Jerusalem of Gold — A Book for Parents to Enjoy

Jerusalem serves as a cultural cornerstone in Jewish history and folklore. “That is the wonderful thing about Jerusalem: it is a place where the historical and the legendary meet.” – From Jerusalem of Gold: Jewish Stories of the Enchanted City

Jerusalem, throughout history, has been central to the life of the Jewish people – so much so that in ancient times it was often portrayed as the center of the world. This sacred city has two histories: one is the actual history and the other is a legendary one. Each is vitally important. Now – as we approach Israel’s 60th year – is an important time to teach children about Jerusalem.

Jerusalem of Gold: Jewish Stories of the Enchanted City (Jewish Lights Publishing/ August 2003/ Hardcover), retold by Howard Schwartz and illustrated by Neil Waldman, is a collection of some of the finest timeless tales ever told about Jerusalem. Collected from a wide variety of sources, ranging from the Talmud to midrash to Jewish folklore and mysticism, these retellings are beautiful and meaningful, fantastical and true – inviting readers to honor the traditions and wisdom of the sacred city.

Jerusalem of Gold: Jewish Stories of the Enchanted City reinforces that everything in Jerusalem is sacred – from the dust under one’s feet to the sun that shines down on the golden city. It celebrates this holy place that has been a rich resource for the Jewish imagination for three thousand years. Readers will discover inspiring classic tales, including:

• The Bird of Happiness
• How the Walls of the Temple Were Built
• The Miracle of King David’s Tomb
• Rabbi Nachman’s Chair and many more

Replete with illustrations and historic background, Jerusalem of Gold will help deepen understanding of Jewish tradition and the words that helped it survive. This book answers such intriguing questions as: “Why is the Western Wall so important?”; “Where did the very first vampire story come from?”; and, “What did the Red Sea look like as the children of Israel passed through it on their journey to Egypt?”