SELECTING YOUR PASSOVER HAGGADAH

A PASSOVER HAGGADAH, prepared by the Central Conference of American Rabbis (Reform Movement), edited by Herbert Bronstein, illustrations by Leonard Baskin ($14.95). This Haggadah is a favorite because of its lovely illustrations. The text contains introductory material and contemporary language that will contribute to any Seder. The interpretation of the ten plagues is particularly compelling. In his introduction, Rabbi Bronstein makes a point all leaders should remember: "It is not our intention that this Haggadah should be read in its entirety… Our aim is to provide a wide latitude and scope for choice."

By Sue Levi Elwell
ISBN-13: 9780881230789
Availability: On Our Shelves Now
Published: Central Conference of American Rabbis, 2000

THE OPEN DOOR, edited by Sue Levi Elwell, ($19.95) was published by CCAR in 2002. In keeping with the Reform movement’s increased use of Hebrew and greater incorporation of ritual, the Haggadah follows the order of the Seder with Hebrew and English. This Haggadah strikes a nice balance between tradition and modern customs. It is also terse if you want to move the Seder along at a brisk pace.

A FAMILY HAGGADAH by Shoshana Silberman ($4.95) is a quick-reading Haggadah to use with young children. It has all of the elements necessary for the Seder, the symbols and the story (Maggid) A FAMILY HAGGADAH II ($4.95) has more commentary and is appropriate for school-age children. Both Haggadot have many suggestions for conducting services with families.

How are they different?

This original Family Haggadah (with the purple and green cover) includes words to several favorite children's songs and commentary and questions geared to young children. The Birkat Hamazon (grace after meals) is abbreviated.

The Family Haggadah II (with the multi-colored cover) has no children's songs, and the commentary is geared towards teens and adults. The service includes a full Birkat Hamazon (grace after meals).

If you are including children in your seder, you may want to browse in the Children’s Department as well where there are some Haggadot for children and stories about Passover. Below you can see more options of books and toys that we have in stock: