The Synagogue Speaks!

A blogpost by associate director Anita Kassof.

Memoirs, scholarly journals, monographs. That’s probably what comes to mind when you think of Jewish Museum of Maryland publications. But think again. For the first time ever, we’re at work on an illustrated children’s book. Based on the popular exhibition of the same name, The Synagogue Speaks tells the story of the historic Lloyd Street Synagogue and the different people who worshipped there.

We are very fortunate to be working with illustrator Jonathon Scott Fuqua, whose intricate (and historically accurate) watercolors bring the story to life. This beautiful picture book will enchant both kids and adults. Here’s how the story opens:

Long before your grandparents’ grandparents were babies, before they walked or talked or tied their own shoes, I was built with shovel and pail, hammer and nail, brick and stone.

Long before skyscrapers were built or cars were invented, back when people traveled by horse and carriage, I rose from the ground.

I was a synagogue, new and proud.

And here are a few more of Scott’s wonderful watercolors:

Intrigued? The book will be published in early 2011, and will be available online and in the Museum Shop.