New illustrated booklet tells story of Torah

Just in time for Hanukkah, two members of Spokane’s Temple Beth Shalom have produced a booklet about the temple’s acquisition of a new Torah.

“The Brand New Torah,” written by Martin Schneider and illustrated by Steven Belzman, is a fictional account of questions young congregation members ask about the new Jewish holy book and how it will fit in with the temple’s older Torahs.

While it’s approachable for children, the story isn’t just aimed at them, Schneider said.

“Our hope is that younger people, older people, people of all religions would find some interest in it,” he said.

The booklet both commemorates the donation of a new Torah to Temple Beth Shalom in 2002, and explains the significance of its teachings, Schneider said.

The 24-page, pamphlet-size book is available for $5 at the temple gift shop, 1322 E. 30th Ave., or by e-mailing thenewtorah@ yahoo.com.