In the Land of Happy Tears: Yiddish Tales for Modern Times

by David Stromberg (Editor)

These eighteen stories for a changing world, never before translated into English, by writers from Eastern European countries including Russia and Poland, focus on excellent storytelling, strong characters, and creative ideas. The stories express solid principles and open-minded attitudes, and a sense of both familiarity and adventure in the face of difficult times.

As the old Eastern European Yiddish-speaking world began to clash with modernity, Yiddish authors created new stories to capture the imaginations of children growing up in times of social and historical upheaval. These stories have largely been overlooked or forgotten, until now. These hidden treasures from the early- and mid-20th-century rich Yiddish literary tradition each provide a satisfying read, while the entire collection runs the gamut of storytelling modes used to bridge new and old worlds. Authors include some of the most respected Yiddish writers of their time, who were known in their homelands and then in America, such as Moishe Nadir, Jacob Reisfeder, Sonia Kantor, and many others. The ethos binding the stories focuses on messages that continue to ring true today while reinvigorating the idea of values largely usurped from contemporary society.

Genres: Short Stories, Jewish, Middle Grade, Fiction, Childrens, Folklore

192 pages, Hardcover

First published September 18, 2018

Reviews

[Fran · Rating 5 out of 5]

Many Yiddish speaking Eastern European Jews immigrated to America en masse from the 1880's to 1920's. Yiddish storytelling unmasked harsh realities as well as communicated moral lessons. Editor David Stromberg hand picked eighteen tales demonstrating the high moral ground children and adults are encouraged to follow regardless of life's challenges. These imaginative folktales written by early twentieth century Yiddish writers have never before been translated into English.

This exemplary collection contained several tales that were standouts to this reader. "A Treasure in the Snow" introduced a pious teacher and father of eight. Haim-ber was unable to earn any kopecks to buy bread and firewood. His family had not eaten for three days. There was no kindling to burn to light the oven. Despite abject poverty, he aided a hungry, old man. "The Little Boy with the Samovar" taught the ruler of the land a life lesson about warmongering. "The Kingdom of Ants and Mushrooms", "An Autumn Tale" and "A Squirrel's Diary" touched upon nature's life cycle and the need for humans to be mindful of the effect they have upon our forests and animal inhabitants.

Many of the stories are excellent vehicles for classroom discussion in an elementary school setting. "In the Land of Happy Tears: Yiddish Tales for Modern Times" was a most enjoyable read suitable for both children and adults.

Thank you Random House Children's, Delacorte Books for Young Readers and Net Galley for the opportunity to read and review "In the Land of Happy Tears".

[Literary Redhead · Rating 5 out of 5]

In the Land of Happy Tears is a beautifully illustrated and told collection of 18 Yiddish tales translated into English for the first time. The stories from Eastern European feature superb storytelling, compelling characters, and high creativity, while emphasizing solid principles of open-mindedness and a sense of adventure when confronting trying times. 5/5

Thanks to the author, Random House Children's and NetGalley for the review copy; opinions are truly mine.

#InTheLandOfHappyTears:yiddishTalesForModernTimes #NetGalley

[Bogi Takács]

This was really good, I might do a Jewish-themed week this upcoming week, because I also want to review Rena Rossner's YA book.

Source of the book: Lawrence Public Library

[Sharon · Rating 4 out of 5]

An exploration of Yiddish folktales and the Yiddish language, full of translated stories. Each section highlights an important Jewish value.

Something to think about in these strange political times.

[Lizzy · Rating 3 out of 5]

Listening to the stories read in Yiddish spoke to my soul in a deep way.

[Alaina · Rating 4 out of 5]

Interesting collection. There were some stories I really enjoyed. There were also a lot that ended rather abruptly and left me wanting more, which was disappointing. Overall, though, this is a great collection, and I especially enjoyed learning more about the Yiddish language.

[Cat · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am always on the look out for new tales to tell children and this book fit the bill perfectly! I wish I could read and understand every language in the world so I could discover new stories all the time! this is a good one for everyone. Lots of great stories with good lessons.
I received a Kindle ARC from Netgalley in exchange for a fair review.

[Anita · Rating 4 out of 5]

An eclectic set of Yiddish tales. I enjoyed the nature-related ones, like “An Autumn Tale” about two leaves drifting about and finally finding a home and “A Squirrel’s Diary,” which was literally a condensed life of a squirrel, saving for the winter and meeting a partner. “The Moon and the Little Boy” was cute—I like the anthropomorphized moon who was playful but also caring. The Wise Hat one was funny, almost in a sardonic way. Some, many, had very clear parables, in “The Enchanted Castle” and “A Treasure in the Snow,” the lesson was about helping others before yourself and being a good samaritan in a way. Some were parables of what not to be or do, like “The Broken Mirror” about vain boys, living an extravagant to their own downfall. Compare that to the nobility and generosity of “The Diamond Prince.” Overall, there were some morals like be good to others, don’t be foolish, don’t be greedy, be patient, don’t be a bad leader/king, take care of the poor, don’t make fun of others who are different, etc. Some pretty funny moments and some whimsical turns of events--and some violent ones, too.

3.8/5

Some quotes and remarks:

p. 55 “He was called ‘Yuhavit’ because after almost every third word, he’d say, ‘There you have it.’”
—hhahahha

p. 68 “And there he stood, a great ruler who could make millions of fathers happy or unhappy with a single decree—yet he did not know how to comfort his precious only son. He was prepared to give up treasuries full of riches if only it would make his son happy again. But happiness cannot be bought, even for all the riches in the world…”
—How strange happiness is, that it cannot be packaged and commodified (though drugmakers might disagree, if the definition of happiness is pared down to chemicals flowing in the body)

p. 148 “Shloyme took form his bag the only challah his mother had baked for his journey and said: ‘Here, old man, eat in good health. I can’t give you anything more or better. I don’t have anything.”
—I enjoy the cultural references to food, as well as other Yiddish terms found in the glossary (including Shreklekh and shrek!)

[Kimberly (Book Swoon) · Rating 4 out of 5]

In the Land of Happy Tears: Yiddish Tales for Modern Times by David Stromberg is one of those books that is filled with quiet wisdom, it is storytelling meant to entertain while imparting timeless moral lessons to children.

What makes this book such a treat is the fact this collection of stories are taken from Yiddish literary works, many of which have been nearly forgotten. The introduction is a fascinating look at the Yiddish language and culture as it traces the migration many Eastern European Jews took to the United States of America while escaping persecution, bringing with them their rich, storytelling tradition.

I especially enjoyed how the book is broken up into four sections, highlighting the principles: bravery, rebellion, justice, and wonder. This would be a great addition to a library's collection, to readers who enjoy a broad range of storytelling, and anyone who is curious about the Yiddish language and its fusion into American culture.

[Devin Rodriguez · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book is a unique and entertaining read. The translation of the stories are easy to understand, but there are definitely some cultural ideas which do not lend themselves to translation. Some of the stories I would even consider comical and absurd.

But there are quite a few gems in this pile of whimsical tales. My personal favorite concerns the mushroom kingdom, a king who gets his tongue stuck in a honey jar, and a story about a small boy and his bird trap.

Expect the unexpected in this fable-filled collection.

I'd recommend this book to people who love odd fairy tales, Grimm Fables, or Yiddish culture.

[Audrey · Rating 5 out of 5]

These stories were extremely fun to read and an interesting look into Jewish folklore. The introduction and appendix give great insight into the language usage and the history and culture of the stories. I loved the word play and unexpected endings. Quick reads that are a treat for entertainment and for learning something about the Jewish culture of storytelling.

[Sarah :) · Rating 4 out of 5]

It's very cute. All of the stories have strong morals, although I thought a few of them might have been stronger in the original language.

[Rebecca · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 stars - full interesting little tales. Some were humorous, some didn't make sense, and some we wished were longer

[Kim · Rating 5 out of 5]

Adored it. Want to share it with the nieces.

[Ellen · Rating 4 out of 5]

Enjoyable collection of stories

[Kylee · Rating 4 out of 5]

very cute, i loved the nature themed ones, the moon and the little boy was my favorite.

[Shyly Elam · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book is fantastic, I feel it can be inspiring for students as well as open their eyes to many Jewish cultures/customs. Many of the stories were very entertaining and could be great for a classroom library

[William McNamara]

This is a delightful collection of never-before translated Yiddish tales from the early and mid twentieth century, offering the reader a powerful glimpse into the culture and values of Eastern European Jewish communities prior to the Second World War. I especially enjoyed the last few tales, particularly Jacob Reisfeder’s deeply moving “A Treasure in the Snow,” in which the prophet Elijah appears to a poor family as an old, starving man who blesses them with the eponymous treasure after they selflessly feed him some dumplings, the only food that they have.

[Andréa]

Note: I received a digital review copy from the publisher through NetGalley.

[Felicia Allen · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is really cute. I love fairy tales from different cultures. I think I will buy this when it is released and add it to my collection

[Patti Mcclenthen]

translated, short stories, Hanukkah gift rec, middle grade