Challah Baking

Challah is one of the most universal food items in Jewish cuisine and, accordingly, is a staple of Miriam’s family’s observance of the Shabbat meal. The taste and act of baking challah reminds Miriam of her past and helps her feel at home in her new life; sharing it...

Friends with Differences

Do you have a friend like Kate or Miriam, a friend who is different than you but who has made your life richer? The world is full of many stories of hate and discrimination between people of different cultures and religions. Try to write a story for your local...

Bridging Differences

Miriam and Kate become friends despite their religious differences. Yet they do so without ignoring their differences or trying to pretend they aren’t there. In return, they both learn about one another’s lives and faith through each other. What do you learn about...

Faith and Religion

Miriam’s family is Jewish, Kate’s family is Christian. For both families, faith is an important part of their lives. How do we know this? What do you notice about the role religious faith plays in this story? How does this surprise you? What role does faith play in...

Taking Risks

Miriam’s parents decide to move and buy the Jewel Motor Inn despite having no previous experience with hotel management. Why do you think they might have made this decision? Do you think it was a wise choice? Why or why not? How does it turn out for them in the end?...