PJ Library’s Sephardic Stories Initiative (SSI) was launched in 2024 to inspire, motivate, and empower burgeoning authors of Sephardi and Mizrahi backgrounds to leverage their cultural histories and meaningfully add to the cannon of Jewish children’s literature. Since then, the program has supported two cohorts of historically underrepresented Jewish authors through network building, resource sharing, and editorial development. Now, PJ Library’s publishing imprint, PJ Publishing, is pleased to announce that it has secured four book deals with Sephardic Stories Initiative authors.
"PJ Publishing is excited to bring to life several of the manuscripts coming out of the Sephardic Stories Initiative," says Naomi Shulman, Managing Editor of PJ Publishing. "It's so important to add these perspectives and voices to the canon of Jewish children's literature. Now young Sephardi and Mizrahi readers will encounter more mirrors of their own cultural traditions in their books and maybe will even be inspired to write their own stories someday."
The four book deals made by PJ Publishing include:
Na’ima’s Shavuot Eve by Rinat Hadad Siegel, illustrated by Yinon Ptahia. This lushly illustrated picture book invites readers into the Jewish community of Iraq in the first half of the 20th century, where a young girl makes a valiant attempt to stay up all night to observe the Jewish holiday of Shavuot. Publication is tentatively slated for Spring 2027. Rinat was a member of SSI cohort two and three.
Pedahzur and the Quest for the Hidden City by Arnon Z. Shorr, illustrated by Reut Bortz: PJ Publishing’s first graphic novel for middle grade. Set in 1945 Libya, this story follows young Pedahzur as he teams up with a mysterious merchant and a talking cat to find the lost city of Derna—and the power to save his home. Publication is tentatively slated for early 2028. Arnon was a member of SSI cohort one.
Shai’s Lesson by Adam Eilath. When young Shai spends the school day tutoring another student, his father is irritated with the teacher. Shouldn’t his son be learning new material? But a visit to the beit din, the Jewish court, results in a new perspective for all. Set in 19th-century Morocco, this lyrical tale will be thought-provoking for children and parents alike. Adam was a member of SSI cohort two.
Signs of Magic by Nimrod Dweck. Big sister Nuzha seems to have all the answers—what day it is, how to get to the market, even which herbs Mama needs for dinner. Little sister Jamila can’t figure out how Nuzha always knows. Is it magic? Taking place in the lively, diverse Tiberias of the mid-1800s, this sweet story explores the many different ways that knowledge can take shape—and the magical bond of sisterhood. Nimrod was a member of SSI cohorts two and three.
Additional SSI authors have moved work forward with PJ Library, including:
Cohort two member Enid Baxter Ryce, whose middle grade novel has received an initial Grinspoon Jewish Story Award.
Cohort two member Erez Hadad, whose picture book, The Key, was selected for use by PJ Library’s sister program in Israel, Sifriyat Pijama.
Cohort one member Sarah Aroeste, whose board book Uno Dos Tres was published by PJ Publishing and sent to 1-year-olds in summer 2025.
A continuing story
Now in its third year, the program, which is made possible by the generous support of the Seattle-based Samis Foundation, continues to support emerging and mid-career children’s book writers inspired by Sephardi, Mizrahi, and Ethiopian traditions. The twelve members of the 2026 cohort, which began in January, were selected for the program based on their strong craft and authentic voices, each bringing a passion for telling the stories of historically underrepresented Jewish communities.
For twelve months, participants explore how Sephardic, Mizrahi, and Ethiopian cultures, languages, and histories can shape contemporary children’s literature. Ongoing programming includes monthly virtual workshops; an in-person retreat; conversations with agents, editors, and other industry professionals; close collaboration with one another; and direct editorial feedback from the PJ Library and PJ Publishing teams.
By year’s end, each writer will complete one polished book manuscript that is ready for consideration by PJ Library as well as a complete group anthology of their collected work. They’ll also collaborate closely on co-editing and peer review, and build a lasting community based on shared affinity for cultural storytelling and creative connection.
“We know how rare it is for writers to receive the time and space their craft deserves, and we’re honored to be supporting these writers in developing original stories rooted in their personal traditions and histories,” shares Alisa Koyrakh, Director of Books, PJ Library. "It’s also been incredible to watch the friendships and connections that have grown out of these cohorts, and I have no doubt this community will continue to flourish and write long after the fellowship ends.”
