The Rabbi and The Painter Book Review

The Rabbi and The Painter

Written by Shoshana Weiss

Illustrated by Jennifer Kirkham

Expected publication by Kalaniot Books: September 21, 2021

Review

The Rabbi and The Painter makes me smile and gives me goosebumps. It is a tale of what-if? It could have happened. Rabbi Leon of Modena and Tintoretto lived near one another in Venice and neither confined himself to the norms of his community. Whether it happened or not, The Rabbi and The Painter tells an exciting and gratifying story of Tintoretto's Last Supper as facilitated by Rabbi Leon of Modena.

A young audience will understand the restrictions placed upon Jews in Renaissance Europe as well as the artistic norms for painters of the day. They will cheer on Judah as he follows his curiosity to learn about life beyond the ghetto and Tintoretto as he pours his soul into his artwork despite criticism of his new style. When Judah becomes a Rabbi, Tintoretto consults him on an important painting, and the Church accepts that painting. It is a victory for all involved.

An account of bridging divides and following both your passion and your conscience, The Rabbi and the Painter has great appeal. Add flowing narration and Saint-Exupéry-esque illustrations and you have the whole package. I highly recommend it!

Note: A review copy was provided upon request for the purpose of an honest review. All thoughts are my own.