PJ Library Presents: Beyond The Bookcase

One of Marion’s kids is getting ready for her Bat-Mitzvah, but she’s so nervous. The kids are there to help – along with special guests Cinderella and Prince Charming. For more about preparing to have a bar or bat mitzvah, head to pjlibrary.org/blog for expert advice and tips from Rabbi Rebecca Rosenthal.    Beyond the Bookcase is a production of PJ Library  Writers: Jan Schwaid and Petey Gibson  Production:  Executive Producer: Alli Thresher  Digital Production Coordinator: Megan Bagala  Audio Editing, mixing, mastering and score: Peter Moore, Palace of Purpose Studios in Malden, MA  Opening Theme Song: Written by Peter Moore and Alli Thresher. Arranged by Peter Moore.  Performed by Mister G (vocals) and Peter Moore (instruments)    CAST:  Auntie PJ: Laura Rondinella  Micah: Maxwell Glick  Miri: Arianna Fox  Blue: Maya Aoki Tuttle  Evie: Sylvia Beth Schmitz  Jacob: Rebecca Lee  Mr. Saifair: Gregory David Barnett  Marion: Tianna Tagami  Shoshana: Lori Hoch Stiefel  Golem: Pat Bordenave  Cinderella: Gwen D’Angelo  Charming: Michael D’Angelo 

Blue is feeling a little let down by their friends this week – can a trip to Mashal, and a chat with Queenie and Mr. Saifair help?   Beyond the Bookcase is a production of PJ Library  Writers: Jan Schwaid and Petey Gibson  Production:  Executive Producer: Alli Thresher  Digital Production Coordinator: Megan Bagala  Audio Editing, mixing, mastering and score: Peter Moore, Palace of Purpose Studios in Malden, MA  Opening Theme Song: Written by Peter Moore and Alli Thresher. Arranged by Peter Moore.  Performed by Mister G (vocals) and Peter Moore (instruments)    CAST:  Blue: Maya Aoki Tuttle  Micah: Maxwell Glick  Jacob: Cara Cabal Coniglio  Auntie PJ: Laura Rondinella  Mr. Saifair: Gregory David Barnett  Queenie: Niki Luparelli 

You know her, you love her – she's Marion, the not-so-old woman who used to live in a shoe. Sometimes she still does... mostly she lives in a giant pumpkin with her many MANY children. Season 5 has a special surprise in store for our friend Marion, so let’s take a walk down memory lane through some of her most memorable episodes. Enjoy!     And don’t forget to leave PJ Library Presents: Beyond the Bookcase on your favorite podcast platforms.    Beyond the Bookcase is a production of PJ Library.  Production: Producer, Alli Thresher; Digital Coordinator, Megan Bagala  Audio editing, mixing, mastering, and score: Peter Moore, Palace of Purpose Studios in Malden, MA  Opening Theme Song: Written by Peter Moore and Alli Thresher. Arranged by Peter Moore.  Performed by Mister G (vocals) and Peter Moore (instruments).    Episode credits:   Goldilocks and the Tzedakah Project:  Writers: Jan Schwaid, Petey Gibson  Cast  Micah – Maxwell Glick  Miri - Arianna Fox  Jacob - Cara Cabal Coniglio  Evie - Sylvia Beth Schmitz  Blue - Maya Aoki Tuttle  Auntie PJ – Madelaine Ripley  Golem - Pat Bordenave  Mr. Saifair – Tau Zaman  Goldilocks - Maya Aoki Tuttle  Baby Bear - Rich Wentworth    Story for Another Time: Passover in Mashal  Writers: Jan Schwaid, Petey Gibson  Cast  Miri - Arianna Fox  Evie - Samantha Philyaw  Blue - Maya Aoki Tuttle  Jacob - Caro Cabal Coniglio  Joha - Ryan Abedi  Elijah - Nate DuFort  Auntie PJ - Laura Rondinella  Micah - Maxwell Glick  Mr. Saifair - Gregory David Barnett  Marion, the Woman in the Shoe - Tianna Tagami  Chicken Little - Blair Which  Snow White - Laura Schreiber  Golem - Pat Bordenave  Cinderella - Gwen D'Angelo  Humpty Dumpty - John Henry Kurtz  Dolores the Donkey - Alli Thresher    Mermaid Murmurs  Writers: Jan Schwaid, Petey Gibson  Cast  Elijah – Nate DuFort  Rapunzel – Daniella Rabbani  Mr. Saifair – Gregory David Barnett  Kid/Daughter – Alli Thresher  Junie the Mermaid – Yolanda Spearman  Prince Charming – Mike D'Angelo  Cinderella – Gwen D'Angelo  Marion the Not-So-Old Woman Who Lives in a Shoe – Tianna Tagami    Golem's Challah  Writers: Jan Schwaid, Petey Gibson  Cast  Auntie PJ – Laura Rondinella  Elijah – Nate DuFort  Marion, the Not-So-Old Woman Who Lives in a Shoe – Tianna Tagami  Kids 1,2,3 - Alli Thresher  Golem – Pat Bordenave  Don Swan – LD Castro 

Rules are important – but are they fixed? Are there ever circumstances where a rule can or should be broken? Are there ways to reinterpret rules, even if they’ve been around for a very long time? The kids explore these questions with Queenie, Golem, and… another Golem?!     Beyond the Bookcase is a production of PJ Library  Writers: Jan Schwaid and Petey Gibson  Production:  Executive Producer: Alli Thresher  Digital Production Coordinator: Megan Bagala  Audio Editing, mixing, mastering and score: Peter Moore, Palace of Purpose Studios in Malden, MA  Opening Theme Song: Written by Peter Moore and Alli Thresher. Arranged by Peter Moore.  Performed by Mister G (vocals) and Peter Moore (instruments)    CAST:  Evie: Samantha Philyaw  Micah: Maxwell Glick  Auntie PJ: Laura Rondinella  Golem: Pat Bordenave  Golem 2.0: Pat Bordenave  Queenie: Niki Luparelli 

Chag Sameach! Enjoy a Hanukkah gift from PJ Library: a curated playlist of stories just for you. Whether you enjoy these on the way to a gathering with friends or snuggled up enjoying the light of the candles, we wish all of our listeners a wonderful Hanukkah. For more Hanukkah fun, download our free guide, A Time to Hope or visit pjlibrary.org/hanukkah. Episode Credits Beyond the Bookcase is a production of PJ Library. Producer: Alli Thresher Writers: Jan Schwaid, Petey Gibson Audio editing, mixing, mastering, and score: Peter Moore, Palace of Purpose Studios in Malden, MA Opening Theme Song: Written by Peter Moore and Alli Thresher. Arranged by Peter Moore. Performed by Mister G (vocals) and Peter Moore (instruments).

November is Mizrahi Heritage Month - celebrating the culture and customs of Mizrahi Jews - those with heritage from around the Middle East, Southwest Asia and North Africa. In this playlist, listeners will attend a Persian Passover, celebrate Chag Habanot with the mermaids of Mashal, and prepare a special dish for Shabbat. To learn more and to find books featuring Mizrahi characters and stories, visit pjlibrary.org. The background music in the intro is licensed through Epidemic Sound. Beyond the Bookcase is a production of PJ Library. Production: Executive Producer, Alli Thresher Audio editing, mixing, mastering, and score: Peter Moore, Palace of Purpose Studios in Malden, MA Opening Theme Song: Written by Peter Moore and Alli Thresher. Arranged by Peter Moore. Performed by Mister G (vocals) and Peter Moore (instruments). Episode Credits: Chasing Joha Through Passover Writers: Jan Schwaid, Petey Gibson Auntie PJ - Madelaine Ripley Evie - Samantha Philyaw Elijah - Nate DuFort Micah - Maxwell Glick Ms. Shouhed - Daniella Rabbani Farrah - Daniella Rabbani Joha - Ryan Abedi Mr. Fodor - Les Horovitz Catriella - Alli Thresher It's Chag Habanot Writers: Jan Schwaid and Rinat Hadad Siegel Cultural Consultant: Rinat Hadad Siegel Auntie PJ – Laura Rondinella Rapunzel – Daniella Rabbani Snow White – Laura Schreiber Marion, the not-so-old woman who lives in a shoe - Tianna Tagami Cinderella – Gwen D’Angelo Prince Charming – Mike D’Angelo Mr. Saifair – Gregory David Barnett Queenie (Queen Bee) – Niki Luparelli Mama Bear – Yolanda Spearman Mary Quite Contrary – Journee LaFond Mermaid – Yolanda Spearman Mermaid (last line) – Tianna Tagami Spice Up Your Life Writer: Jan Schwaid Cultural Consultant: Rinat Hadad Siegel Auntie PJ – Laura Rondinella Elijah – Nate DuFort Goldilocks: Maya Aoki Tuttle Baby Bear – Rich Wentworth Mr. Saifair – Gregory David Barnett Mary Quite Contrary – Journee La Fond

Hi listeners! While the Beyond the Bookcase team works on the second half of Season 5, we have a very special bonus episode: a chat with a real-life monster expert! Join Golem and producer Alli as they sit down with Jack Zaientz from JewishMonsterHunting.com.    If your children are into monsters, magic, and folklore, this episode features a creative look into the background of some of the creatures and characters living in the magical land of Mashal.    This episode was written by Alli Thresher and Jack Zaientz. You can check out Jack and John Baltisberger's podcast for grown-ups at https://waywardchildren.buzzsprout.com Beyond the Bookcase is a production of PJ Library Opening Theme Song: Written by Peter Moore and Alli Thresher. Arranged by Peter Moore. Performed by Mister G (vocals) and Peter Moore (instruments) More for kids who love monsters and folklore:  Jewish Picture Books for Kids Who Love Monsters Og Goes Rogue: A Modern Folktale About Og the Giant (mentioned in the show) Meet the Land of Mashal's Farmer Serach in the Season 2 finale

It's Sukkot in Mashal - what could be more fun? Join Miri and Micah as they are welcomed into the community sukkah by Zev, Farmer Serach, and some very boisterous little piggies. To learn all about sukkot - and figure out how to build your very own teeny tiny sukkah like Miri and Micah, head to pjlibrary.org/sukkot. Credits:  Beyond the Bookcase is a production of PJ Library. Production: Executive Producer, Alli Thresher Writers: Petey Gibson and Jan Schwaid Audio editing, mixing, mastering, and score: Peter Moore, Palace of Purpose Studios in Malden, MA Opening Theme Song: Written by Peter Moore and Alli Thresher. Arranged by Peter Moore. Performed by Mister G (vocals) and Peter Moore (instruments) Cast Micah – Maxwell Glick Miri – Arianna Fox PJ - Laura Rondinella Famer Serach -- Daniella Rabbani Various little pigs -- Alli Thresher  

Hi Listeners, Did you know that it’s almost time for Rosh Hashanah? The Beyond the Bookcase team sends your family wishes for a High Holiday season and new year full of love, health, happiness, and (of course) great Jewish stories – just like the Rosh Hashanah-themed ones in this playlist. For more ideas - and to download our free holiday guide, visit pjlibrary.org/RoshHashanah   Shanah Tovah! Credits: Beyond the Bookcase is a production of PJ Library. Production: Executive Producer, Alli Thresher Writers: Jan Schwaid and Petey Gibson Consultant: Rinat Hadad Siegel Audio editing, mixing, mastering, and score: Peter Moore, Palace of Purpose Studios in Malden, MA Opening Theme Song: Written by Peter Moore and Alli Thresher. Arranged by Peter Moore. Performed by Mister G (vocals) and Peter Moore (instruments) A Fairytale Feud (cast): Snow White – Laura Golem – Pat Bordenave Mr. Saifair - Gregory David Barnett PJ - Laura Rondinella Elijah – Nate DuFort Kitten 1 - Malcolm Villaverde Kitten 2 - Molly Villaverde Kitten 3 - Blair Which Pigs 1, 2, 3 – Rich Wentworth The Kids Prepare a Rosh Hashanah Seder Evie: Samantha Philyaw Blue: Maya Aoki Tuttle Auntie PJ: Laura Rondinella Jacob: Rebecca Lee Mama Bear: Yolanda Spearman Mary Quite Contrary: Journee LaFond Turnaround Teshuva Evie: Samantha Philyaw Auntie PJ: Laura Rondinella Jacob: Rebecca Lee The Saifairs: Gregory David Barnett Golem – Pat Bordenave

Evie and Jacob are getting on each other's nerves--to save their friendship, Auntie PJ sends the kids on an errand to Mashal. Come along as Mr. Saifair, Golem, and special guest, Dafi Saifair, help the kids make amends, and return to their best selves in the new year.  Credits Beyond the Bookcase is a production of PJ Library. Production: Executive Producer, Alli Thresher Writers: Petey Gibson and Jan Schwaid Audio editing, mixing, mastering, and score: Peter Moore, Palace of Purpose Studios in Malden, MA Opening Theme Song: Written by Peter Moore and Alli Thresher. Arranged by Peter Moore. Performed by Mister G (vocals) and Peter Moore (instruments). Cast: Evie: Samantha Philyaw Auntie PJ: Laura Rondinella Jacob: Rebecca Lee The Saifairs: Gregory David Barnett Golem – Pat Bordenave

The kids pop over to Mashal to deliver some Rosh Hashanah cards (and try to cheer up Jacob). While Mama Bear and Mary Quite Contrary prepare for a seder, the kids learn all about the simanim, symbolic foods of Rosh Hashanah, and receive some perfect advice for starting the year off right. Credits Beyond the Bookcase is a production of PJ Library. Production: Executive Producer, Alli Thresher Writers: Jan Schwaid and Petey Gibson Consultant: Rinat Hadad Siegel Audio editing, mixing, mastering, and score: Peter Moore, Palace of Purpose Studios in Malden, MA Opening Theme Song: Written by Peter Moore and Alli Thresher. Arranged by Peter Moore. Performed by Mister G (vocals) and Peter Moore (instruments). Cast: Evie: Samantha Philyaw Blue: Maya Aoki Tuttle Auntie PJ: Laura Rondinella Jacob: Rebecca Lee Mama Bear: Yolanda Spearman Mary Quite Contrary: Journee LaFond  

Welcome back listeners! Today Chicken Little has a feeling, Bubbe has a vision, and Snow White has a handy solution. Join the crew as we learn about the mitzvah of visiting the sick in the Season 5 Premiere of Beyond the Bookcase.  Beyond the Bookcase is a production of PJ Library. Production: Executive Producer, Alli Thresher Writers: Jan Schwaid, Petey Gibson Audio editing, mixing, mastering, and score: Peter Moore, Palace of Purpose Studios in Malden, MA Opening Theme Song: Written by Peter Moore and Alli Thresher. Arranged by Peter Moore. Performed by Mister G (vocals) and Peter Moore (instruments). Cast: Chicken Little: Blair Which Bubbe: Edrie Evie: Samantha Philyaw Micah: Maxwell Glick Snow White: Laura Schreiber Auntie PJ: Laura Rondinella Various voices: Alli Thresher

Beyond the Bookcase will return with new episodes this August! For now, enjoy a special note from Golem, a listener shoutout, and a playlist of our clay protector's favorite stories.  For full cast information and credits, please go to pjlibrary.org/podcast

In honor of National Storytelling Month, the PJ Library team has put together a small selection of "stories for another time" from Beyond the Bookcase seasons 4 and 5. Enjoy!

It's time for Passover! Settle in for a playlist full of stories featuring Passover traditions from all around the world.  In Humpty Dumpty and the Passover Feast we’ll visit Humpty Dumpty as he prepares to host the seder for the first time. Next we'll Chase Joha Through Passover to see how families all over celebrate and get ready for Passover. And finally, we’ll settle down for a lovely Passover seder in Mashal in a special Story for Another Time. Credits Beyond the Bookcase is a production of PJ Library. Writers: Jan Schwaid, Petey Gibson Production: Executive Producer, Alli Thresher; Associate Producer, Elizabeth Korelitz Audio editing, mixing, mastering, and score: Peter Moore, Palace of Purpose Studios in Malden, MA Opening Theme Song: Written by Peter Moore and Alli Thresher. Arranged by Peter Moore. Performed by Mister G (vocals) and Peter Moore (instruments). Humpty Dumpty and the Passover Feast Cast Jacob – Cara Cabal Coniglio Evie – Sylvia Beth Schmitz Blue – Maya Aoki Tuttle Micah – Maxwell Glick Miri – Arianna Fox Auntie PJ – Madelaine Ripley Golem – Pat Bordenave Saifair – Tau Zaman Humpty Dumpty – John Henry Kurtz Hare – Daniel Amerman Goldilocks – Maya Aoki Tuttle Snow White – Laura Schreiber Chicken Little – Blair Which Chasing Joha Through Passover Cast Auntie PJ – Madelaine Ripley Evie – Samantha Philyaw Elijah – Nate DuFort Micah – Maxwell Glick Ms. Shouhed – Daniella Rabbani Farrah – Daniella Rabbani Joha – Ryan Abedi Mr. Fodor – Les Horovitz Catriella – Alli Thresher Story for Another Time: Passover in Mashal Cast Miri – Arianna Fox Evie – Samantha Philyaw Blue – Maya Aoki Tuttle Jacob – Caro Cabal Coniglio Joha – Ryan Abedi Elijah – Nate DuFort Auntie PJ – Laura Rondinella Micah – Maxwell Glick Mr. Saifair – Gregory David Barnett Marion Woman in Shoe – Tianna Tagami Chicken Little – Blair Which Snow White – Laura Schreiber Golem – Pat Bordenave Cinderella – Gwen D'Angelo Humpty Dumpty – John Henry Kurtz Dolores the Donkey – Alli Thresher

Prince Charming and Cinderella’s wedding brings a fairytale ending for season 4! Or at least it might. The two royals come from very different backgrounds and can’t seem to agree on what traditions, customs, and creatures to include in the ceremony. They’ll need their friends (including a shockingly revealed rabbi) to help figure out what’s most important.   Credits   Beyond the Bookcase is a production of PJ Library. Executive Producer, Alli Thresher Associate Producer, Elizabeth Korelitz Story Editor: Alli Thresher Writer: Jan Schwaid Audio editing, mixing, mastering, and score: Peter Moore, Palace of Purpose Studios in Malden, MA Opening Theme Song: Written by Peter Moore and Alli Thresher Arranged by Peter Moore Performed by Mister G (vocals) and Peter Moore (instruments)   Cast Cinderella - Gwen D’Angelo Prince Charming - Mike D’Angelo Mr. Saifair – Gregory David Barnett Auntie PJ – Laura Rondinella Golem – Pat Bordenave Marion, The Not-So-Old Woman Who Lives in a Shoe - Tianna Tagami Dolores the Donkey – Alli Thresher

Lag B’Omer celebrations are starting in Mashal. With bonfires, treats, a parade, and even a wedding in the works, Rapunzel still isn’t feeling festive. After getting tangled in a few too many messes, her extra-long hair is feeling like a real drag. Auntie PJ and other friends will try to help Rapunzel trim down her stress with a Lag B’Omer tradition.   Credits   Beyond the Bookcase is a production of PJ Library.Production: Executive Producer, Alli Thresher; Associate Producer, Elizabeth Korelitz Story Editor: Alli Thresher Writer: Petey Gibson Audio editing, mixing, mastering, and score: Peter Moore, Palace of Purpose Studios in Malden, MA   Opening Theme Song: Written by Peter Moore and Alli Thresher. Arranged by Peter Moore. Performed by Mister G (vocals) and Peter Moore (instruments).   Cast Mr. Saifair – Gregory David Barnett Auntie PJ – Laura Rondinella Rapunzel – Daniella Rabbani Cinderella – Gwen D’Angelo Prince Charming - Mike D’Angelo Merry Men- Gregory David Barnett, Pat Bordenave, Walter Alice Sickert, Nate DuFort Golem – Pat Bordenave

Auntie PJ and Elijah’s treasure hunt gets sticky, and not just because of their doughnut-smeared map. It’s almost time for Shabbat and they need to pause their search — not to start resting right away, but to help the woman who lives in a shoe. You see, she has so many children but nowhere to get them a challah for a peaceful sabbath. Who knew Golem’s got bread-braiding skills?   Credits Beyond the Bookcase is a production of PJ Library. Production: Executive Producer, Alli Thresher; Associate Producer, Elizabeth Korelitz Story Editor: Alli Thresher Writer: Petey Gibson Audio editing, mixing, mastering, and score: Peter Moore, Palace of Purpose Studios in Malden, MA Opening Theme Song: Written by Peter Moore and Alli Thresher. Arranged by Peter Moore. Performed by Mister G (vocals) and Peter Moore (instruments).   Cast Auntie PJ – Laura Rondinella Elijah – Nate DuFort Marion, the Not-So-Old Woman Who Lives in a Shoe – Tianna Tagami Kids 1,2,3 - Alli Thresher Golem – Pat Bordenave Don Swan – LD Castro

Bubbe and Zev the wolf are having a blast as roommates. They’ve had music, dancing, and pre-Shabbat shindigs, but there hasn’t been room in their budget to fill their bellies on Friday nights. When neither of them is able to earn enough dough to surprise the other with challah, their kind acts may be just the ingredients they need for a fresh-baked miracle. An update on a classic Jewish folk tale.   Credits   Beyond the Bookcase is a production of PJ Library. Production: Executive Producer, Alli Thresher; Associate Producer, Elizabeth Korelitz Story Editor: Alli Thresher Writer: Petey Gibson Audio editing, mixing, mastering, and score: Peter Moore, Palace of Purpose Studios in Malden, MA Opening Theme Song: Written by Peter Moore and Alli Thresher. Arranged by Peter Moore. Performed by Mister G (vocals) and Peter Moore (instruments).   Cast Golem – Pat Bordenave Auntie PJ – Laura Rondinella Zev – Walter Alice Sickert Little Red – Anne Alexander Sieder Bubbe – Edrie Kids –Richard Wentworth, Alli Thresher, Blair Which Random Folks – Richard Wentworth, Alli Thresher, Blair Which Very Little Kid – Blair Which

Who told Mr. Saifair that Rapunzel is a noodle-head? Is it okay to call Shirley an apple tree (when she’s obviously avocado)? And did Prince Charming spread a hairy rumor that he heard from … a mermaid? This wave of gossip is more tangled than a head of uncombed spaghetti.   Credits   Beyond the Bookcase is a production of PJ Library. Production: Executive Producer, Alli Thresher; Associate Producer, Elizabeth Korelitz Story Editor: Alli Thresher Writer: Jan Schwaid Audio editing, mixing, mastering, and score: Peter Moore, Palace of Purpose Studios in Malden, MA Opening Theme Song: Written by Peter Moore and Alli Thresher. Arranged by Peter Moore. Performed by Mister G (vocals) and Peter Moore (instruments).   Cast Elijah – Nate DuFort Rapunzel – Daniella Rabbani Mr. Saifair – Gregory David Barnett Kid/Daughter – Alli Thresher Junie the Mermaid – Yolanda Spearman Prince Charming – Mike D'Angelo Cinderella – Gwen D'Angelo Marion the Not-So-Old Woman Who Lives in a Shoe – Tianna Tagami

Marion is hosting a gathering for Chag Habanot, the North African Hanukkah festival of daughters. But all the pressure has her being a bit unkind to her friends. Learn all about this holiday plus a valuable lesson about respect and friendship.   Credits   Beyond the Bookcase is a production of PJ Library. Production: Executive Producer, Alli Thresher; Associate Producer, Elizabeth Korelitz Story Editor: Alli Thresher Writers: Jan Schwaid and Rinat Hadad Siegel Consultant: Rinat Hadad Siegel Audio editing, mixing, mastering, and score: Peter Moore, Palace of Purpose Studios in Malden, MA Opening Theme Song: Written by Peter Moore and Alli Thresher. Arranged by Peter Moore. Performed by Mister G (vocals) and Peter Moore (instruments).   Cast Auntie PJ – Laura Rondinella Rapunzel – Daniella Rabbani Snow White – Laura Schreiber Marion, the not-so-old woman who lives in a shoe - Tianna Tagami Cinderella – Gwen D’Angelo Prince Charming – Mike D’Angelo Mr. Saifair – Gregory David Barnett Queenie (Queen Bee) – Niki Luparelli Mama Bear – Yolanda Spearman Mary Quite Contrary – Journee LaFond Mermaid – Yolanda Spearman Mermaid (last line) – Tianna Tagami

What do BFFs Goldilocks and Baby Bear make for their Shabbat lunch? Why, harissa of course! But what happens when everyone brings the same pot to the kusha (community oven)? A tasting, of course.   Credits   Beyond the Bookcase is a production of PJ Library. Production: Executive Producer, Alli Thresher; Associate Producer, Elizabeth Korelitz Story Editor: Alli Thresher Writer: Jan Schwaid Audio editing, mixing, mastering, and score: Peter Moore, Palace of Purpose Studios in Malden, MA Opening Theme Song: Written by Peter Moore and Alli Thresher. Arranged by Peter Moore. Performed by Mister G (vocals) and Peter Moore (instruments).   Cast Auntie PJ – Laura Rondinella Elijah – Nate DuFort Goldilocks: Maya Aoki Tuttle Baby Bear – Rich Wentworth Mr. Saifair – Gregory David Barnett Mary Quite Contrary – Journee La Fond

Snow White just wants to host a delightful Rosh Hashanah get together, but the three little kittens and the three little pigs are having one big disagreement. Will they ever forgive each other?   Credits   Beyond the Bookcase is a production of PJ Library. Production: Executive Producer, Alli Thresher; Associate Producer, Elizabeth Korelitz Story Editor: Alli Thresher Writers: Petey Gibson Audio editing, mixing, mastering, and score: Peter Moore, Palace of Purpose Studios in Malden, MA Opening Theme Song: Written by Peter Moore and Alli Thresher. Arranged by Peter Moore. Performed by Mister G (vocals) and Peter Moore (instruments).   Cast Snow White – Laura Golem – Pat Bordenave Mr. Saifair - Gregory David Barnett PJ - Laura Rondinella Elijah – Nate DuFort Kitten 1 - Malcolm Villaverde Kitten 2 - Molly Villaverde Kitten 3 - Blair Which Pigs 1, 2, 3 – Rich Wentworth

Purim is a holiday that feels like it's made for families. Traditions include dressing up, sharing gift baskets or mishloach manot with friends, making noise by shaking groggers, and staying up late with your friends and community. People do tzedakah and also read the Book of Esther, or megillah, which shares the story of how the Jews of Persia were saved from annihilation. Experience Purim with the characters of Beyond the Bookcase in this special playlist episode. 

Sorry, but we’re not gonna spoil the season finale right here, so don’t expect this to tell you if the kids catch elusive Joha, save Sofer Shalom, or finally get to hear PJ and Elijah’s long-held secret story. You’ll just have to listen.   Credits   Beyond the Bookcase is a production of PJ Library. Production: Executive Producer, Alli Thresher; Associate Producer, Elizabeth Korelitz Story Editor: Petey Gibson Writers: Jan Schwaid, Petey Gibson Audio editing, mixing, mastering, and score: Peter Moore, Palace of Purpose Studios in Malden, MA Opening Theme Song: Written by Peter Moore and Alli Thresher. Arranged by Peter Moore. Performed by Mister G (vocals) and Peter Moore (instruments).   Cast   Elijah - Nate DuFort Evie - Samantha Philyaw Auntie PJ - Laura Rondinella Miri - Arianna Fox Jacob - Caro Cabal Coniglio Blue - Maya Aoki Tuttle Micah - Maxwell Glick Troll - Peter Moore Joha - Ryan Abedi

The kids want Auntie PJ and Elijah to finally tell all about their legendary treasure hunt, but the grownups try to skirt the subject with “A Story For Another Time.” This one delves into lovable Zev’s first holiday in Mashal.   Credits   Beyond the Bookcase is a production of PJ Library. Production: Executive Producer, Alli Thresher; Associate Producer, Elizabeth Korelitz Story Editor: Petey Gibson Writers: Jan Schwaid, Petey Gibson Audio editing, mixing, mastering, and score: Peter Moore, Palace of Purpose Studios in Malden, MA Opening Theme Song: Written by Peter Moore and Alli Thresher. Arranged by Peter Moore. Performed by Mister G (vocals) and Peter Moore (instruments).   Cast Elijah - Nate DuFort Evie - Samantha Philyaw Auntie PJ - Laura Rondinella Miri - Arianna Fox Jacob - Caro Cabal Coniglio Blue - Maya Aoki Tuttle Micah - Maxwell Glick Golem - Pat Bordenave Pig 1 - James Gracik Pig 2 - James Gracik Pig 3 - James Gracik Zev - Walter Alice Sickert Joha - Ryan Abedi

The kids are playing an epic game of pretend in the woods when they’re interrupted by none other than Joha! What’s he up to now?   Credits   Beyond the Bookcase is a production of PJ Library. Production: Executive Producer, Alli Thresher; Associate Producer, Elizabeth Korelitz Story Editor: Petey Gibson Writers: Jan Schwaid, Petey Gibson Audio editing, mixing, mastering, and score: Peter Moore, Palace of Purpose Studios in Malden, MA Opening Theme Song: Written by Peter Moore and Alli Thresher. Arranged by Peter Moore. Performed by Mister G (vocals) and Peter Moore (instruments).   Cast Jacob - Caro Cabal Coniglio Evie - Samantha Philyaw Blue - Maya Aoki Tuttle Micah - Maxwell Glick Miri - Arianna Fox Joha - Ryan Abedi Auntie PJ - Laura Rondinella    

Passover in Mashal is as enchanting as you’d expect. But who hosts the best seder, Cinderella or Snow White? Follow Auntie PJ and Elijah as they seder-hop through Mashal in this “Story For Another Time.”   Credits Beyond the Bookcase is a production of PJ Library. Production: Executive Producer, Alli Thresher; Associate Producer, Elizabeth Korelitz Story Editor: Petey Gibson Writers: Jan Schwaid, Petey Gibson Audio editing, mixing, mastering, and score: Peter Moore, Palace of Purpose Studios in Malden, MA Opening Theme Song: Written by Peter Moore and Alli Thresher. Arranged by Peter Moore. Performed by Mister G (vocals) and Peter Moore (instruments).   Cast Miri - Arianna Fox Evie - Samantha Philyaw Blue - Maya Aoki Tuttle Jacob - Caro Cabal Coniglio Joha - Ryan Abedi Elijah - Nate DuFort Auntie PJ - Laura Rondinella Micah - Maxwell Glick Mr. Saifair - Gregory David Barnett Marion Woman in Shoe - Tianna Tagami Chicken Little - Blair Which Snow White - Laura Schreiber Golem - Pat Bordenave Cinderella - Gwen D'Angelo Humpty Dumpty - John Henry Kurtz Dolores the Donkey - Alli Thresher

It’s the Passover episode! Learn about Passover traditions from around the world as the kids continue their globe-trotting search for Joha.   Credits Beyond the Bookcase is a production of PJ Library. Production: Executive Producer, Alli Thresher; Associate Producer, Elizabeth Korelitz Story Editor: Petey Gibson Writers: Jan Schwaid, Petey Gibson Audio editing, mixing, mastering, and score: Peter Moore, Palace of Purpose Studios in Malden, MA Opening Theme Song: Written by Peter Moore and Alli Thresher. Arranged by Peter Moore. Performed by Mister G (vocals) and Peter Moore (instruments).   Cast Auntie PJ - Madelaine Ripley Evie - Samantha Philyaw Elijah - Nate DuFort Micah - Maxwell Glick Ms. Shouhed - Daniella Rabbani Farrah - Daniella Rabbani Joha - Ryan Abedi Mr. Fodor - Les Horovitz Catriella - Alli Thresher

Each Friday evening, families around the world begin the celebration of Shabbat. For many, the evening includes favorite foods, company for dinner, special songs, and blessings. This week, we have a playlist featuring stories all about Shabbat.  If you like what you hear, be sure to visit our other shows, just search PJ Library to find more Shabbat stories and much more.

The kids enjoy hearing another “Story For Another Time.” This one involves the butcher, the baker, and the candlestick maker. Auntie PJ and Elijah collaborate on a tale about collaboration, and how it makes for the perfect Shabbat. They’ll talk about the Jewish value of… upcycling? But it’s unclear if PJ and Elijah will ever talk about treasure.   Credits Beyond the Bookcase is a production of PJ Library. Production: Executive Producer, Alli Thresher; Associate Producer, Elizabeth Korelitz Story Editor: Petey Gibson Writers: Jan Schwaid, Petey Gibson Audio editing, mixing, mastering, and score: Peter Moore, Palace of Purpose Studios in Malden, MA Opening Theme Song: Written by Peter Moore and Alli Thresher. Arranged by Peter Moore. Performed by Mister G (vocals) and Peter Moore (instruments). Cast Miri - Arianna Fox Micah - Maxwell Glick Evie - Samantha Philyaw Jacob - Caro Cabal Coniglio Blue - Maya Aoki Tuttle Elijah - Nate DuFort Auntie PJ - Madelaine Ripley Butcher - Nazeeh Tarsha Baker - LD Castro Candlestick Maker - Rebecca Cunningham Vendor 1 - Rebecca Cunningham Vendor 2 - LD Castro Vendor 3 - Nazeeh Tarsha

A special Hanukkah message from PJ Library. Hanukkah begins in the evening tonight (or, depending on your time zone, may have already started) and runs through December 15, 2023. This year, PJ Library encourages all of our listeners to "share the light" by participating in Project Menorah.  To learn more about Project Menorah, visit www.projectmenorah.com.  Music credits: “Stars in the Night” by Megan Wofford, licensed via Epidemic Sound

It's the season of Jewish heroes. Everyone is in the library getting ready for Purim when the kids discover a clue from Joha. Find out where the magic atlas will take them this week, how good PJ’s French accent is, and how many jelly beans Elijah can eat. To learn more about the Jewish holiday of Purim, visit pjlibrary.org/purim.   Credits Beyond the Bookcase is a production of PJ Library. Production: Executive Producer, Alli Thresher; Associate Producer, Elizabeth Korelitz Story Editor: Petey Gibson Writers: Jan Schwaid, Petey Gibson Audio editing, mixing, mastering, and score: Peter Moore, Palace of Purpose Studios in Malden, MA Opening Theme Song: Written by Peter Moore and Alli Thresher. Arranged by Peter Moore. Performed by Mister G (vocals) and Peter Moore (instruments). Cast Miri - Arianna Fox Micah - Maxwell Glick Evie - Samantha Philyaw Jacob - Caro Cabal Coniglio Blue - Maya Aoki Tuttle Elijah - Nate DuFort Auntie PJ - Madelaine Ripley Joha - Ryan Abedi  

Right now, you might be on a long car or airplane ride, or maybe you're snuggling in a nice comfy blanket fort. Today we're bringing you a playlist of stories about sharing special family traditions. Enjoy!

New this season, it’s Stories for Another Time. PJ and Elijah regale the kids with an only-partly familiar fairy tale featuring Cinderella, Prince Charming, a High Holidays party, and a new pair of shoes.   Credits Beyond the Bookcase is a production of PJ Library. Production: Executive Producer, Alli Thresher; Associate Producer, Elizabeth Korelitz Story Editor: Petey Gibson Writers: Jan Schwaid, Petey Gibson Audio editing, mixing, mastering, and score: Peter Moore, Palace of Purpose Studios in Malden, MA Opening Theme Song: Written by Peter Moore and Alli Thresher. Arranged by Peter Moore. Performed by Mister G (vocals) and Peter Moore (instruments).   Cast Miri - Arianna Fox Micah - Maxwell Glick Evie - Samantha Philyaw Jacob - Caro Cabal Coniglio Blue - Maya Aoki Tuttle Elijah - Nate DuFort Auntie PJ - Madelaine Ripley Cinderella - Gwen D'Angelo Prince - Mike D'Angelo Golem - Pat Bordenave Snow White - Laura Schreiber

Jacob is busy teaching Blue how to land an ollie when his skateboard goes missing. This has to be the work of Joha. Miri, Blue, and Jacob join PJ and Elijah as the game begins. Join them as they try to find Joha, find Jacob’s skateboard, and find out if pizza is allowed in the library.   Credits Beyond the Bookcase is a production of PJ Library. Production: Executive Producer, Alli Thresher; Associate Producer, Elizabeth Korelitz Story Editor: Petey Gibson Writers: Jan Schwaid, Petey Gibson Audio editing, mixing, mastering, and score: Peter Moore, Palace of Purpose Studios in Malden, MA Opening Theme Song: Written by Peter Moore and Alli Thresher. Arranged by Peter Moore. Performed by Mister G (vocals) and Peter Moore (instruments). Cast Miri - Arianna Fox Micah - Maxwell Glick Evie - Samantha Philyaw Jacob - Caro Cabal Coniglio Blue - Maya Aoki Tuttle Elijah - Nate DuFort Auntie PJ - Madelaine Ripley Joha - Ryan Abedi

Our heroes are back in this world and ready to head home – but there’s someone they don’t recognize with Auntie PJ, and someone else being kind of mysterious! The kids must embark on an epic game of hide and seek to save the library.   Credits Beyond the Bookcase is a production of PJ Library. Production: Executive Producer, Alli Thresher; Associate Producer, Elizabeth Korelitz Story Editor: Petey Gibson Writers: Jan Schwaid, Petey Gibson Audio editing, mixing, mastering, and score: Peter Moore, Palace of Purpose Studios in Malden, MA Opening Theme Song: Written by Peter Moore and Alli Thresher. Arranged by Peter Moore. Performed by Mister G (vocals) and Peter Moore (instruments).   Cast Miri - Arianna Fox Micah - Maxwell Glick Evie - Samantha Philyaw Jacob - Caro Cabal Coniglio Blue - Maya Aoki Tuttle Elijah - Nate DuFort Auntie PJ - Madelaine Ripley Joha - Ryan Abedi  

Want to hear the full episode? Just search "Radio Chitaika" wherever you listen to podcasts. Series premieres late October. 

Premiering this fall -- a new podcast from PJ Library Presents! Radio Chitaika features folk tales, beloved books, and Jewish stories, read aloud in Russian or Ukrainian by talented readers such as Gera Sandler, Marsha Pruss, Angelina Statyeva and more! Subscribe on your favorite podcast platform. 

Welcome to our last summer bonus episode. Today we're (attempting) to catch up with Auntie PJ to ask the hard-hitting questions: Is food allowed in the library? What does Auntie PJ do when she's not at Sofer Shalom? What was she like as a kid? Listen in as we attempt to learn more about our favorite international woman of mystery turned librarian.  Season 3 of PJ Library Presents: Beyond the Bookcase, premieres in October 2023.   Episode Credits: Beyond the Bookcase is a production of PJ Library. Production: Executive Producer, Alli Thresher; Associate Producer, Elizabeth Korelitz Cast: Auntie PJ: Madelaine Ripley Interviewer: Alli Thresher

What has everyone's favorite bookworm been up to since we last heard from him? Find out in today's bonus episode! Have a question for Mr. Saifair, his brother Dafi, or any of our other characters? Leave us a voicemail at pjlibrary.org/podcast.   Episode Credits: Beyond the Bookcase is a production of PJ Library. Production: Executive Producer, Alli Thresher; Associate Producer, Elizabeth Korelitz Cast: Mr. Saifair - Tau Zaman Interviewer - Alli Thresher

Listen in as we chat with our buddy, the Mayor of Mashal, Golem! What has he been up to lately? Does he have any hobbies? How old is he? All of this and more in today's bonus episode.  Who will we catch up with next? Stay tuned...    Episode Credits: Beyond the Bookcase is a production of PJ Library. Production: Executive Producer, Alli Thresher; Associate Producer, Elizabeth Korelitz Cast: Golem - Pat Bordenave Interviewer - Alli Thresher

Today we're answering questions from you: our listeners! Tune in this summer for bonus content including character interviews, sneak previews, and more. Beyond the Bookcase returns with a new season in the fall.  Want to send us a voicemail? Visit https://tinyurl.com/pjpodcasts to leave one. 

Shavuot is coming up! Learn more about this important -- and super kid-friendly holiday -- with a playlist of episodes about Shavuot from across our network. Visit pjlibrary.org/shavuot for book lists, recipes, and more to help you celebrate your first Shavuot. 

Miri, Micah, and all of their friends will be back for Season 3 this fall. In the meantime, enjoy a playlist full of Passover-themed episodes from across our network of shows. Set the seder table with Kiddo and Mimi, cook up a feast with Humpty Dumpty, search for the afikomen with a pirate, and more!  Learn more at pjlibrary.org/passover -- and don't forget, you can download a free Haggadah too!

It's the Season 2 finale! Wild creatures are running all over the place. What WAS on Serach's farm? And what's the deal with that goat? All will be revealed in the stunning conclusion.   Credits Beyond the Bookcase is a production of PJ Library. Production: Executive Producer, Alli Thresher; Associate Producer, Elizabeth Korelitz Story Editor: Petey Gibson Writers: Jan Schwaid, Petey Gibson Audio editing, mixing, mastering, and score: Peter Moore, Palace of Purpose Studios in Malden, MA Opening Theme Song: Written by Peter Moore and Alli Thresher. Arranged by Peter Moore. Performed by Mister G (vocals) and Peter Moore (instruments).   Cast Miri - Arianna Fox Micah - Maxwell Glick Evie - Samantha Philyaw Jacob - Caro Cabal Coniglio Blue - Maya Aoki Tuttle Elijah - Nate DuFort Auntie PJ - Madelaine Ripley Farmer Serach - Daniella Rabbani Golem - Pat Bordenave Snow White - Laura Schreiber Mazzik 1 - Zad Gravebone Mazzik 2 - Alli Thresher Chicken Little - Blair Which Pied Piper - Mike Ciporkin Reginald the Rooster - Malcolm Villaverde Zev the Wolf - Walter Alice Sickert Mr. Saifair - Tau Zaman Humpty Dumpty - John Henry Kurtz

It's the second to last episode of Season 2! Myrtle the turtle is ready to FLY! But is it the right thing to do, both morally and … aerodynamically? Blue uses their new superpower to teach Myrtle about respecting differences.  To learn more about the Jewish value of kavod, respect, visit pjlibrary.org/values.   Credits Beyond the Bookcase is a production of PJ Library. Production: Executive Producer, Alli Thresher; Associate Producer, Elizabeth Korelitz Story Editor: Petey Gibson Writers: Jan Schwaid, Petey Gibson Audio editing, mixing, mastering, and score: Peter Moore, Palace of Purpose Studios in Malden, MA Opening Theme Song: Written by Peter Moore and Alli Thresher. Arranged by Peter Moore. Performed by Mister G (vocals) and Peter Moore (instruments).   Cast Miri - Arianna Fox Micah - Maxwell Glick Jacob - Caro Cabal Coniglio Evie - Samantha Philyaw Blue - Maya Aoki Tuttle Hare - Daniel Amerman Myrtle the Turtle - Daniella Rabbani Mr. Saifair - Tau Zaman Marion (Woman in Shoe) - Tianna Tagami Jack - Rich Wentworth Golem -Pat Bordenave Farmer Serach - Daniella Rabbani  

The Mashal musicians are in disarray and making a lot of noise, and not the cool alternative music kind of noise. It's too loud, it's cacophonous, it's downright unpleasant! Can the kids help?   Credits Beyond the Bookcase is a production of PJ Library. Production: Executive Producer, Alli Thresher; Associate Producer, Elizabeth Korelitz Story Editor: Petey Gibson Writers: Jan Schwaid, Petey Gibson Audio editing, mixing, mastering, and score: Peter Moore, Palace of Purpose Studios in Malden, MA Opening Theme Song: Written by Peter Moore and Alli Thresher. Arranged by Peter Moore. Performed by Mister G (vocals) and Peter Moore (instruments).   Cast Miri - Arianna Fox Micah - Maxwell Glick Jacob - Caro Cabal Coniglio Evie - Samantha Philyaw Blue - Maya Aoki Tuttle Auntie PJ - Madelaine Ripley Chicken Little - Blair Which Pied Piper - Mike Ciporkin Zev the Wolf - Walter Alice Sickert Chester the Cat - Alli Thresher Dolores the Donkey - Alli Thresher Decklin the Dog - Zad Gravebone Reginald the Rooster - Malcolm Villaverde Jack - Rich Wentworth Farmer Serach - Daniella Rabbani

The kids find someone they’ve been searching for. But there’s no time to sit and swap travel tales – something is still not right in Mashal. Does the mysterious Serach know what's up?   Credits Beyond the Bookcase is a production of PJ Library. Production: Executive Producer, Alli Thresher; Associate Producer, Elizabeth Korelitz Story Editor: Petey Gibson Writers: Jan Schwaid, Petey Gibson Audio editing, mixing, mastering, and score: Peter Moore, Palace of Purpose Studios in Malden, MA Opening Theme Song: Written by Peter Moore and Alli Thresher. Arranged by Peter Moore. Performed by Mister G (vocals) and Peter Moore (instruments).   Cast Miri - Arianna Fox Dafi - Tau Zaman Micah - Maxwell Glick Blue - Maya Aoki Tuttle Jacob - Caro Cabal Coniglio Evie - Samantha Philyaw Golem - Pat Bordenave Jack - Rich Wentworth Farmer Serach - Daniella Rabbani Mr. Saifair - Tau Zaman Marion Woman in Shoe - Tianna Tagami Peter Pumpkin Eater - Mike Ciporkin Humpty Dumpty - John Henry Kurtz

Chelm seems to be returning to not-normal, which is great. The kids just need to help one wanderer home from a long trip to nowhere. And, there's one thing missing: Dafi Saifair's brilliant Mumu!   Credits Beyond the Bookcase is a production of PJ Library. Production: Executive Producer, Alli Thresher; Associate Producer, Elizabeth Korelitz Story Editor: Petey Gibson Writers: Jan Schwaid, Petey Gibson Audio editing, mixing, mastering, and score: Peter Moore, Palace of Purpose Studios in Malden, MA Opening Theme Song: Written by Peter Moore and Alli Thresher. Arranged by Peter Moore. Performed by Mister G (vocals) and Peter Moore (instruments). Cast Miri - Arianna Fox Dafi - Tau Zaman Micah - Maxwell Glick Blue - Maya Aoki Tuttle Jacob - Caro Cabal Coniglio Evie - Samantha Philyaw Golem - Pat Bordenave Frank - Zad Gravebone Sacha - Kristopher Jenson