Moshe & Asa is about the friendship between Asa, an elderly survivor of the Holocaust, and Sacha (Moshe) a young boy. Asa and Moshe first met on Shabbat at their synagogue in Detroit, Michigan when Moshe, who was two-years-old at the time, offered to bring Asa refreshments and Asa and Moshe soon became close friends. They spend time together at their synagogue on Shabbat, and from time to time, in other contexts. Eventually, Moshe learns from his mother, about Asa’s experiences in the Holocaust. This is a beautiful example of intergenerational contact and connection which proves that age and experience do not have to be a barrier to deep friendship and is also a gentle introduction to the Holocaust. The lessons are integral, unpreachy and highly meaningful for children ages 4 – 10. It is based on a true story.
Nathan Weissler is a 2021 college graduate from Maryland, and has been reviewing for Jewish Book Council for over ten years.