As a journalist and a father of teens, I've seen firsthand how antisemitism festers when ignored. This book doesn't just tell a...story—it gives kids the tools to recognize and stand up to hate.
Don’t Feed the Lion: Raising Courageous Kids
The Senesh School
Event Description
Join us for a powerful, family-centered conversation with Don’t Feed the Lion co-author Bianna Golodryga in dialogue with writer, performer, and audiobook narrator Abby Sher, featuring a special video message from Israeli journalist and co-author Yonit Levi.
Using this timely and thought-provoking children’s book as a springboard, the discussion explores antisemitism, bullying, and the courage to stand up for what’s right.
Designed for readers ages 8-12, Don’t Feed the Lion follows young characters navigating real-world challenges—and provides a meaningful entry point for families to talk about empathy, allyship, and moral courage together.
At a time when many children are grappling with questions of identity, belonging, and bias—both in school and online—this evening invites attendees to explore: What does it mean to speak up? How do we nurture empathy and allyship in our children? And how can stories help us process and respond to the world around us?
Parents and caregivers are encouraged to attend with their children for this shared conversation and learning experience, though attending on their own is also welcome. Whether you come as a family or on your own, you’ll leave inspired and equipped to continue these important conversations at home and in your community.
Presented in partnership with organizations and groups committed to raising courageous, compassionate kids: Congregation Beth Elohim, Flatbush Jewish Center, JCC Brooklyn, Jewish Agency for Israel, Jewish Book Council, Jewish Parent Academy, Nu Reads, Park Slope Jewish Center, Romemu Brooklyn, and UJA-Federation of New York.
Doors open at 5:45pm | Event begins at 6:00pm
About the Book
Don’t Feed the Lion (ages 8-12) follows a family whose Shabbat dinner is interrupted by a viral antisemitic post, exploring the ripple effects on a community, a school, and young people learning to recognize and respond to injustice.
Through relatable characters and unexpected twists, this middle grade novel opens the door for honest conversations between children and the adults who care for them. Written by journalists—and parents—Bianna Golodryga and Yonit Levi, the book was born out of a desire to create the resource they wished they had: a story that empowers kids to question injustice, understand allyship, and find the courage to speak out.
More than just a story, Don’t Feed the Lion is a tool for conversation—helping families explore the real-world impact of antisemitism and bullying, and what it means to stand up for what’s right.
Ticket Info
$25 tickets include admission and your very own copy of Don’t Feed the Lion to take home.
Coming with additional family members—or already have a copy of the book? Additional general admission tickets are available for $10 per person. Children join for free!
Additional copies of the Don't Feed the Lion book can be purchased as an Add-On during registration.
Meet the Co-Authors & Narrator
Bianna Golodryga - Co-Author
Bianna Golodryga is an Emmy® Award-winning journalist and co-author of Don't Feed the Lion. Based in New York, she anchors “One World with Zain Asher and Bianna Golodryga” weekdays at 11 am ET on CNN International and CNN Max and is CNN’s senior global affairs analyst. Golodryga has reported extensively on Hamas’ October 7 attack on Israel, helped lead CNN’s extensive Russia-related coverage, and regularly fills in as host of signature CNN programs, including “Amanpour” and “Fareed Zakaria GPS.” She lives in New York with her husband, Peter Orszag, and their children.
Yonit Levi - Co-Author
Yonit Levi has been the anchor of Israel’s top primetime news program on Channel 12 for the past 22 years. She has interviewed top world leaders, including Presidents Joe Biden, Barack Obama, and George W. Bush; Secretaries Hillary Clinton and Mike Pompeo; and international figures such as Bill Gates, Lin-Manuel Miranda, and Jon Stewart. In 2021, Levi launched a weekly podcast, “UNHOLY: Two Jews on the News,” with Jonathan Freedland of the Guardian, discussing world affairsf rom a Jewish perspective for listeners in more than 120 countries. She is married and shares three children with her husband, Ido Rosenblum.
Abby Sher - Audiobook Narrator
Abby Sher is a writer, performer, and voice artist based in New Jersey. She has written and performed for The Second City, Upright Citizens Brigade, HBO, Nick Jr., and NPR, and is the author of seven books, including "Solis", co-written with activist Paola Mendoza. Sher also runs corporate workshops, writing clinics, and coaches public speakers, helping audiences and participants feel empowered and heard. She brings stories to life on stage, through her writing, and with her voice. She lives in New Jersey with her family.
What People Are Saying
When hatred is dressed up as opinion, we need stories that teach kids the difference. Don’t Feed the Lion is a fierce and necessary reminder that silence is never the answer.
Hate can’t be fought alone. This book shows young people―from every background―how to be allies, how to speak up, and how to build bridges instead of walls.
A brave and beautiful story that helps kids understand antisemitism—and stand up to it with strength, pride, and compassion. This book is so needed right now.
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