books include Queen of the Hanukkah Dosas and Planting Parsley. Her middle-grade novel, Detour Ahead was a National Jewish Book Award finalist. She and her children live in Washington, D.C.

Rabbi Mindy Avra Portnoy, author
A Tale of Two Seders, Matzah Ball, Where Do People Go When They Die?

Kids Program: Book reading, followed by a conversation with children about our families and the different ways we celebrate holidays at home. This program could be combined with an adult program in family education context. Adult Program: Book reading, followed by a presentation and discussion for parents, clergy, and educators about new family configurations (divorce, single parent, two moms and two dads, intermarried) in the Jewish community, and how rituals and lifecycle events can help our children and support their families. No fee in local area. Fee plus travel outside area.

West Virginia:

Wisconsin:

Deborah Lakritz, author

Milwaukee, WI

Say Hello, Lily, Joey and the Giant Box

Deborah Lakritz, author, social worker, and mother of five, presents a unique program for grandparents and grandchildren. Based on her book Say Hello Lily, about a shy little girl who visits a nursing and makes friends with its residents, Deborah will have kids and grandparents interacting with one another, sharing stories about birthdays past and present, culminating in a very special birthday party.

Wyoming:

Canada:

Monique Polak, author

Montreal, Quebec

Room for One More

Monique will share with students how she met a woman in Montreal whose own family story inspired this one. Monique will share how to go about interviewing people and then transforming the interviews into fictional stories.

Cary Fagan, author

Toronto, Ontario

Mr. Tempkin Climbs a Tree

The idea that everybody has a story to tell is central to Cary Fagan’s presentation. Reading, talking and singing help young audiences see themselves as powerful storytellers.

Karen Fisman, author

Toronto, ON

Nonna’s Hanukkah Surprise

When Rachel misplaces her special hanukkiah, Nonna saves the day with a fabulous homemade replacement. Following a reading, children will use their imaginations to create their own hanukkiahs out of regular household objects.

Elisabeth Kushner, author

Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada

The Purim Superhero

In a storytelling session, author Elisabeth Kushner will introduce young readers to the superhero she created: Nate the Super Alien! Children will have an opportunity to create and share their own superhero identities.

Lesley Simpson, author

Toronto, Ontario, Canada

Yuvi’s Candy Tree, The Shabbat Box
Yuvi’s Candy Tree, based on the true story of a little girl and her grandmother who make their way from Ethiopia to Israel, is exciting and amazing! Author Lesley Simpson reads the story and then offers children the opportunity to create their own candy trees and tell their own stories about growing up.