Gr 2–4—In language reminiscent of a fairy tale, this loose biography relates the little-known story of the first female
rabbi, Osnat Barzani, a Kurdish Jew whose knowledge of the Torah and leadership of a yeshiva in ancient Iraq
broke gender barriers.

The little known story of the first female rabbi, Osnat Barzani, a Kurdish Jew whose knowledge of the Torah and leadership of a yeshiva in ancient Iraq broke gender barriers. "Osnat and Her Dove is an inspiring story of a young Jewish hero, filled with wonderful cultural, religious and historical detail. It's a testament to the power of knowledge

Osnat lived 500 years ago. She convinced her father to teach her how to read and eventually became a legendary rabbi. A great story and the deep jewel-toned colors of this picture book make it a real gem.

I talk about this book on episode 154 of the Book Cougars (https://www.bookcougars.com/blog-1/2022/episode154) ( )

This is the story for young children of the first female rabbi, born in Mosul (in modern-day Iraq) in 1590. Her father was a rabbi who built a yeshiva to teach Jewish law, and allowed his curious daughter to learn as well. When Osnat grew up, her father told her she would soon need to be married, but she objected: “If I have a husband, he’ll expect me to do chores, and I won’t have any time for Torah study!” Her father agreed it would be a waste of her mind, and told all suitors they would have to excuse Osnat from doing chores to marry her. Most refused. But one man, Jacob, agreed, and they married.

When her father died, Jacob tried to take over the yeshiva but couldn’t keep up. Osnat began to teach the students as well. When Jacob passed away, Osnat took over the whole yeshiva. The men called her Tanna’it, a title given only to the most respected teachers. They also believed she performed miracles.

In an afterword, the author reports that a few of her writings have been preserved, and that she is still remembered locally as the first female rabbi and the first female Kurdish Jewish leader.

Colorful illustrations by Vali Mintzi evoke classical painters like Chagall. ( )

Truly wonderful story!! ( )