As the world reacts to news of more hostages released in the Middle East, we’re reminded how deeply stories shape our understanding of hope and humanity. My guest, Rabbi Dr. Miriam Udel of Emory University, explores that very idea in her new book, Modern Jewish Worldmaking Through Yiddish Children’s Literature. She reveals how early 20th-century Jewish writers used children’s stories to build a moral world — one grounded in empathy, justice, and joy. She and I talk about what those stories can still teach us about raising thoughtful, compassionate kids in challenging times.