Grandparent's Memory Book for Jewish Families

Much of this memory book looks like any other memory book, but there are small differences that could make a large difference to Jewish families. These differences include places for Hebrew names and sections on religious traditions and education. Aside from these assets, this memory book is extraordinarily detailed, including a family tree and a place to record a basic medical history.

It's been said that it takes a village to raise a child. Maybe it takes a sisterhood to create a memory book for that child. The Sisterhood of Congregation Beth El of Montgomery County, Maryland, created this memory book for Jewish families, and the communal approach produced a book of uncommon thoroughness, with many extras.

Other than the spaces for Hebrew names, the first half of this book is similar to most memory books. Questions prompt the grandparent filling out the book to recall details of his or her early life. The centerpiece of the book is a simple but artistically rendered family tree. Following the family tree, the questions begin to focus on grandparenthood and on Judaism. The grandparent is prompted to recall family history associated with World War II, the Holocaust and the creation of Israel. Three sections that are more light-hearted follow: Interesting Tidbits (My Mishegoss), Firsts and Superlatives; and How Times Have Changed. The final pages of the book allow the grandparent to enter some lasting thoughts and include some photographs and mementos.

In summary, this book asks an extraordinary variety of questions. The questions about religious practice are general enough to fit different levels of observancy, and space is allowed for secular celebrations. I enjoyed the scriptures and Yiddish proverbs scattered through the book, especially "With a child in the house, all corners are full." That's a sentiment that grandparents can wholeheartedly second.

See full list of grandparent keepsake books.

Disclosure: A review copy was provided by the publisher. For more information, please see our Ethics Policy.