The Language of Angels: A Story About the Reinvention of Hebrew

by Richard Michelson

Karla Gudeon (Illustrator)

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Book cover for The Language of Angels

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2018 Sydney Taylor Book Award
2017 National Jewish Book Award



In 1885, few Jews in Israel used the holy language of their ancestors, and Hebrew was in danger of being lost—until Ben Zion and his father got involved. Through the help of his father and a community of children, Ben modernized the ancient language, creating a lexicon of new, modern words to bring Hebrew back into common usage. Historically influenced dialogue, engaging characters, and colorful art offer a linguistic journey about how language develops and how one person's perseverance can make a real difference.

Influenced by illuminated manuscripts, Karla Gudeon’s illustrations bring Ben Zion—and the rebirth of Hebrew—to life.


A compelling emotional journey — Publisher's Weekly

A lively introduction to the work of a Hebrew language scholar and lover—and his family — Kirkus Reviews

A perfect resource for religious school collections and public library language shelves — Booklist

Hebrew teachers and students in Jewish schools will welcome this gorgeous new picture book about how the language developed and the impact of one person's perseverance on an entire people — School Library Journal
  • ISBN10 1580896367
  • ISBN13 9781580896368
  • Publish Date 21 February 2017
  • Publish Status Active
  • Publish Country US
  • Imprint Charlesbridge Publishing,U.S.