D.I.J – Do It Jewish: Use Your Jewish Creativity
by Barbara Bietz, illustrated by Daria Grinevich
Intergalactic Afikoman, 2020
It’s like a Jewish creativity mentor in a book! With chapters ranging from Jewish filmmaking to Jewish cartooning, learn from an incredible array of Jewish creativity experts!
**Foreword Indies Finalist – Juvenile Nonfiction**
What Reviewers are saying…
“This perfect family Hanukkah gift will spark unique projects for kids and teens. Award winning Jewish book writer Barbara Bietz has compiled a fascinating array of Jewish creatives who share their behind-the-scenes stories about Jewish filmmaking, cooking, songwriting and more, along with suggestions for projects… a perfect family gift.” The Jewish Journal
“…a delightfully informative and fun compendium of all matters Jewish and specifically designed for children ages 8-12. Young readers will enjoy learning from Jewish creativity mentors and using their own Jewish creativity in areas ranging from Jewish cooking, Jewish filmmaking, Jewish cartooning & graphic novels; and Jewish song writing, to Jewish painting & art; making Midrash, and creating Judaica…especially recommended for family, synagogue, and community library collections for young readers.” Midwest Book Review
“Here’s a great new boredom buster for kids 8-12 (and up). In this inspired collection Barbara Bietz shares creative projects from Jewish mentors in fields from cartooning to cooking to making your own midrash and more …” The Jewish Standard
“This guide for aspiring young artists and storytellers of all varieties aims to be ‘a Jewish creativity mentor in a book’…testimonials of these accomplished creators, sometimes including their failures, and the suggestions for ways of combining one’s artistic and Jewish interests will encourage budding artists to create their own unique work.” Association of Jewish Libraries
“Noted children’s author, Barbara Bietz, makes an attempt to examine the creative process in the sphere of the Jewish arts, to focus on its substance, and to guide would-be writers, painters, musicians, and others through a process in which the ultimate goal is the creation of something new that may surprise and delight . . .This unique book is a perfect example of creativity in action.” Jewish Book Council
“Bietz and the professionals she’s interviewed all explain how easy it is to gain experience by seeking help from those closest to us—family and friends fieldwork so to speak. Grinevich’s spot art, as well as occasional photos, nicely break up the text and add colorful appeal. I hope your kids will take advantage of the upcoming holiday to explore some of the topics in DIJ-Do it Jewish by joining you in the kitchen, the synagogue, or out in your community as they gain a better understanding of what Jewish creativity is all about.” Good Reads with Ronna