Jewish Voices at the Highlights Foundation

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Our Goal

To inspire children through story by amplifying the voices of Jewish authors & illustrators.

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Our Action:

Craft and education, community-building, and resources and support for Jewish creatives and professionals in and around the children’s book industry.

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Craft & Education

Upcoming Programs with Jewish Voices on Faculty
Programs for Jewish Creatives at the Highlights Foundation with PJ Library

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Testimonials from Jewish community

“The impact of Highlights on my life has been tremendous. The workshops have shaped and informed me as a writer and have been enlightening. My first published [picture book], PAT, ROLL, PULL, was shaped by editor Devorah Rosenfeld during a Highlights workshop. WHISTLING FOR ANGELA, a [picture book] about open adoption was critiqued in three different workshops. It will be published this spring by Pajama Press.” (Robin Heald)

“The generous, brilliant faculty. The talented group you curated. The chance to spend a few days with a crew with similar values and passions from a variety of backgrounds. All of that plus the Highlights magic equaled the chance for my brain to really put together some of the picture book craft stuff I’ve been working to synthesize. Plus, I met some writing pals I’m sure will be on my go-to list for years to come. Sending a humungous thank you.” (Melissa Lasher)

“Sharing experiences with veteran kidlit Jewish authors to unpublished ones like me, late nights just listening to everyone talk about their paths and their thoughts and struggles – it’s all just sitting in my head, slowing unpacking.” (Yossi Mandel)

“But from the moment I stepped into the Barn, I knew all my worrying was for naught. That weekend instead was one of the most energizing and inspiring things I’ve done so far as a writer. My voice was respected in a way that I had never experienced before in a creative space.” (A.R. Vishny)

PJ Library Picture Book Summer Camp

In 2022 and 2023, we hosted application-based Picture Book Summer Camps in partnership with PJ Library. Plans are currently underway for 2024. Read the more about the programs here.

PJ Library also funds additional scholarships for creatives to attend Highlights Foundation programs.

Learn more about PJ Library’s support for Jewish authors and illustrators.