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Many Jewish families will gather this week — from sundown on Wednesday, Oct. 2 to sundown on Friday, Oct. 4 — to celebrate Rosh Hashanah, the Jewish New Year. According to the Jewish calendar, it’s the start of 5785. And no, it’s not celebrated with sparkly decorations and a ball drop in Times Square, but with a snack of apples and honey, the blowing of the shofar, and services at synagogue.
If you’re unfamiliar with these traditions, the Jewish people dip apples in honey on Rosh Hashanah in the hopes of having a sweet new year. Pomegranates are another common fruit to eat, with the seeds representing the number of good deeds to be done in the coming year. And while you may be familiar with most challah, a traditional Jewish bread that is braided into a long loaf, for Rosh Hashanah, it is made in a circle to represent the circle of life.
The blowing of the shofar — an instrument made from a ram’s horn that is bugle-esque — can be thought of in lots of ways. Some people take it to be a “wake-up call” or “alarm clock” (that thing is loud!) saying the new year has started and it’s time to reflect on the past year.
These are just some of the customs to ring in the Jewish New Year. And while the adults read from the Torah (a biblical scroll) and a siddur (the prayer book), these fun books for kids can get them into the holiday spirit, making this High Holiday something to really embrace.
Sammy Spider’s First Rosh Hashanah
There is a whole series of Sammy Spider books! This bestselling Rosh Hashanah story follows Sammy as he decides he would rather try some honey than spin webs.
Happy ‘Roo Year: It’s Rosh Hashanah!
This rhyming board book follows a silly kangaroo family as they celebrate the new year “down under” in Australia.
I’m Sorry, Grover: A Rosh Hashanah Tale
A familiar face is always a good way to get kids excited about a book. That’s why we love this one about a beloved Sesame Street character and an important lesson about apologies.
I Spy Rosh Hashanah & Yom Kippur Book For Kids
In this “I Spy” book, kids will have to identify objects that start with whatever letter is on that page. It also has objects that have to do with Yom Kippur, the next High Holiday for the Jewish community.
Not So Fast, Max: A Rosh Hashanah Visit With Grandma
Max and Emily join their savta (grandma) on a trip to the apple orchard. They have some fun bonding moments and pick fruit for the kid-friendly recipes included in the book.
Rosh Hashanah Coloring and Activity Book for Kids
What kid can say no to an activity book? This one includes coloring pages, puzzles, and subtle nods to the major holiday.
Measuring a Year: A Rosh Hashanah Story
Are you feeling the urge to break out in song? Cuz … same! Measuring a Year: A Rosh Hashanah Story encourages kids to think back on the past 365 days and think about the special memories that make a year.
Apple Days: A Rosh Hashanah Story
Katy always looks forward to making applesauce with her mom for Rosh Hashanah. Everything changes this year when her mom has to leave, but luckily Katy is surrounded by loved ones who help her with her favorite tradition.
Engineer Ari and the Rosh Hashanah Ride
This book is based on a historic train ride across Israel. In it, Ari collects goodies and learns lessons as he heads to Jerusalem to ring in the new year.
Ruby Celebrates! The Rosh Hashanah Recipe
Ruby and her family go overboard while apple-picking for the new year. Now Ruby and her cousins have to figure out what to do with all the extra fruit.
Rosh Hashanah with Uncle Max
A fun uncle (AKA a “funcle”) is at the center of this tale about the holiday’s classic traditions.
Something New for Rosh Hashanah
Just like with the secular new year, Rosh Hashanah can be a time for resolutions. Becca doesn’t like to try new foods, but when her family decides to try new looks and hobbies, the little girl decides to give a new food a chance.
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