Rising

Even though I am not Jewish, I found the message in Rising deeply resonant and universally meaningful. Teaching in an international school has been a privilege, allowing me to share and explore different beliefs with my students. At its core, all religions teach us one thing: to pause, reflect, and find meaning in our shared moments.

In Rising, we are invited into a warm and tactile day of making challah, where each step of the process is infused with care and tradition. The book beautifully captures the essence of Shabbat—a time when “everything from the past week comes to rest.” Isn’t this what we all long for? A moment to breathe, to slow down, and to be present?

The story’s gentle rhythm and rich imagery emphasize the idea of rising—not just in the literal sense of the dough, but in a broader, more reflective way. The line about how “everything rises in its own time” is a poignant reminder that growth, understanding, and even rest come when they are meant to. The book weaves this theme throughout, making it a meaningful read for all ages, regardless of background.

With its warm illustrations and lyrical storytelling, Rising is more than a book about baking—it is an invitation to appreciate tradition, patience, and the beauty of slowing down. Whether or not one observes Shabbat, the message of honouring time and cherishing simple, sacred moments is one that everyone can embrace.