Jewish Voices at the Highlights Foundation

Jewish Voices Book Covers
8-30_PJ Library Fun Group photo

Our Goal

To inspire children through story by amplifying the voices of Jewish authors & illustrators.

Our Action:

Craft and education, community-building, and resources and support for Jewish creatives and professionals in and around the children’s book industry.

Testimonials from Jewish community

“The impact of Highlights on my life has been tremendous. The workshops have shaped and informed me as a writer and have been enlightening. My first published [picture book], PAT, ROLL, PULL, was shaped by editor Devorah Rosenfeld during a Highlights workshop. WHISTLING FOR ANGELA, a [picture book] about open adoption was critiqued in three different workshops. It will be published this spring by Pajama Press.” (Robin Heald)

“The generous, brilliant faculty. The talented group you curated. The chance to spend a few days with a crew with similar values and passions from a variety of backgrounds. All of that plus the Highlights magic equaled the chance for my brain to really put together some of the picture book craft stuff I’ve been working to synthesize. Plus, I met some writing pals I’m sure will be on my go-to list for years to come. Sending a humungous thank you.” (Melissa Lasher)

“Sharing experiences with veteran kidlit Jewish authors to unpublished ones like me, late nights just listening to everyone talk about their paths and their thoughts and struggles – it’s all just sitting in my head, slowing unpacking.” (Yossi Mandel)

“But from the moment I stepped into the Barn, I knew all my worrying was for naught. That weekend instead was one of the most energizing and inspiring things I’ve done so far as a writer. My voice was respected in a way that I had never experienced before in a creative space.” (A.R. Vishny)

News and Resources

Funds for Jewish Voices at the Highlights Foundation

PJ Library Scholarship (To nurture and develop authors and illustrators of Jewish-themed books for children.)
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Blogs and Podcasts

Cooking Up Stories: Brand-New Bubbe Plus a Recipe and a Prompt

Cooking Up Stories: Brand-New Bubbe Plus a Recipe and a Prompt

Celebrating Sarah Aronson’s Book Birthday!

Celebrating Sarah Aronson’s Book Birthday!

#HFGather: Sarah Aronson & Heidi Stemple Writer Chat

#HFGather: Sarah Aronson & Heidi Stemple Writer Chat

Cooking Up Stories: The Night Diary Plus a Recipe and a Prompt

Cooking Up Stories: The Night Diary Plus a Recipe and a Prompt

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Upcoming Programs Featuring Jewish Voices

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Get Involved

How will you inspire kids by amplifying the voices of Jewish authors and illustrators?