With great pride and heartfelt gratitude, the creators of the beloved 613 Torah Avenue series announce the release of their newest and final volume, Sefer Devarimpublished by Judaica Press.
This highly anticipated book includes all the elements that have made the series a favorite for generations – vibrant, full-color illustrations, a CD featuring the original soundtrack, and a brand new adventure with the beloved character, Chaim.
For over 30 years, 613 Torah Avenue has brought the weekly parsha to life for children all over world and has become an essential teaching tool for parents and educators alike. The original audio tapes were treasured classics, and the books are continuing the legacy, making the parshios relatable and engaging for young readers.
The concept for the series began with two early childhood educators, Rivkah Neuman and Cheryle Knobel, whose creative vision has inspired three generations. The idea for the book series was first suggested by Cheryle’s granddaughter Perrel, who once told her, “Bobs, I think it’s time to do a book.”
Encouraged by Judaica Press, Rivkah and Cheryle were determined to produce a top-quality book that would captivate today’s children. They enlisted the talents of illustratorSarah Z, under the direction of Chani Judowitz, whose artwork brings each page to life. The result is a book that’s visually stunning, durable, and designed to endure hours of enjoyment. The songs are simple yet meaningful and are easy for children to sing along with, using familiar and engaging melodies.
Publishing Sefer Devarimpresented its own unique challenges, Cheryle says. “It’s not studied as often in schools,” she explains. “Children don’t know it as well as they do the other four Chumashim.”
To overcome that challenge, the storyline places Chaim in everyday settings that children can relate to. He visits a shopping mall with a barber shop, a toy store,and a supermarket where he meets a cast of whimsical characters, including talking eggs, Colonel Corn, and lots of others. His adventures introduce the key themes of the parshios in Devarim, making them easy and fun to learn. And the humor that defines the 613 Torah Avenue series is alive and well in this final volume, keeping the experience fresh, exciting, and timeless.
While the release of Sefer Devarim marks the conclusion of the series on Chumash, the journey isn’t over. Rivkah and Cheryle, along with Judaica Press, are considering future publications focusing on the seasons,PirkeiAvos, and tefillah.
“It’s not over,” says Cheryle. “As long as we can help the next generation learn Torah with excitement and anticipation, we will keep going.”
Sefer Devarim is now available at Judaica stores nationwide and online at www.judaicapress.com.
