The Language of Angels: The Reinvention of Hebrew - Richard Michelson, Karla Gudeon

Eliezer Ben-Yehuda, a scholar living in late-nineteenth-century Jerusalem, was so devoted to reviving Hebrew that he insisted on raising his son, Ben-Zion, to speak The Language of Angels (Charlesbridge, $16.99) and nothing else. It made for a lonely childhood, since neighborhood children spoke Yiddish or other languages. Eventually, Ben-Yehuda realized that the best way to bring back Hebrew was to teach the language to all children, not just one; and so it happened that father and son collaborated to create Hebrew words for modern speakers. Karla Gudeon’s illustrations enhance the emotional arc of author Richard Michelson’s tale. Back matter provides context and explains where this poignant story diverges from the historical record. Ages 6-9.