Shalom Sesame

Shalom Sesame for Chanukah

Available Oct. 14, SISU is re-releasing the 12 episodes of the 2010-11 season of Shalom Sesame in a new six-DVD thin-pack gift box. Included in the re-release is a bonus DVD featuring two episodes from the classic Shalom Sesame series, “Jerusalem” and “People of Israel” (originally released in the early 1990s). In addition, the DVD set includes a free 30-day trial download of the first episode.

Join lovable, furry Grover and celebrity host Anneliese van der Pol (That’s So Raven, Broadway’s Beauty and the Beast) as they travel to Israel in this 12-part award-winning series co-produced by Sesame Workshop, the nonprofit organization behind Sesame Street, and Israel’s Channel HOP! Designed to help bring the vitality of Jewish culture and tradition, as well as the diversity of Israeli life, to American children and their families, each 30-minute, live-action and animated DVD focuses on storylines drawn from Jewish cultural traditions, highlighting lessons on Hebrew letters and words, unique sites in Israel and Jewish values.

In addition to van der Pol, the series features guest appearances by top name talent, including Jake Gyllenhaal, Debra Messing, Matisyahu, Eva Longoria, Christina Applegate, Greg Kinnear, Debi Mazar and others. The programs’ chronological order mirrors the Jewish calendar, beginning with an introduction to Israel and Hebrew, and ending with a program on mitzvot and a concluding trip to Israel.

Each title in the set contains two episodes and includes extra video segments. Shalom Sesame has been awarded a CINE Golden Eagle Award (2011), a Hugo Television Award Certificate of Merit (2011) and a Dr. Toy Best Pick Award (2010). Learn more about Shalom Sesame at shalomsesame.org, view previews and clips on youtube.com/shalomsesame and visit facebook.com/ShalomSesame. To order DVDs, visit sisuent.com.

Waldman Library’s holiday books for kids

Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur are nearly here! A memorable way to include some special inspiration for you and your children is to drop into the Isaac Waldman Jewish Public Library, where you’ll find a great variety of books perfect for both celebrating both of the High Holidays. Here are just a few of the new children’s books that you can find on loan.

What a Way to Start a New Year! A Rosh Hashanah Story. The complexities of both family and relating to a new community are thoughtfully explored in story of Dina and her family moving to a new city via the great value and resilience of tradition renewed in the High Holidays. Dina’s family life is expressively and colorfully illustrated by Judy Stead.

I’m Sorry Grover: A Rosh Hashanah Tale. Part of the enduring Shalom Sesame series, this is a delightful introduction to all the important aspects of Rosh Hashanah. Dear old Grover tells the funny adventure of Brosh, who has misplaced his favorite blue, woolly hat. In his search, his doubts are resolved and confidence and New Year happiness restored.

Apple Days: A Rosh Hashanah Story. Every year, in preparation for the holiday, Katy and her mom pick enough apples to make their special sauce. But this year brings the birth of a new baby cousin for Katy, so, apple picking is off. Not to worry, the family’s friends and neighbors come to the rescue. Dynamic illustrations complete a story as fresh and crisp as a first, sweet autumn apple.

The library has dozens of other books on the High Holidays, including the Sammy Spider’s First Series that are very popular with preschoolers, as well as lots of board books for babies and toddlers.

Take the books home or read in the library. Babas and Zaydas can drop in with their grandchildren, who can choose their favorite holiday story.

To see a complete list of library books, check out the library catalogue at jcclibrary.ca.