By
– January 16, 2012
Four In One! is a collection of four previously published Ganz books, including The Gift That Grew; Yedidya and the Esrog Tree; Me and My Bubby, My Zeidy and Me; and Teasers, Twisters, Stumpers a bookful of tricky Torah-riddles. The three stories use common Hebrew and Yiddish vocabulary, such as Shabbos, Abba, and shul. Each story also teaches its own lesson, honoring your elders, caring for the environment and patience and generosity. All of the stories are illustrated by the same artist, adding familiarity to the series. They are simply, brightly illustrated, with just enough detail to make each story possible to take place in your own home. Children from more traditional, religious homes will be comfortable reading this book, and any adult with a Judaic background can help explain some of the terminology to a less-observant child. The stories hold up in either instance. Teasers, Twisters and Stumpers is divided into three sections, based on difficulty. The riddles themselves are not age-appropriate for younger children and the content is clearly geared towards children with a strong Judaic education. Topics range from Torah stories, to holidays to ritual objects. This collection is one that an elementary- aged child can use throughout their school years, for fun and a little learning along the way. Ages 5 – 12.
Rachel Rosner is the Director of the Jewish Book Festival in Rochester, NY. She also runs Jewish Family Programs for the JCC, and has worked there since 1994. She holds a degree in Early Childhood Education from Syracuse University.