The Art of Storytelling
Tell Me A Story
This is a volume of 36 one page stories based on memories of the author’s childhood in the 1930s and 40s. The stories are in the voice of the child and portray the experiences of a young, Jewish, first generation American girl growing up in old New York. Bea Gold combined her art background with her story-telling skills to create a beautiful coffee table book with an illustrative painting to accompany each story. Three sets of twelve story/painting combinations were shown in Los Angeles at art exhibits in 2008 and 2009 through the member organization The Silver Lake Art Collective. The complete set is presented here.
Shopping With Mama
“Shopping with Mama” offers a nostalgic journey into the daily life of a Jewish child growing up in 1930s and 40s New York City, a time when supermarkets were absent, and food shopping was a cherished routine. Through the eyes of the protagonist, each chapter unfolds a charming tale centered around a specific store, from the appetizing store to the ice cream parlor. The black and white woodcut illustrations capture the essence of that bygone era, adding a visual dimension to the narrative.
What sets this book apart is its fusion of storytelling and culinary exploration. Alongside the anecdotes, readers are treated to authentic Jewish recipes tied to the food items found in each store. The inclusion of recipes adds a hands-on, sensory experience, inviting readers to not only savor the tales but also recreate the flavors of a bygone era in their own kitchens.
“Shopping with Mama” goes beyond a mere cookbook or memoir; it’s a literary and culinary time capsule. From the charm of the candy store to the warmth of the bakery, this book encapsulates the heartwarming journey of a child navigating the diverse landscapes of New York City’s food markets. It’s a celebration of family, culture, and the timeless joy of sharing meals that transcend generations.
