written by Jordan Namerow
illustrated by Michelle Simpson
Seven-year-old Zinni loves learning about the world—especially the ocean and the wondrous creatures that live there!
Of all the world’s fascinating sea creatures, her favorites are mollusks, like squids and sea snails. When Zinni’s mommy, a rabbi, tells her the story of a mysterious ancient mollusk whose vivid blue ink is sacred to the Jewish people, Zinni is determined to find it . . . even if the only place she can search is in her dreams.
$14.95 – $25.95
Jordan Namerow is a writer and communications professional. Much of her writing explores themes related to feminism, parenting, social justice, Judaism, and the dynamics of belonging. A graduate of Wellesley College and Columbia University, she lives in Boston with her family. Like the Sea and the Sky is Jordan’s first children’s book. Learn more at jordannamerow.com.
Format: Hardcover, Paperback
Pages: 32
ISBN HC: 978-1-958754-79-5
ISBN PB: 978-1-958754-80-1
Release Date: 2/12/2023
“This sensitive and surprising book illuminates the threads connecting childhood and adulthood, Judaism and science, loneliness, and togetherness. I loved it and you will too.”
— Liana Finck, cartoonist for The New Yorker and author of Passing for Human and Let There Be Light: The Real Story of Her Creation
“Seven-year-old Zinni is into marine biology the way many kids her age are into dinosaurs; she even dreams about sea turtles and parrot fish. Zinni is captivated when her mom, a rabbi, tells her about a mollusk found in the Mediterranean that was the source of a beautiful blue dye used on the fringes of prayer shawls. A lovely story about science, imagination, and a joyful spirituality as deep as the blue ocean and as high as the blue sky.”
— Anita Diamant, author of The Red Tent, The Jewish Wedding Now, and How to Raise a Jewish Child
“This beautiful, tender book communicates so much in so few words—about sharing vulnerability, about resilience, about Judaism’s expansive approach to learning and thinking—all within exactly the kind of story that kids and parents will return to again and again.”
— Rabbi Danya Ruttenberg, author of Nurture the Wow
“This book is an utter delight to read. It’s a heartwarming story about a mother-daughter relationship, an awe-inspiring account of the natural wonders in the depths of our oceans, and a passionate call to all of us—children and adults alike—to stay curious even when we don’t find what we’re looking for.”
— Sarah Hurwitz, former head speechwriter for First Lady Michelle Obama, and author of Here All Along: Finding Meaning, Spirituality, and a Deeper Connection to Life—in Judaism (After Finally Choosing to Look There)
“It is a gift to be reminded of the world’s vibrant and mysterious colors. Jordan Namerow has done more in this sweet story than introduce young readers to beautifully woven spiritual traditions, passed down from a wise rabbi to her daughter. Like the Sea and the Sky is a well-crafted deep-sea exploration of how to live a grateful life by beginning each day with wonder and growing our souls one blessing at a time.”
— Rabbi Menachem Creditor, Scholar in Residence at UJA-Federation of New York, author of A Rabbi’s Heart
“This lovely tale, a fluid blend of science and religion, inspires wonder for the diverse creatures living underwater—and empathy for those of us living onshore.”
— Sigal Samuel, author of Osnat and Her Dove: The True Story of the World’s First Female Rabbi
“I love this story. It’s a wonderful example of how to bring Jewish values and teachings to our children in a loving and supportive way.”
— Rabbi Sandra Lawson, Inaugural Director of Racial Diversity, Equity and Inclusion at Reconstructing Judaism
Michelle Simpson is a full-time illustrator based out of the Niagara Region of Canada. She graduated with a BAA in illustration from Sheridan College. Michelle’s main focus is on children’s book illustrations and educational material for kids. She has worked with many large publishing houses and has also created concept artwork and final backgrounds for season two of the children’s TV show Ollie: The Boy Who Became What He Ate and season one of Tee and Mo.
