Illustrated by Neil Waldman
Purchase an autographed copy of this book
Aaron loves his grandfather very much, even if he is a little bit embarrassed by Zayde’s funny accent and the way he waves his arms when he talks. Aaron longs to read his grandfather’s treasured books, but when he asks to learn Yiddish, the language Zayde spoke in the Old Country, Zayde refuses. In America, Aaron is told, Jews should speak and read English just like everyone else.
As the years pass, Zayde grows old, and Aaron grows up. It isn’t until Zayde himself abandons his heritage that they both realize the importance of preserving their family history and culture. Aaron and Zayde’s bond grows even deeper as they realize you’re never too young-or too old-for Yiddish.
An author’s note about the Yiddish language as well as a glossary and pronunciation guide of Yiddish terms are included.
- Skipping Stones Magazine Multicultural Honor Award
- Association of Jewish Libraries “Best of the Bunch”
- Richard Michelson talks about Maurice Sendak blurb for TYFY
- “…America is like soup. Everyone mixes together.”
- See a spoof Leonard Nimoy TYFY Cover.
Listen to Leonard Nimoy’s reading of Too Young for Yiddish:
Leonard Nimoy discusses Richard Michelson in a PODWOM interview:
One of the best Jewish children’s books published in recent memory, and one of the top 25 ever published.
—Detroit Jewish News
A wonderful story that deeply touched my own Yiddish heart.
—Maurice Sendak
I wept, I smiled,… The text in this book is lyrical and funny, and the pictures are extraordinary. Mazel tov, Michelson and Waldman!
—Jane Yolen
A moving testament to the power of language and stories.
—Walter Mays
…a warm, thoughtful, beautifully written story where the love of books is matched only by the love of people. I can’t wait to share it with my children.
—Aaron Lansky, Founder of the National Yiddish Book Center
The story possesses both power and pathos.
—Publisher’s Weekly