The Bamboo Cradle: a Jewish father's story

A young Jewish couple move to Taiwan for educational purposes. One day Mr. Schwartzbaum sees an abandoned baby at a train station. He takes her home and sends her to an orphanage to be taken care of. His good deed of the day was done and he would contitue on with his life. Little did he know how this little princess would change the lives of him and his family.When the Schwartzbaum's saw the awful conditions in the orphanage, they decided to adopt her and bring them home. But there were two hurdles to overcome; one their baby's Asian looks were very different than her new parents and second while her adoptive parents were traditional Jews she was not Jewish.After their arrival in the US the Schwartzbaums' set out to convert their new daughter whom they named Kim Davra after her paternal (adoptive) grandfather. They decided on an Orthodox conversion so "she'll be Jewish by everyone". There was a catch though, in order for their daughter to undergo an Orthodox conversion her parents must commit to living a religious lifestyle. This was a difficult decision and after much deliberating (and a conservative conversion) Kim Davra imersed in the mikva and became Devora, a Jewish child. 11 monthes later after several years of childlessness, the Schwartzbaum's gave birth to their first son.Their family eventually makes aliyah to Israel where Devora is subject to even more stares (her Asian looks are more common in the US) and nosy questions, and uncomfortable situations (for example in a chinese restauraunt, fellow customers thought she was the waitress). Ironically a close family friend whom they meet in Israel, introduces Devora to her husband, an American born boy.

First and foremost, this book is AMAZING. I spent time in the Far East and have grown in my connection with Torah and G-d during my travels. Bamboo Cradle is a book you want to give to anyone new coming into Judaism. It is a book that inspires and asks many good questions like ethnicity, adoption, and growth within Torah Judaism. Highly recommended if you know any geriem or Jews with Asian family. But this book is for all searchers for a greater connection with Hashem and Torah.

Great book about a couple who adopt a baby while in China in the 70's. The adoption sparks the couple's journey to Orthodox Judaism. Well written and easy to read. Honest and open.

I liked it. It was very interesting. It's an amazing story. This could be required reading at religious schools of all kinds.BrianSiegel

Good book for anyone who is interested in Judaism and religion. It is a personal story. I liked it. Thanks

I had heard about this book years ago since I know some of the family members discussed in the book. I'm not sure that this book would have universal appeal; but, for me, I found it very interesting and informative.

slow moving boring the story started out pretty good but did not keep the readers attention not what i expected

Very good. Need to use a plastic bag to avoid hand staining

thank you for making my mum happy, i lost her book and was looking to replace it, couldnt find it in any shops

really touching

meh - so so. other books on same topic are better written. a bit of a self-aggrandizing story

The book arrived in excellent (second hand) condition with an inscription. I have read the book originally and presented this book as a gift to my son who will be reading it. Thank you very much!!

A few days later than promised, but that was fine. I am happy with the purchase.