Inspiring Individual Rabbi Publishes Spiritual Children’s Books for All Faiths By Stacey Bomser
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egardless of religious upbringing, we all ponder the existence of a higher power from time to time. Children, especially, call into question our beliefs. For most parents, it’s difficult to discuss something they do not always understand themselves. Rabbi Andrew Jacobs, the vibrant spiritual leader of Ramat Shalom Synagogue, has written a series of books to help families of all faiths explore their spirituality. “I began writing about eleven years ago. At that time, I was still in rabbinical school, working as a teacher in a synagogue,” shares Rabbi Jacobs. “On a regular basis, parents would approach me with spiritual questions posed by their children – questions they weren’t sure how to answer. The questions that these parents shared with me, and their desire to offer their children a meaningful answer, inspired me to Rabbi Andrew Jacobs and his wife, Rabbi Cheryl Jacobs, along with children Jonah and Abigail, who helped edit begin writing my children’s book series.” and co-illustrate his children’s books on spirituality. His first book, God Looks Like A Hug answers the common question: What does God look like? “That is probably the most common spiritual question children ask,” explains Rabbi Jacobs. “Most of us don’t know what the answer is. So, when a child asks the question, we are caught off guard. My book is an attempt to get parents and grandparents thinking about the answer.” God Looks Like A Hug gives many possible answers to the question, but, ultimately, suggests that God looks like something that can really only be felt – a hug. This image is beautifully expressed in illustrations created by Rabbi Jacobs’ children, Jonah and Abigail. They played a big role in the production of his books. “I started the books before I was a father, but they underwent major edits after my children were born and even more edits after they started asking the tough questions,” notes Rabbi Jacobs. “They are a primary source of inspiration as their desire to explore their spirituality is strong.” In addition to serving as editors and illustrators, the rabbi’s children also inspired the characters. The main character in God Looks Like A Hug is named Jonah, after Rabbi Jacob’s son. His second book, Who Made Butterflies, introduces Jonah’s sister Abigail, named after the rabbi’s daughter. Who Made Butterflies, explores God’s role in creating the world we live in,” says Rabbi Jacobs. “Other books in the series will explore a wider range of topics including prayer, loss of life, and counting our blessings.” Although all spiritual in nature, Rabbi Jacobs says his books are not religiousbased. “Obviously as a rabbi, I approach God from a Jewish place. But, I believe that my approach, especially in the books, is very accessible and understandable no matter what your religious background. I have received wonderful feedback from Jews, Christians and people with no religious affiliation.” Rabbi Andrew Jacobs’ books, “God Looks Like A Hug” and “Who Made Butterflies,” can be purchased at Ramat Shalom Synagogue, 11301 West Broward Boulevard in Plantation, or online at www.lulu.com or www.amazon.com. The cost is $15 for a paperback book or $5.99 for an e-book. Proceeds go to Ramat Shalom’s educational programs. To learn more about Rabbi Jacobs and his spiritual children’s book series, visit www.spiritualchildren.org.
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