Kol Hakavod

October 25, 2019

PreS-Gr 1-Rhyming text introduces readers to the Hebrew expression Kol Hakavod. The literal translation is "all respect," but it really means so much more. Kiffel-Alcheh describes it this way: "It's everything. It's all. It's whole./Entire. The Most. In Hebrew, it's kol." "And what's kavod? It's gee! It's wow./It's honor, respect. It's whoa, holy cow!" Double page images show different ways that children can earn this praise: giving up their seat on the subway to a pregnant woman or elderly person, picking up trash, putting money in the tzedakah (charity) box, visiting a sick friend, showing kindness to animals, sharing, teaching someone something new, and many more. The illustrations are realistic, textured, and expressive and depict a contemporary, mostly urban setting. While the examples presented, as well as the overall message that even the smallest acts of kindness can make a big difference, are certainly universal, the phrase Kol Hakavod isn't typically heard outside of religious settings. VERDICT Educators in Jewish schools and synagogues can pair this newest offering with It's a- It's a- It's a Mitzvah! by Liz Suneby and Diane Heiman, Moti the Mitzvah Mouse by Vivian Newman, and One Good Deed by Terri Fields to inspire students to perform gemilut hasidim, acts of loving kindness.-Rachel Kamin, North Suburban Synagogue Beth El, Highland Park, IL

Copyright 2019 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

June 15, 2019
A series of kindhearted acts and good deeds by a community's residents illustrates how the world can be a better place. The opening narrative offers a more nuanced and expansive translation of the basic Hebrew idiom than is noted in the subtitle. "It's everything. It's all. It's whole. / Entire. The Most. In Hebrew, it's kol.... / And what's kavod? It's gee! It's wow. / It's honor, respect. It's whoa, holy cow!" The two Hebrew words put together literally translate to "all respect," making it a powerful message to acknowledge when something good and important is achieved. Various scenarios follow this introduction, depicting a harmonious community of children performing simple altruistic acts that summon a "Kol Hakavod!" Such acts as giving up a seat on the subway for an elderly person, feeding the dog, recycling, giving money to charity, visiting an ailing friend, inviting a new classmate to sit with you, and so on may seem minor but will produce major goodwill. The text rhymes--a little unevenly--and is illustrated with cartoon figures colored digitally (sometimes with bits of fabric swatches that add interest). The cast is made up of an assortment of races and ages, and one child uses a wheelchair. The message is clear: How one conducts oneself throughout life is important--at school, in the community, and beyond. This expression of a core Jewish value should resonate with readers of all ethnic groups and faiths. (Picture book. 4-7)

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