PJ Library Presents: Beyond The Bookcase

A Very Mashal Bat Mitzvah

Tue, 17 Mar 2026 03:00:00 -0400

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

To Bee or Not to Bee: A Shavuot Story

Tue, 03 Mar 2026 02:54:00 -0500

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

Marion’s Mashal Adventures

Tue, 17 Feb 2026 03:00:00 -0500

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

Mr. Saifair’s New Golem

Tue, 03 Feb 2026 03:00:00 -0500

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

Hanukkah Playlist (Re-air)

Tue, 09 Dec 2025 03:28:00 -0500

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).

Mizrahi Heritage Month Playlist

Tue, 04 Nov 2025 14:10:51 -0500

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

Bonus Episode: Golem Meets a Monster Hunter

Tue, 14 Oct 2025 05:49:00 -0400

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

The Three Little Pigs and the Very Tall Community Sukkah

Tue, 30 Sep 2025 06:01:00 -0400

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

The Rosh Hashanah Playlist

Tue, 09 Sep 2025 06:01:00 -0400

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

Turn Around Teshuva

Tue, 02 Sep 2025 03:54:00 -0400

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 Prepare a Rosh Hashanah Seder

Tue, 19 Aug 2025 03:45:00 -0400

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

Emergency Alert! The Season 5 Premiere

Tue, 05 Aug 2025 03:47:00 -0400

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

Golem Answers a Listener Question And Makes a Playlist

Tue, 08 Jul 2025 03:50:00 -0400

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

National Storytelling Month Playlist

Thu, 01 May 2025 02:44:00 -0400

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!

Passover Playlist 2025

Tue, 25 Mar 2025 05:00:00 -0400

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

Season 4 Finale: A Royal Wedding

Tue, 04 Feb 2025 06:11:00 -0500

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

Rapunzel's New 'Do

Tue, 21 Jan 2025 16:38:00 -0500

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

Golem's Challah

Tue, 07 Jan 2025 01:38:00 -0500

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's Miracle Bread

Tue, 03 Dec 2024 01:01:00 -0500

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

Mermaid Murmurs

Tue, 05 Nov 2024 15:31:40 -0500

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

It's Chag Habanot!

Tue, 22 Oct 2024 01:01:00 -0400

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

Spice Up Your Life

Tue, 08 Oct 2024 01:01:00 -0400

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

A Fairytale Feud

Tue, 10 Sep 2024 01:01:00 -0400

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

2024 Purim Playlist

Tue, 12 Mar 2024 02:11:00 -0400

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.

Season 3 Finale

Tue, 05 Mar 2024 01:01:00 -0500

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

Story For Another Time: A Not So Big Bad Wolf's First Shabbat

Tue, 20 Feb 2024 01:01:00 -0500

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

Joha in the Woods

Tue, 06 Feb 2024 01:01:00 -0500

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

Story for Another Time: Passover in Mashal

Tue, 23 Jan 2024 01:01:00 -0500

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

Chasing Joha Through Passover

Tue, 09 Jan 2024 01:01:00 -0500

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

Shabbat Playlist

Tue, 26 Dec 2023 01:01:00 -0500

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.

Story For Another Time: The Butcher, the Baker, and the Candlestick Maker

Tue, 19 Dec 2023 01:00:00 -0500

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

Thu, 07 Dec 2023 16:45:59 -0500

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

Joha Does a Mitzvah?!

Tue, 28 Nov 2023 01:01:00 -0500

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

Playlist: Sharing Family Traditions

Tue, 21 Nov 2023 01:00:00 -0500

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!

A Story For Another Time: Cinderella’s New Kicks

Tue, 14 Nov 2023 11:46:08 -0500

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

Joha, a Donkey, and a Missing Skateboard

Tue, 31 Oct 2023 01:00:00 -0400

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

Meet Joha: The Season 3 Premiere

Tue, 17 Oct 2023 01:14:00 -0400

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

Preview: Radio Chitaika Episode 1

Tue, 26 Sep 2023 13:05:10 -0400

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

Coming Soon: Radio Chitaika

Mon, 11 Sep 2023 11:55:12 -0400

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.

Bonus Episode: Auntie PJ (sort of) Answers Your Questions

Tue, 01 Aug 2023 02:19:00 -0400

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

Bonus Episode: Catching Up With Mr. Saifair

Tue, 18 Jul 2023 01:51:00 -0400

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

Bonus Episode: A Chat With Golem

Tue, 04 Jul 2023 03:28:00 -0400

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

Bonus Episode: Listener Questions

Tue, 20 Jun 2023 15:07:21 -0400

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.

Bonus: The 2023 Shavuot Playlist

Tue, 09 May 2023 01:02:00 -0400

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.

Bonus: 2023 Passover Playlist

Tue, 04 Apr 2023 11:46:03 -0400

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!

Mending Mashal: The Season Finale

Tue, 21 Feb 2023 07:07:16 -0500

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

Wishful Wings: The Greatest and Most Amazing

Tue, 07 Feb 2023 06:41:00 -0500

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

Drop the Beat: No, Seriously, Please Drop It

Tue, 24 Jan 2023 04:10:00 -0500

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

Reunited: Peter, Peter Needs a Pie?

Tue, 10 Jan 2023 01:29:00 -0500

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’s Order: A Slice of Heaven and Some Powdered Eggs

Tue, 27 Dec 2022 02:51:00 -0500

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

Bonus: Hanukkah Playlist

Thu, 15 Dec 2022 08:38:00 -0500

Episode Credits

Beyond the Bookcase is a production of PJ Library.

Production: Executive Producer, Alli Thresher; Associate Producer, Elizabeth Korelitz

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).

Major Renovation: Bring in the Borscht Barrels!

Tue, 13 Dec 2022 03:59:00 -0500

The shul doors are, once again, broken. And the kids are ready to fix more of Chelm. And by “fix,” we mean totally mess everything up. Put on your unicycle helmet and enjoy.

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

Evie - Samantha Philyaw
Jacob - Caro Cabal Coniglio
Dafi - Tau Zaman
Miri - Arianna Fox
Micah - Maxwell Glick
Blue - Maya Aoki Tuttle
Golem - Pat Bordenave
Man at Wit's End - Zad Gravebone
Ms. Meyer - Gwen D'Angelo
Mrs. Lam - Alli Thresher
Narrator - Alli Thresher

Welcome to Chelm: Wait, What is This Place?

Tue, 29 Nov 2022 02:37:00 -0500

The kids discover Chelm, a very grey part of Mashal that’s both confusing and confused, if that makes any sense, which it wouldn’t in Chelm. And … Mr. Saifair has a brother?!?

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

Evie - Samantha Philyaw
Jacob - Caro Cabal Coniglio
Dafi - Tau Zaman
Miri - Arianna Fox
Micah - Maxwell Glick
Blue - Maya Aoki Tuttle
Golem - Pat Bordenave
Yankel -Zad Gravebone

Behold: Beauty In the Eye of the Ugly Duckling

Tue, 15 Nov 2022 07:40:00 -0500

A very handsome swan is in distress - and who is nearby? Why it's Golem! Can the kids help their friend return to his lovely clay self?

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

Blue - Maya Aoki Tuttle
Miri - Arianna Fox
Micah - Maxwell Glick
Jacob - Caro Cabal Coniglio
Evie - Samantha Philyaw
Golem - Pat Bordenave
Swan - LD Castro

Thank Goodness: Princesses and Perspective

Tue, 01 Nov 2022 06:04:00 -0400

Cinderella and Rapunzel welcome the kids to stay for the night in their tiny cabin. Cinderella clears the air about her bonus mom, Rapunzel gets a new ’do, and everyone learns about the Jewish value of Hakarat Hatov – recognizing the good.

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
Cinderella - Gwen D'Angelo
Rapunzel - Daniella Rabbani

Fancy This: Three Lost Kittens and a Season Premiere

Tue, 18 Oct 2022 00:38:00 -0400

The kids and Mr. Saifair come up with a plan to save Mashal and rescue Golem from his destructive path. On that path, our friends find three particularly posh kittens whose unprotected paws have left them stranded in the woods. Learn all about the Jewish value of returning lost objects in the season 2 premiere episode of Beyond the Bookcase.

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
Kitten 1 - Malcolm Villaverde
Kitten 2 - Molly Villaverde
Kitten 3 - Blair Which
Peter Rabbit - Zad Gravebone
Bo Peep - Laura Schreiber
Chester the Cat - Alli Thresher
Mr. Saifair - Tau Zaman
Golem - Pat Bordenave
Rabbit - Alli Thresher

Season 1 Finale!

Mon, 30 May 2022 23:55:00 -0400

In this season finale of Beyond the Bookcase, things go beyond berserk! The kids arrive at the library but it’s eerily quiet and Auntie PJ is NOWHERE to be found. They discover they can now enter the land of Mashal at will. But when they arrive, it’s no longer just a quest to find Auntie PJ, but a mission to save the Golem and ALL their fairytale friends too. Thanks for coming along on this season’s adventure! Stay tuned for new episodes this fall.

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). 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
Mr. Saifair – Tau Zaman
Zev the Wolf - Walter Alice Sickert
Chicken Little - Blair Which
Humpty Dumpty - John Henry Kurtz
Marion, the Not-So-Old Woman Living in a Shoe - Tianna Tagami
Bo Peep - Laura Schreiber
Hare - Daniel Amerman

It’s No Rules Day!

Sun, 08 May 2022 01:24:00 -0400

It’s Shavuot and the kids have arrived in the mystical land of Mashal to find things in chaos! It seems Zev and several of his fairytale friends have introduced the idea of a day with NO RULES. The kids already have their hands full helping to get things back in order, and then Mr. Saifair takes drastic measures, aiming to get Mashal under control ... with no children allowed ever again!

Learn more about the holiday of Shavuot at pjlibrary.org/shavuot.

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
Mr. Saifair – Tau Zaman
Zev the Wolf - Walter Alice Sickert
Tortoise - David Nickerson
Jack - Richard Wentworth
Hansel -
Gretel - Lyra Ericson

Humpty Dumpty and the Passover Feast

Mon, 28 Mar 2022 10:20:11 -0400

A tomato and dairy shortage is threatening to cancel the annual matzah pizza cookoff, and Auntie PJ is freaking out! The kids are whisked away to the land of Mashal where Humpty Dumpty is about to crack under the pressure of hosting his first seder. The kids get help from all their fairytale friends (and even Mr. Saifair) to pick up the Passover pieces and help Humpty keep it together.

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).

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

The Big Bad Wolf and the Purimspiel

Mon, 07 Mar 2022 01:37:00 -0500

It’s time for the purimspiel, the annual performance telling the story of Purim. The kids are trying to decide which characters everyone will play but they can’t get Jacob to settle on a role. Once again transported to the land of Mashal, they meet Bubbe and a not-so-bad wolf named Zev. He’s having his own trouble finding his role in Mashal’s Purim carnival. They’ll all have to work together to help both Zev and Jacob pick the perfect part.

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
Zev the Wolf - Walter Alice Sickert
Little Red - Anne Alexander Sieder

Chicken Little’s Havdalah Walk

Mon, 07 Feb 2022 01:29:00 -0500

The kids come to the library for a Pajama Havdalah event, but their upcoming move has Blue feeling more stressed than blessed. Whisked away to the fantastic land of Mashal, the kids run into Chicken Little, who can relate to Blue’s fear of change. She’s upset about Shabbat coming to an end. A Havdalah walk through Mashal is just what this group needs in order to learn that endings open the door for sweet new beginnings.

Micah – Maxwell Glick
Miri - Arianna Fox
Evie - Sylvia Beth Schmitz
Blue - Maya Aoki Tuttle
Auntie PJ – Madelaine Ripley
Golem - Pat Bordenave
Mr. Saifair – Tau Zaman
Chicken Little - Blair Which
Hare - Daniel Amerman
Jack - Richard Wentworth
Snow White - Laura Schreiber

Goostav and the Beanstalk

Tue, 04 Jan 2022 00:17:00 -0500

Auntie PJ is teaching the kids about hashavat aveidah, the Jewish commandment about returning lost objects to their rightful owners. Transported to the mystical land of Mashal, they find their fairy tale friend Jack. He’s recovering from a frisbee golf injury, so he needs the kids’ help doing some hashavat aveidah of his own. He has to return a certain golden goose, and its rightful owner is a pretty BIG deal in the land of Mashal. Featuring special guest voice Matt Gutman.

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
Giant - Mat Gutman
Jack - Richard Wentworth

Goldilocks and the Tzedakah Project

Mon, 13 Dec 2021 00:27:00 -0500

A new friend named Jacob joins the kids to help Auntie PJ gather donations for people in need. But since this is no ordinary synagogue library, this tzedakah mission takes a detour to the mysterious land of Mashal. That’s where Goldilocks and Baby Bear happen to be working on some good deeds of their own! The kids end up on a tzedakah adventure, offering help to other fairy tale characters along the way.

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

Jack Be Nimble: A Hanukkah Story

Sun, 14 Nov 2021 23:24:00 -0500

Miri, Micah, and their two friends thought they were headed to the synagogue library to help Auntie PJ prepare for Hanukkah. Instead, they’re swept into a surprise holiday journey, mystically transported to the land of Mashal. They arrive to discover the annual Festival of Lights is in jeopardy. Jack, the high-jumping star of the show, is too afraid to do his big Hanukkiah stunt. Jack may be nimble, but he’ll need serious help from the kids if he’s also going to be brave.

Micah – Maxwell Glick
Miri - Arianna Fox
Evie - Sylvia Beth Schmitz
Blue - Maya Aoki Tuttle
Auntie PJ – Madelaine Ripley
Golem - Pat Bordenave
Mr. Saifair – Tau Zaman
Jack - Richard Wentworth

The Tortoise and the Hare: A Shabbat Story

Mon, 18 Oct 2021 01:42:00 -0400

Welcome to Beyond the Bookcase - a new series from PJ Library! Siblings Miri and Micah are visiting the eccentric synagogue librarian, Auntie PJ, when they are suddenly whisked away to a magical world full of fairytale characters.

What does the old story of the tortoise and the hare have to do with Shabbat? Are Golems made to announce sporting matches? Will anyone help Chicken Little with her socks? Find out during the premiere episode of Beyond the Bookcase.

New episodes drop every month--subscribe wherever you listen to podcasts to follow the story.

Micah – Maxwell Glick
Miri – Arianna Fox
Auntie PJ – Madelaine Ripley
Golem - Pat Bordenave
Mr. Saifair – Tau Zaman
Humpty Dumpty – John Henry Kurtz
Hare – Daniel Amerman
Snow White – Laura Schreiber
Chicken Little – Blair Which
Peter Pumpkin Eater - Mike Ciporkin
Jack - Richard Wentworth

Introducing Beyond the Bookcase

Wed, 29 Sep 2021 10:26:23 -0400

Mysterious things are happening in Auntie PJ's library! Join siblings Miri and Micah as they journey to the land of Mashal, a magical place where stories come to life (with a Jewish twist).

Subscribe to Beyond the Bookcase to listen to new episodes each month.

pjlibrary.org/podcast