A Synagogue Just Like Home

PreS-Gr 2–McGinty (Bathe the Cat) tells the story of Rabbi Ruben and his valiant efforts to maintain his not-so-new synagogue. With a leaky sink, squeaky library floors, and drafty windows, Rabbi Ruben has a challenge on his hands. On Friday, before the start of Shabbat, Rabbi Ruben decides to fix everything as a gift to his congregation. But a handyman Rabbi is not. He uses tablecloths to fix the drafty windows, a hammer to pound the floor into sitting straighter, and employs a piece of raw challah to fix the leaky sink. After the service that evening, the congregation can’t help but notice the tablecloth-sealed windows or the fountain spray of water when the challah gives way. Following their Sabbath rest, the congregation comes together to use their various areas of expertise, and everyone pitches in to refurbish and polish their synagogue. Molk’s illustrations capture Jewish traditions in vibrant watercolor style through mixed media and are finished digitally. The artwork brings to life the water, light from the candles, and humor in the repairs. A glossary of terms, pronunciation, and definitions is included.