In the wake of rising antisemitism since the Hamas terror attacks on October 7, 2023, parents, particularly those in Jewish communities, have grappled with how to discuss this sensitive topic with their children. Journalists Bianna Golodryga and Yonit Levi have shared their own struggles in addressing these issues, ultimately leading them to create a resource for families facing similar challenges.
Golodryga, a CNN news anchor, expressed her concern over the lack of resources for discussing antisemitism, noting that inquiries made to her child’s school revealed a troubling absence of support. “I never thought that we’d be having to address [it] so directly,” she remarked during an interview, emphasizing the importance of confronting these issues head-on.
In Israel, Levi faced similar challenges when her pre-teen son posed questions about antisemitism, leaving her at a loss for answers amidst the turmoil following the attacks. This shared experience motivated them to write a book that addresses these challenges directly; the result is their debut title, “Don’t Feed the Lion,” released recently.
While their professional responsibilities revolved around reporting on the ongoing conflict, Golodryga described their collaboration on the book as a “cathartic” process, allowing them to step away from the harsh realities of the news cycle. For Levi, the supportive experience of writing provided a beacon of light during a dark time.
Targeted toward middle school readers, “Don’t Feed the Lion” presents relatable lessons about discrimination through the eyes of Jewish siblings Theo and Annie Kaplan, who live in Chicago. Theo, soon to celebrate his bar mitzvah, navigates the fallout when a prominent soccer player’s antisemitic remarks lead to vandalism involving a swastika at his school. Meanwhile, Annie unwittingly delves into the dark world of antisemitism online, grappling with the multitude of challenges it presents.
The book strives to depict the complexity of the modern Jewish experience, introducing characters with a mix of cultural backgrounds—a rarity in Jewish literature. This realistic portrayal addresses the tensions that can arise within families, particularly as younger generations face the challenge of reconciling social pressures with cultural and religious traditions.
Central to the narrative are the responses of adults to the crisis, which often fall short, opting for silence or avoidance rather than taking a definitive stand—a reflection of real-world dynamics that young people often witness. The story underscores the moral clarity that youth can possess, illuminating the contrast with adult behavior.
Both Golodryga and Levi draw from their own children’s experiences and societal events, crafting a narrative that resonates with readers who may feel isolated in their encounters with discrimination. The book not only addresses the struggle against antisemitism but also fosters important conversations about right and wrong, emphasizing the need for a supportive community in the face of adversity.
“Don’t Feed the Lion” is more than a children’s book; it serves as a critical tool for families navigating a complicated landscape of identity and prejudice, encouraging open dialogue in a time when such discussions are crucial.