Carly Loved Being Jewish centers on a child who experiences Jewish tradition through the warmth of family life. Friday evening marks the beginning of Shabbat, a favorite time for Carly, when the table is prepared, special dishes come out, candles are lit, and family gathers together.
Carly’s questions become the heart of the story. As she watches and listens, she learns about prayers, Shabbat candles, Kiddush, challah, Hebrew words, and the meaning behind traditions that may at first seem mysterious. Everyday family moments become opportunities for discovery.
The story also connects Carly with generations before her. Family objects and memories help show how traditions can carry love and identity from grandparents to parents to children, while Carly’s own curiosity allows those traditions to become personally meaningful.
Written by Charlene Gelber, with art and design by Katarzyna Skrzyniecka and Mateusz Skrzyniecki, the book offers a gentle, child-centered celebration of family, Jewish identity, memory, belonging, and the joy of learning why traditions matter.