Indian Prairie Public Library Hosts Stories From Israel and Palestine

A cool, air-conditioned room on a scorching summer day was the perfect setting for Indian Prairie Public Library staff member Mary Jo Wolsky to introduce Darien children to life in two countries who are experiencing the same hot temperatures—Israel and Palestine.

“I’ve visited Israel, Palestine and also Jordan (where many Palestinians live) and thought the rich folklore and culture of the countries would be interesting to the children,” said Wolsky, an IPPL employee for 22 years.

Wolsky’s thoughtful preparation for the event, which was geared toward first- through third-graders in the summer reading program, was evident.

Palestinian music played as participants were greeted, and activity and food tables supervised by high school student volunteers Ashley Young, Olivia Romaine and Hannah Ooh caught the children’s eyes.

A brief geographical introduction was followed by Wolsky’s dynamic reading of an Israeli story about King Solomon and the Queen of Sheba, titled “The Wisest Man in the World” and “I Landed at The Prince’s Party,” a Palestinian folk-tale.

Wolsky relayed the moral of the stories to the children; the first lesson reaffirmed every creature’s value regardless of size and the second illustrated that riches and beauty are not as desirable as a clever wit.

The children participated in an Israeli dance called Mayim which celebrates water, created art depicting the ocean life in the Mediterranean Sea and “rebuilt” the old city of Jerusalem using Middle Eastern building blocks.

But the most fun aspect according to six-year-old participant Henri was the food.

“I liked the cake the best!” he exclaimed.

Henri was referring to the syrup-soaked cake that Wolsky purchased from the Palestine Bakery in Palos Hills, along with a tray of cookies.

The food spread also included apples, honey and a side of olives, which are important throughout the Middle East, Wolsky explained.