  | Judah Touro didn't want to be famous (Jewish heroes) Author: Ades, Audrey | |
| Price: $19.93 | ||
Summary:
Judah's dream of becoming a successful shopkeeper comes true but, when God spares his life after being wounded during the War of 1812, he begins using his riches to secretly help others. Includes historical and biographical note.
| Illustrator: | Mildenberger, Vivien |
Reviews:
Kirkus Reviews (01/15/20)
Booklist (03/01/20)
Full Text Reviews:
Booklist - 03/01/2020 Though fictionalized, Judah Touro’s life as an early nineteenth-century American Jewish merchant, war hero, and philanthropist is accessibly relayed here. Although related to the founders of the famous Touro synagogue in New England, Judah spent his adult life in New Orleans, building his business, serving in the War of 1812, and giving to charitable causes both local and throughout the new U.S. The book fills a unique niche in American Jewish history for young people. It highlights a real example of personal generosity but also illuminates Jewish life outside of New York and other major cities in an era before large-scale immigration from Eastern Europe. The muted illustrations evoke the period and Judah’s humble demeanor well. As the book suggests, Judah was never himself famous; much of his giving was done anonymously, and his motives remain mysterious. In the story, he is often described as thinking about God’s plans for him, so this book would be best for a setting where religious ideas are appropriate. - Copyright 2020 Booklist.
