From the Ground Up
On a bright Sunday in early April the JMM unveiled its newest publication and first book for children at a family program dedicated to the publication. The Synagogue Speaks, a full color picture book written by JMM Associate Director Anita Kassof with watercolor illustrations by well-known local artist Jonathon Scott Fuqua, tells the story of the historic building and the three congregations (two synagogues and one church) that worshipped there.
Sunday’s program, called From the Ground Up, celebrated the publication through a variety of activities including painting, building, digging and otherwise exploring the Lloyd Street Synagogue and its gallery. Most poignant was Anita’s reading of the book which took place in the Synagogue itself. A large group of children of various ages listened and looked intently, as Anita read the story and showed the pictures. Young visitors had a rare opportunity to the meet author and illustrator after the reading. A great time was had by all! The Synagogue Speaks is for sale in the JMM Shop and online at jewishmuseummd.org. It sells for $18 and is geared toward children ages 4 to 10.