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Jewish folk literature contains a rich repertoire of tales that have been told near the hearth, at the table, and in the synagogue for centuries. Some tales address life's problems. Others offer insight into human behavior. Even when the stories make us laugh, they often give us something to think about.
This treasure trove of forth-three folktales includes religious, wisdom, riddle, and tricks... More

Jewish folk literature contains a rich repertoire of tales that have been told near the hearth, at the table, and in the synagogue for centuries. Some tales address life's problems. Others offer insight into human behavior. Even when the stories make us laugh, they often give us something to think about.
This treasure trove of forth-three folktales includes religious, wisdom, riddle, and trickster tales. In these pages, you will meet King Solomon, who demonstrates his wisdom and learns valuable lessons from birds and ants. The prophet Elijah makes an appearance, with dire consequences for a greedy husband and wife. The hapless citizens of Chilm are here, too. In addition, there are bakers and beggars and rabbis. There are mice and lions and wolves. Taken together, their tales form a colorful mosaic of the Jewish storytelling tradition.

Sheldon Oberman, a master storyteller, retells the tales with simplicity and grace, making them perfect for performing and reading aloud. Peninnah Schram, herself and acclaimed storyteller and folklorist, provides lively commentary that examines the meaning of each tale and its place in history. These enduring stories entertain us today just as they entertained people who heard them told centuries ago.

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