PJ Library Presents: Afternoons With Mimi

Kiddo is so bored and there's nothing to do. But Mimi knows that a little creativity can cure any dull day, even when all you have is a paper towel roll. Did you know that creativity and cooperation are both Jewish values? So is being a good friend. To learn more and find picture book recommendations, visit PJLibrary.org/values for more.   Episode Credits: Afternoons With Mimi is a production of PJ Library. Production: Executive Producer, Alli Thresher Writer: Alli Thresher Audio editing, mixing, mastering, and score: Peter Moore, Palace of Purpose Studios in Malden, MA Opening Theme Song: Lyrics by Alli Thresher, composed and arranged by Hovav Paller Performed by Deirdre Wade Cast: Kiddo: Percy Blythe Mimi: Deirdre Wade

Hanukkah is here and it's time for the whole family to get together. Kiddo isn't sure how to light the candles or where each one goes in the menorah. Miraculous Mimi to the rescue!   Episode Credits: Afternoons With Mimi is a production of PJ Library. Production: Executive Producer, Alli Thresher Writer: Alli Thresher Audio editing, mixing, mastering, and score: Peter Moore, Palace of Purpose Studios in Malden, MA Opening Theme Song: Lyrics by Alli Thresher, composed and arranged by Hovav Paller Performed by Deirdre Wade Cast: Kiddo: Percy Blythe Mimi: Deirdre Wade

Oh no! Baby Z has damaged big brother Kiddo's beloved stuffie, Owly. Fortunately Mimi is ready with a story to help frustrated Kiddo find forgiveness. Listeners will love Mimi’s retelling of the salty story of Jonah, a Yom Kippur tradition.   Episode Credits: Afternoons With Mimi is a production of PJ Library. Production: Executive Producer, Alli Thresher Writer: Alli Thresher Audio editing, mixing, mastering, and score: Peter Moore, Palace of Purpose Studios in Malden, MA Opening Theme Song: Lyrics by Alli Thresher, composed and arranged by Hovav Paller Performed by Deirdre Wade Cast: Kiddo: Percy Blythe Mimi: Deirdre Wade

Earlier today, some friends wouldn’t stop arguing on a bumpy bus ride, and Kiddo is feeling so frustrated about it that his tummy hurts. At Mimi's, Kiddo calms down enough to talk about it, and of course Mimi has the perfect story to share, Aaron the Peacemaker. Mimi always finds a way to give Kiddo the tools to get through rough times.   Episode Credits:   Afternoons With Mimi is a production of PJ Library.   Production: Executive Producer, Alli Thresher, Associate Producer, Elizabeth Korelitz Writer and Story Editor: Alli Thresher Audio editing, mixing, mastering, and score: Peter Moore, Palace of Purpose Studios in Malden, MA Opening Theme Song: Lyrics by Alli Thresher, composed and arranged by Hovav Paller Performed by Deirdre Wade   Cast: Kiddo: Percy Blythe Mimi: Deirdre Wade

Happy World Read Aloud Day from all of us here at PJ Library and Afternoons With Mimi. We hope you'll enjoy this lovely, nice and long playlist of Mimi reading your favorite PJ Library storybooks.   The Candlewick Written by Jennifer Rosner Illustrated by Kristina Swarner Published by PJ Publishing   The Chocolate King Written by Michael Leventhal Illustrated by Laura Catalaan Published by Green Bean Books   Benjy's Blanket Written by Miguel Gouveia Illustrated by Raquel Catalina Published by Green Bean Books   Yitzi, the Trusty Tractor Written by Naomi Shulman Illustrated by Shelly Couvillion Published by PJ Publishing   Until the Blueberries Grow Written by Jennifer Wolf Kam Illustrated by Sally Walker Published by PJ Publishing   Saturdays Are Special Written by Chris Barash Illustrated by Abigail Marble Published by PJ Publishing   The Mouse Who Danced the Hora Written by Pamela Mayer Illustrated by Christine Davenier Published by PJ Publishing   Episode Credits: Afternoons With Mimi is a production of PJ Library. Production: Executive Producer, Alli Thresher. Associate Producer, Elizabeth Korelitz Writer: Alli Thresher Audio editing, mixing, mastering, and score: Peter Moore, Palace of Purpose Studios in Malden, MA Opening Theme Song: Lyrics by Alli Thresher, composed and arranged by Hovav Paller Performed by Deirdre Wade Cast: Narrator: Alli Thresher Mimi: Deirdre Wade

On the way to get ice cream, Mimi gives money to someone in need. Kiddo wonders why and worries that now they won’t have enough to buy ice cream. Mimi explains the Jewish value of Tikkun Olam, repairing the world, and the small ways we can find and spread kindness and light.   Episode Credits: Afternoons With Mimi is a production of PJ Library. Production: Executive Producer, Alli Thresher; Associate Producer, Elizabeth Korelitz Writer: Alli Thresher Audio editing, mixing, mastering, and score: Peter Moore, Palace of Purpose Studios in Malden, MA Opening Theme Song: Lyrics by Alli Thresher, composed and arranged by Hovav Paller Performed by Deirdre Wade Cast: Kiddo: Percy Blythe Mimi: Deirdre Wade    

Kiddo wants to do so many things on his to-do list! But Mimi knows best and reminds Kiddo that it's Shabbat. Time to rest and snuggle up and read their latest PJ Library delivery: Saturdays are Special, written by Chris Barash, illustrated by Abigail Marble, and published by PJ Publishing.     Episode Credits: Afternoons With Mimi is a production of PJ Library. Production: Executive Producer, Alli Thresher Writer: Alli Thresher Audio editing, mixing, mastering, and score: Peter Moore, Palace of Purpose Studios in Malden, MA Opening Theme Song: Lyrics by Alli Thresher, composed and arranged by Hovav Paller Performed by Deirdre Wade Cast: Kiddo: Percy Blythe Mimi: Deirdre Wade    

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 on our PJ Library Presents network. We've got not one, not two, but three special Shabbat playlists!

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!

What's that beautiful song Mimi is humming as Baby Z naps? Kiddo and Mimi share a snuggle as Mimi tells him all about the famous-and Jewish-Gerswhin brothers. Kiddo and Mimi welcome Baby Z as he wakes up with a beautiful rendition of "Someone to Watch Over Me."    Episode Credits: Afternoons With Mimi is a production of PJ Library. Production: Executive Producer, Alli Thresher Writer: Alli Thresher Audio editing, mixing, mastering, and score: Peter Moore, Palace of Purpose Studios in Malden, MA Opening Theme Song: Lyrics by Alli Thresher, composed and arranged by Hovav Paller Performed by Deirdre Wade Cast: Kiddo: Percy Blythe Mimi: Deirdre Wade

Kiddo just can't put down his game. He's almost at the next level! Mimi reminds Kiddo that Shabbat is near, and it's time to power down and rest. To make things even easier, Mimi just received the perfect story to share. Yitzi, The Trusty Tractor is written by Naomi Shulman, illustrated by Shelley Couvillion, and published by PJ Publishing.   Episode Credits: Afternoons With Mimi is a production of PJ Library. Production: Executive Producer, Alli Thresher Writer: Alli Thresher Audio editing, mixing, mastering, and score: Peter Moore, Palace of Purpose Studios in Malden, MA Opening Theme Song: Lyrics by Alli Thresher, composed and arranged by Hovav Paller Performed by Deirdre Wade Cast: Kiddo: Percy Blythe Mimi: Deirdre Wade

While Mimi teaches Kiddo how to make a recipe for a party, she points out that this is just one of many traditions being passed down in their family. Kiddo learns that everything from Zee’s tzedakah box to the family’s stories, songs, and even table settings, are part of something much bigger. Whenever your children learn a family tradition, story, or recipe, that's l'dor v'dor, which is the Hebrew for "from generation to generation." To learn more, visit pjlibrary.org/values   Episode Credits: Afternoons With Mimi is a production of PJ Library. Production: Executive Producer, Alli Thresher Writer: Alli Thresher Audio editing, mixing, mastering, and score: Peter Moore, Palace of Purpose Studios in Malden, MA Opening Theme Song: Lyrics by Alli Thresher, composed and arranged by Hovav Paller Performed by Deirdre Wade Cast: Kiddo: Percy Blythe Mimi: Deirdre Wade

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. 

Kiddo wonders why they’ve invited his friend Max over for a playdate at Mimi’s instead of at his own house.  Mimi explains it’s in consideration of Max’s needs, since her house is more accessible. Kiddo learns that the mitzvah of hachnasat orchim, Hebrew for “welcoming guests,” includes making visitors feel comfortable and honored. Families will love Mimi’s retelling of The Candlewick, written by Jennifer Rosner, illustrated by Kristina Swarner, and published by PJ Publishing. To learn more about the Jewish value of welcoming guests, visit pjlibrary.org/values. For full show notes, check out our website, pjlibrary.org/podcast.   Episode Credits: Afternoons With Mimi is a production of PJ Library. Production: Executive Producer, Alli Thresher Writer: Alli Thresher Audio editing, mixing, mastering, and score: Peter Moore, Palace of Purpose Studios in Malden, MA Opening Theme Song: Lyrics by Alli Thresher, composed and arranged by Hovav Paller Performed by Deirdre Wade Cast: Kiddo: Percy Blythe Mimi: Deirdre Wade

Kiddo and Mimi are at the JCC pool having an amazing morning -- and things get even better when Kiddo finds a treasure. "Finders keepers, losers weepers," he shouts gleefully. On their way out, Mimi gives Kiddo a small lesson in hashavat aveidah - the mitzvah of returning lost objects and reminds him of a time that someone reunited him with his beloved stuffie. Will Kiddo change his tune and do the right thing? Will Mimi sign up for next week's aqua-robics? Find out in this week's episode.  To learn more about Jewish values, and to discover some great books about hashavat aveidah visit pjlibrary.org/values.   Episode Credits: Afternoons With Mimi is a production of PJ Library. Production: Executive Producer, Alli Thresher; Associate Producer, Elizabeth Korelitz Writer: Emma Carlson Berne Story Editor: Alli Thresher Audio editing, mixing, mastering, and score: Peter Moore, Palace of Purpose Studios in Malden, MA Opening Theme Song: Lyrics by Alli Thresher, composed and arranged by Hovav Paller Performed by Deirdre Wade Cast: Kiddo: Percy Blythe Mimi: Deirdre Wade

Surprise! The PJ Library Presents team is releasing a few Afternoons With Mimi episodes early. Get a sneak peek of season three with today's episode where Kiddo deals with the struggles of being a big brother.  Baby Zee is throwing crackers everywhere and Kiddo is not amused! Luckily Mimi is there with a story, a nice plate of rugelach, and a special photo album, to calm things down.  If you love the story that Mimi tells Kiddo, be sure to check out other versions of this classic folktale on our website: pjlibrary.org.  Episode Credits: Afternoons With Mimi is a production of PJ Library. Production: Executive Producer, Alli Thresher; Associate Producer Elizabeth Korelitz Writer: Emma Carlson Berne Story Editor: Alli Thresher Audio editing, mixing, mastering, and score: Peter Moore, Palace of Purpose Studios in Malden, MA Opening Theme Song: Lyrics by Alli Thresher, composed and arranged by Hovav Paller Performed by Deirdre Wade Cast: Kiddo: Percy Blythe Mimi: Deirdre Wade

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!

In a special bonus episode, Kiddo calls his uncle in Tel Aviv. Come along and enjoy the soundscape of a bustling Israeli neighborhood. Episode Credits: Afternoons With Mimi is a production of PJ Library. Production: Executive Producer, Alli Thresher Writer: Alli Thresher Audio editing, mixing, mastering, and score: Peter Moore, Palace of Purpose Studios in Malden, MA Opening Theme Song: Lyrics by Alli Thresher, composed and arranged by Hovav Paller Performed by Deirdre Wade Cast: Kiddo: Percy Blythe Mimi: Deirdre Wade Uncle Joel: Hovav Paller Mr. Rami: Rich Wentworth

It's time for the seder and Kiddo is helping Mimi get ready. What goes on a seder plate? Why? Where does everyone sit? Do babies have to ask the Four Questions? Learn more at pjlibrary.org/Passover   Episode Credits: Afternoons With Mimi is a production of PJ Library. Production: Executive Producer, Alli Thresher Writer: Alli Thresher Audio editing, mixing, mastering, and score: Peter Moore, Palace of Purpose Studios in Malden, MA Opening Theme Song: Lyrics by Alli Thresher, composed and arranged by Hovav Paller Performed by Deirdre Wade Cast: Kiddo: Percy Blythe Mimi: Deirdre Wade

Kiddo is not feeling great so Mimi pays him a visit. Her wonderful story teaches about the mitzvah of visiting the sick, and is sure to make even healthy listeners feel better.  The story featured in today's episode is Perhaps, Just Maybe, written by Tuvia Dikman, illustrated by Menahem Halberstadt, and published by Green Bean Books. Used with permission from Green Bean Books.   Episode Credits: Afternoons With Mimi is a production of PJ Library. Production: Executive Producer, Alli Thresher Writer: Alli Thresher Audio editing, mixing, mastering, and score: Peter Moore, Palace of Purpose Studios in Malden, MA Opening Theme Song: Lyrics by Alli Thresher, composed and arranged by Hovav Paller Performed by Deirdre Wade Cast: Kiddo: Percy Blythe Mimi: Deirdre Wade