Podcast
PJ Library Presents: Have I Got A Story For You!
Have I Got a Story For You is a new podcast from PJ Library, a program of the Harold Grinspoon Foundation. In every episode families can enjoy an update of a classic Jewish folk tale. There's adventure and mischief and even a hamster named Augustus! Learn more at gotastorypodcast.com.
Episodes
Preview: Beyond the Bookcase
Oct 20 2021
Listen to a preview of PJ Library's newest show, Beyond the Bookcase. Ready to hear more? Subscribe to Beyond the Bookcase wherever you listen to podcasts.
Coming Soon: Beyond the Bookcase
Sep 29 2021
PJ Library Presents: Beyond the Bookcase, launches October 18th, 2021. Subscribe wherever you love to listen to podcasts. Learn more at pjlibrary.org/podcast
Coming Soon: Afternoons With Mimi
Sep 29 2021
PJ Library Presents: Afternoons With Mimi, launches October 4, 2021. Subscribe wherever you listen to podcasts and learn more at pjlibrary.org/podcast.
029: Behind The Door: A Story By Harold Grinspoon
Aug 11 2021
Welcome to a very special episode of Have I Got a Story For You! Today's story was written by PJ Library's founder, Harold Grinspoon and Vivian Newman. Join young Harold and his best buddy Diane, as they journey behind a heavy door, through dark, mysterious tunnels, and back to freedom. Will they triumph over the darkness, the evil dust bunnies, the rabbi's singing? Find out in today's season finale, Behind the Door!
028: The Magical Letter
Aug 10 2021
Today Rita narrates an audiobook for listeners: The Magical Letter. As he discovers writing, Nitai decides to write his first letter to his mother. The story, told from the viewpoint of the simple white page, tells how Nitai’s letter, passed from person to person, magically touches each one. This charming book speaks to the power of words to bring joy, to bridge difference and to express compassion and to encourage. The Magical Letter, written and illustrated by Elinor Milchan. Published by Y...more
027: The Shabbat Flood
May 11 2021
Travel back in time to the village of Rosgart for a very rainy Shabbat. Ira and his father Jacob take great pride in baking the best challah in town -- and remembering every customer's order. But what happens when a small early Saturday morning drizzle turns into a downpour and then a flood unlike any Rosgart has ever seen? Rita, Jacob, and Ira get very creative to make sure everyone can enjoy Shabbat. This fictional episode is inspired by a very true story about an intrepid baker and a flood i...more
026: The Donkey and the Garden
Apr 05 2021
How will Rabbi Akiva get over his embarrassment and learn to read when all the pupils in the class are children and he is already a grown man? In this charming, modern version of a Talmudic tale, Rabbi Akiva’s clever wife, Rachel, shows him that one should never let shyness or fear of embarrassment stand in the way of learning. The Donkey and the Garden is written by Devora Busheri, illustrated by Menahem Halberstad, and published in English by Green Bean Books. This title was also a selection...more
Passover Playlist
Mar 02 2021
Get ready for Passover with Have I Got a Story For You! Learn the Passover story, practice the Four Questions, and follow a pirate on an epic afikomen hunt. For everything you need to enjoy Passover with your family, visit pjlibrary.org/passover.
Shabbat Stories Playlist
Mar 01 2021
The work or school week can feel long and hectic -- that's why Shabbat is so awesome. On Shabbat, we get to take a break, take a breather, and slow down. It's the perfect reset - and that's what makes Friday nights feel so special, and dare we say, magical. Enjoy three Shabbat-themed stories in this playlist: Sweet-Town Rivals, Miracle Bread, and The Missing Ingredient. There are also Shabbat-themed discussion questions to talk over with your family.
Replay: Two Sisters
Feb 23 2021
What's better than family? How about cooking for family? If you feel inspired by today's story, Two Sisters, share your favorite family recipe with PJ Library and the Jewish Food Society -- it might become a PJ Library book! The ingredients for the next classic children's story might be right in your kitchen! PJ Library is partnering with the Jewish Food Society (JFS) to find a recipe with a backstory that can be whipped up into the next great picture book. Visit jewishfoodsociety.org/pjlibrary...more
Replay: The Clever Thief
Feb 18 2021
Rita Toomey has a recipe for "day off nachos" ready to share with a skateboarding piglet friend. Do you have a special family story and classic dish that's beloved by your guests? Tell us all about it! PJ Library is partnering with the Jewish Food Society (JFS) to find a recipe with a backstory that can be whipped up into the next great picture book. Give us a taste of your story at jewishfoodsociety.org/pjlibrary -- one family's recipe will be turned into a PJ Library book! The ingredients f...more
Replay: Sweet-Town Rivals
Feb 16 2021
The ingredients for the next classic children's story might be right in your kitchen! PJ Library is partnering with the Jewish Food Society (JFS) to find a recipe with a backstory that can be whipped up into the next great picture book. After listening to today's story, Sweet-Town Rivals, give us a taste of what's cooking in your kitchen at jewishfoodsociety.org/pjlibrary -- one family's recipe will be turned into a PJ Library book!
Replay: Rena's Restaurant Reviews
Feb 09 2021
The ingredients for the next classic children's story might be right in your kitchen! PJ Library is partnering with the Jewish Food Society (JFS) to find a recipe with a backstory that can be whipped up into the next great picture book. To get your creative cooking (or baking) juices flowing, we're re-airing some of our favorite food-themed Have I Got a Story For You! episodes, starting with Rena's Restaurant Reviews. After listening, give us a taste of your story at jewishfoodsociety.org/pjlib...more
025: The Carob Tree
Dec 03 2020
Rita is out for a walk through the neighborhood, admiring all of the plants, gardens, and bushes that her neighbors have planted and cared for through the years. Her walk reminds her of another neighborhood with a special carob tree and a tale of two neighbors. The Carob Tree is a Jewish folk tale retold by PJ Library and presented to families here in audio form and as part of a special PJ Library December 2020 gift. Jewish tradition emphasizes both taking care of the here-and-now and creating...more
Audiobook: The Sabbath Lion
Oct 20 2020
In this Algerian folktale, Yosef is determined to keep the Sabbath -- even though he is in the middle of a dangerous desert journey. But he knows he’ll be all right because he is getting help from a powerful friend. The Sabbath Lion, written by Howard Schwartz and Barbara Rush, illustrated by Stephen Fieser, published by PJ Publishing. This story is narrated by Kristofer Jenson.
024: Iron Mom
Oct 20 2020
Tag along with Rita Toomey to follow the adventures of Iron Mom, the world's greatest superhero! From epic battles with out of this world villains, to Shabbat dinner with the kids, Iron Mom does it all. But why does she keep sneaking out on Sundays in disguise? Episode Credits Have I Got a Story For You is a production of PJ Library Executive producers: Meredith Lewis, Alli Thresher Director: Alli Thresher Additional production: Craig Rossein Website design: Christina Rizer Audio editing, mix...more
Audiobook: The Mouse Who Danced The Hora
Oct 19 2020
Tillie Mouscovitz lives in the walls of a synagogue. She normally stays out of sight, but the joy of a wedding party dancing the hora lures her out. After all, it’s a mitzvah to dance at a wedding! Will Tillie be allowed to join in entertaining the bride and groom? The Mouse Who Danced the Hora is written by Pamela Mayer, illustrated by Christine Davenier , and published by PJ Publishing. This audiobook is narrated by Deirdre Wade. Visit pjlibrary.org/books to learn more.
Mini Minisode 3: What Is Shemini Atzeret?
Oct 06 2020
Listener Addison has heard of a Jewish holiday where people pray for rain. Rabbi Naomi is here to give the scoop on Shemini Atzeret, one of the holidays right after Sukkot. Learn more at pjlibrary.org/holidays
Audiobook: Never Too Quiet
Oct 05 2020
Chag Sameach, it's a Sukkot surprise! This week we're changing things up with an audiobook. If you would like more audiobooks mixed in with your Have I Got a Story For You folktales, drop us a line at gotastorypodcast.com/contact. Credits: Never Too Quiet, written by Barbara Diamond Goldin and illustrated by Amanda Hall, is published by PJ Publishing. Audiobook narration by Kristofer Jenson Editing by Alli Thresher
023: The Clever Thief
Sep 29 2020
A nacho-loving piglet, a very formal rooster, and a jingle-writing lion all take center stage in this week's episode. Rita Toomey is at home enjoying a mid-afternoon snack when an unexpected visitor arrives. Piglet regales Rita, and listeners, with an updated take on a midrash that reminds us all: no one is perfect (and that's okay). Episode Credits Have I Got a Story For You is a production of PJ Library Executive producers: Meredith Lewis, Alli Thresher Director: Alli Thresher Additional pro...more
Listen Again: Talking With Kids About God
Sep 08 2020
Our recent episode, Carly's Cupcakes, is a story of kindness, community, and cupcakes. And it also inspired a couple of listener questions about God. This "mix" features answers to listener questions, a re-listen to Carly's Cupcakes, as well as tips from our special guest, Rabbi Avi Killip, about talking with your children about God, no matter what you believe.
Mini Minisode 2: Why Do We Eat Pomegranates On Rosh Hashanah?
Sep 08 2020
It's time for another mini minisode. Today, trusty engineer Al, is on hand to answer a listener question from Tali. Take a listen to learn more about the tradition of eating pomegranates on Rosh Hashanah. Check out PJ Library's free digital and print-at-home guide for the High Holidays at pjlibrary.org/highholidays.
Mini Minisode 1: Why Do We Celebrate Rosh Hashanah?
Sep 08 2020
Welcome to the first mini mini-sode of Have I Got a Story For You! This week a special guest from a recent episode is here to answer a listener question. Eden wants to know: "Why do we celebrate Rosh Hashanah?" Listen along to learn. And if your family is looking for help celebrating the High Holidays at home this year, visit pjlibrary.org/HighHolidays for a free digital guide and print at home resources.
022: Carly's Cupcakes
Aug 25 2020
Carly makes beautiful, delicious, inventive, cupcakes in her bakery. Carlotta keeps the synagogue running and dreams of trying one of Carly's cupcakes, but doesn't have the money to splurge on sweet treats. When the two cross paths, a sweet tale of tzedakah and community begins. Want to experiment with cupcake flavors and cupcake baking? Visit gotastorypodcast.com for a special "short-cut cupcake" recipe that's easy to customize. Episode Credits Have I Got a Story For You is a production of PJ ...more
020: Tali Under the Table
Aug 04 2020
Have you ever felt as ornery as an ostrich? Or as prickly as a porcupine? In a very special episode, Rita Toomey reads the book Tali Under the Table, written by Tamar Weiss-Gabbay. When Tali is angry and refuses to join everyone seated at the table for lunch at Grandma’s, her cousin Shira knows exactly what to do: she joins Tali under the table, and slowly leads her back to the family gathering in this story inspired by Rabbi Nachman of Breslov’s, The Turkey Prince. Tali Under the Table, a ...more
021: Og Goes Rogue
Aug 04 2020
Meet Og the Giant! He's a former king of Bashan, obsessed with bagels, and on a mission to rescue some animals--with the help of his new friend Dr. Noa and Rita Toomey. Grab your fanny pack, a box of egg matzah, and some comfy sandals as the Have I Got a Story For You team does a mitzvah -- saving animals! Learn more at gotastorypodcast.com. Episode Notes Episode Credits Have I Got a Story For You is a production of PJ Library Executive producers: Meredith Lewis, Alli Thresher Director: Alli...more
019: The Sweetest Sound
Jul 01 2020
What is the sweetest sound in the world? A perfectly tuned harp? A 25 piece klezmer band? A local scream-grind sensation? Join Rita and world famous rockers Kreplach Riot, as they search for the perfect opening act. Will they find it? Or will picky front-man Mendelsohn and a small bout of "hanger" break up the band? Episode Credits Have I Got a Story For You is a production of PJ Library Executive producers: Meredith Lewis, Alli Thresher Additional production: Craig Rossein Website design: Chr...more
018: The People Vs The Wind
May 26 2020
The residents of Haverton are furious -- the wind is messing up all of their plans and ruining everyone's day! From lost balloons to spoiled cakes to popped kick balls, the townspeople want justice, and that's where Rita Toomey and Judge Solomon come in. This episode is based on a King Solomon story -- learn more at gotastorypodcast.com. Episode Credits Have I Got a Story For You is a production of PJ Library Executive producers: Meredith Lewis, Alli Thresher Director: Alli Thresher Additional p...more
017: Al Learns About Shavuot
May 19 2020
Rita Toomey's favorite holiday, Shavuot, is coming up -- but her trusty audio engineer Al, doesn't know much about it. Listen in as Rita and Al get together via video chat for a cheesecake baking session and a quick run-down of Shavuot history and traditions. Looking for more kid-friendly, high quality, Jewish audio content? Check out pjlibrary.org/listen. Episode Credits Have I Got a Story For You is a production of PJ Library Executive producers: Meredith Lewis, Alli Thresher Director: Alli...more
016: Al Learns The Four Questions
Mar 31 2020
Rita Toomey and Al the engineer are wrapping up the mini-season when Al admits that he doesn't know the Four Questions. Rita and a friend from PJ Library (pjlibrary.org) help Al get seder-ready. Episode Credits Have I Got a Story For You is a production of PJ Library Executive producers: Meredith Lewis, Alli Thresher Director: Alli Thresher Additional production: Craig Rossein Website design: Christina Rizer Audio editing, mixing and mastering: Peter Moore Score: Peter Moore Recorded at Pa...more
015: The Passover Pirate
Mar 24 2020
Claire and Jamie open the door to welcome guests to their seder and Rita Toomey walks in – followed by a pirate! Find out what happens when a bearded scallywag leads the hunt for the afikomen. Episode Credits Have I Got a Story For You is a production of PJ Library Executive producers: Meredith Lewis, Alli Thresher Director: Alli Thresher Additional production: Craig Rossein Website design: Christina Rizer Audio editing, mixing and mastering: Peter Moore Score and “Pirate Dayenu” by Peter M...more
014: Sweet-Town Rivals
Mar 17 2020
Life is perfect for the candy-loving fairies of Sweet-Town! Well, except for the presence of a colony of stinky, mushroom-loving trolls at the edge of the neighborhood. Fairies and trolls have never gotten along – that’s just the way it is. But a young fairy Aviva wonders, why? And why can’t things change? Episode Credits Have I Got a Story For You is a production of PJ Library Executive producers: Meredith Lewis, Alli Thresher Director: Alli Thresher Additional production: Craig Rossein Website...more
013: The Passover Story For Kids (mini-sode)
Mar 10 2020
Instead of a full episode, this week we're trying something new with a short version of the Exodus story. Told in 10 brief passages to the sound of soothing music, this is a wonderful family-friendly version of the story, perfect for pre-naptime or right before bedtime. To see an animated version, check out PJ Library on YouTube: https://youtube.com/c/PJLibraryOfficial To learn the Passover songs in your haggadah, brush up on the Four Questions, and explore child-friendly audio, visit PJ Librar...more
012: The Purim Story (For Kids)
Mar 03 2020
Purim is a holiday marked by joyous activities. We dress up in our favorite costumes, share gifts of food with friends, give charity to those in need, have a festive meal with family and friends, and read a story (PJ Library’s favorite activity) – specifically, the story of Queen Esther – together. The story behind Purim isn’t exactly family-friendly though – so Rita Toomey and Al the audio engineer find a way to tell a version of the Purim story that works for all ages and audiences. Visit pjli...more
011: The Hanukkah Story (for Kids)
Dec 17 2019
In the final episode of Season 1, Rita Toomey shares the story of Hanukkah with Al, the sound engineer. Listen in for a humorous, and kid-friendly, version of the miracle of Hanukkah and the triumph of the Maccabees. As a bonus, your family will also find a quick guide on how to say the Hanukkah blessings, in Hebrew and English, at the end of the episode. Have I Got a Story For You is a production of PJ Library Executive producers: Meredith Lewis, Alli Thresher Director: Alli Thresher Addit...more
010: Bonus Episode - Where are They Now?
Dec 10 2019
Surprise! It's a bonus episode of Have I Got a Story For You! Today Rita Toomey catches up with Isaac and Chef from episode 9, "The Missing Ingredient." Are they still cooking together? Or has Isaac returned to his old grumpy, lonely self? We'll find out all of this plus hear voicemails from listeners! Episode Credits Have I Got a Story For You is a production of PJ Library Executive producers: Meredith Lewis, Alli Thresher Director: Alli Thresher Additional production: Craig Rossein Websit...more
009: The Missing Ingredient
Dec 03 2019
Isaac has everything - a sprawling mansion, a private chef, a sweet car... but he can't figure out how his friend Ruthie, who lives in a small studio, makes the best food he's ever eaten. Will Isaac learn Ruthie's secret? What IS the missing ingredient? This is the last full-length episode of Season 1 of Have I Got a Story For You! And this December, PJ Library subscribers will receive a special apron and booklet of this story, so you can cook along at home, just like Isaac and Ruthie! Episo...more
008: Special Agent: David King
Nov 19 2019
David King is a nine year-old special agent in the midst of a quest for... something. Who is he running from? Why? And what happened to cousin Jen, the previous game champion? And why are big brothers so sneaky? Have I Got a Story For You is a production of PJ Library Executive producers: Meredith Lewis, Alli Thresher Director: Alli Thresher Assistant Director: Henry Wentworth Additional production: Craig Rossein Website design: Christina Rizer Audio editing, mixing and mastering: Peter M...more
007: Miracle Bread
Nov 12 2019
Harry and Betty don't have much, but they have each other and their community. The couple don't want anyone worrying about their lack of challah on Friday nights, so they design a very creative ruse -- but one day, something positively magical happens and transforms Harry and Betty's Shabbat dinners, and their neighborhood. This episode is based on a Hanina Ben Dosa legend, Bread from Twigs. Learn more at gotastorypodcast.com. Episode Credits Have I Got a Story For You is a production of PJ Li...more
006: Rena's Restaurant Reviews
Nov 05 2019
Jake and Misha are best friends eating at their favorite restaurant when Rena, the coolest food vlogger on SuperTube enters. When the restaurant owner is cruel to a poor man, Craig, Rena intervenes to teach everyone what it really means to be a mensch. Enjoy this mouth-watering update on a classic Joha folk story. Visit gotastorypodcast.com for your own bagel burger recipe and to learn more about the trickster figure, Joha, that appears in so many stories from all over the world. Episode Credi...more
005: Yitzi, The Trusty Tractor
Oct 29 2019
Sarah gets a lot of work done with the help of her trusty tractor, Yitzi. And every Friday night they rest in the fields together to enjoy Shabbat. When times get tough, Sarah has to sell Yitzi. Luckily her best friend, Farmer Madge, buys him -- but what happens when Yitzi wants to power down for Shabbat and Madge wants to keep working? This week's story is an updated take on an old folktale about a cow who observed Shabbat. Learn more and find book suggestions at gotastorypodcast.com. Episo...more
004: A Whisker of Magic
Oct 22 2019
Mara and Malka are sisters with a lot in common, including a tendency to lose their tempers. To help the girls get along, Mama Mouse sends them on an epic quest. Will the sisters find shalom bayit, peace in the home? Will they steal a whisker from a cat? Will Mama ever buy them that new smoothie maker? Find out in this episode. Have I Got a Story For You is a production of PJ Library Executive producers: Meredith Lewis, Alli Thresher Director: Alli Thresher Additional production: Craig Rossein...more
003: Moon Station One
Oct 15 2019
It's 70 years in the future and Judi and Daniel are tasked with helping NASA's most brilliant, but curmeoudgenly, scientist, Doctor Michael J. Epstein as he manages Moon Station One. Dr. Epstein thinks Moon Station One is too crowded with eight other people living there and talking while they do work. And his room doesn't feel spacious enough. Judi and Daniel enact something called "Epsilon Protocol" to help Dr. Epstein feel more "at home" and hilarity ensues. Come along as we follow these futur...more
002: Two Sisters
Aug 12 2019
Amy and Emily are sisters, and best friends. They're alike in every way except that one of them has lots of pets while the other has lots of allergies. When each sister decides to surprise the other, lots of late night antics eventually help the pair find a fun and positive way to channel their passion for doing good deeds. Curious about the folktale that inspired this story? Visit gotastorypodcast.com for more information. You'll also find book recommendations, discussion questions, and more....more
001: The Truth About Cats and Dogs
Aug 12 2019
Cat and Dog are best friends, happily living in the garden of Eden. But one day Cat decides to live in a house with Adam and Eve. When Dog decides to join Cat, the friends have their very first disagreement. Episode Credits Have I Got a Story For You is a production of PJ Library Executive producers: Meredith Lewis, Alli Thresher Directed by: Alli Thresher Additional production: Craig Rossein Website design: Christina Rizer Audio editing, mixing and mastering by: Peter Moore Theme music: Penelo...more
Introducing Have I Got A Story For You!
Jun 26 2019
Where can you find brave mice, trips to the moon, bagel burgers and more? In every episode of Have I Got A Story For You your family can enjoy an updated version of a classic Jewish folktale. Have I Got A Story For You is produced by PJ Library, a program of the Harold Grinspoon Foundation. Learn more at pjlibrary.org.