DIJ-Do It Jewish: Use Your Jewish Creativity!

Gr 5 Up–This guide that centers on Jewish creativity is organized into chapters that cover filmmaking, cooking, songwriting, art, comics/graphic novels, midrash, and Judaica. Each chapter is divided into three sections. The first is a combination of prompts that explain how to start the creative process. The story of a successful creator is interwoven throughout, with a biography annotated at the end. The second section provides a shorter description of another person who was successful in the field. The final section features a DIY list of supplies and processes, followed by a glossary of terms. The idea is laudable, but the execution is weak. The writing is accessible but uneven. Additionally, the section on filmmaking does not dive into the accessibility challenges and social barriers that arise with the pursuit of this career. The remaining sections, especially those on graphic novels, art, cooking, and midrash, are realistic and more successful. Finally, the constant insertions of the word “Jewish” into the text become intrusive at times.