Izzy Hagbah

By J.J. Gross

Book Overview

No Synopsis Available.

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 1932687394
• ISBN13: 9781932687392
• Release Date: October 2005
• Publisher: Simcha Media Group (NJ)
• Length: 37 Pages
• Weight: 0.50 lbs.
• Dimensions: 8.0" x 0.3" x 10.0"
• Age Range: 6 to 9 years
• Grade Range: Grades 1 to 4

Customer Reviews

if only we all had his strength and commitment

Have the Jews kept the laws of the Torah, or has the Torah kept the Jews? I am reminded of the story of the young Jewish author in SF, Alan Kaufman, who was recruited by the members of their aging shul to be their designated hagbah, since few other had the strength to lift their Torah. We are all endowed with various skills and strengths, and we must choose how to apply them. Maybe u know a shtarker person, a strong person with a strong heart as well. The book opens with a Sofer telling an assembly of children the story of Izzy. Izzy was a short, very powerful man, who dressed differently than the neighborhood Hasidim in Brooklyn. Izzy had a skill: it was hagbah. The book tells the story of a Hasidic congregation that accepts this powerful man who wore blue shirts instead of white, a kippah instead of a hat, and prayed differently. They didn't know his surname, never invited him home for a meal, but they sort of welcomed Izzy as their hagbah. As Izzy ages and his strength weakens and trembles, the shul worries (for him or for their bellies? hmmmm).. until one Yom Kippur....

Izzy Hagbah

Izzy Hagbah is a wonderful hero for children of all ages. His personal and steadfast commitment to the Torah will be an inspiration to all who read this book. What a beautifully written and illustrated story. A welcome addition to Jewish children's literature.

A compelling story for children as well as adults

This is an extremely moving story that will be enjoyed by children and adults alike. Although the story is rich in its references to Jewish tradition, the story is accessible to everyone, regardless of background (including those who are not Jewish). It is an extremely powerful story that guarantees an emotional response from its readers.