New Children's Book on the Old City of David

A new historical fiction book for kids hopes to bring the story of Old Jerusalem to kids who are just starting to read.

Danny Publishers

 Several books about the Old City and the Jewish roots of Jerusalem are in the works, with one book, called An Adventure in the City of David, already on bookshelves.

The book, in easy Hebrew, is geared for the kindergarten crowd, but adults have been seen reading it as well, say its publishers, Danny Publishing. The book, by Aharon Horowitz, tells the story of the City of David, the area outside the Old City that was first built by King David. The area is rich in archaeological detail, and the book is an attempt to bring this history to young children.

The book revolves around Ori, who, together with his archaeologist uncle, goes on a time-capsule adventure in the neighborhood, uncovering discoveries about the wars, communities, kings, and daily life of the City of David throughout the ages.

The  book is illustrated with rich, deep colors, and includes time lines, easy to understand explanations of difficult concepts, and inviting graphics.

It also includes information about the Old City walls, ancient Hebrew script, and archaeological sites. The drawings are based on historic photos and documents of the area.

The book is currently available only in Hebrew, but the publishers say they are considering an English-language edition as well, if demand justifies it.

I is for Israel-Complex, Alluring, Memorable

 I took my second trip to Israel a short while ago.  My husband, who accompanied me, has been many times, as an archaeologist  excavating there some years ago.

What is it about the place that so allures?  The city of Jerusalem itself with its souk?  The Christian destinations, such as the Church of the Holy Sepulchre or the Church of the Nativity in Bethlehem? Could it be the Galilee area where the Biblical sites, luscious scenery of the sea (a lake, really) or amazing fish, my favorite being the Peter Fish, are prepared perfectly? 


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The Souk
Jerusalem

Could it be the Golan Heights which produces wines, heady and rich? The mosques with their mysterious perfumed aura? The Wailing Wall, part of which was destroyed in 70 AD but is used every day by the Faithful for prayer and bat and bar mitzvahs?

The answer is, of course, all of it and so much more.  The country is a cacophony of people, sounds, sights, the likes of which one is hard pressed to forget.  Rather, it plays around in your head, urging me, at least, to return.


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Nancy
Archaeological Site of Sepphoris

We have driven literally everywhere in a country that would fit into Florida eight times. It's been our good fortune to have visited most of the major archaeological sites, including the recently opened City of David in Jerusalem. 

Each time we return home invigorated, much the better for having gone.  It is our hope that another visit is in the offing in the future!

Norman
Western Wall of the Temple