Don't Feed The Lion: Bianna Golodryga and Yonit Levi

Key Takeaways

Journalists Golodryga and Levi authored "Don't Feed the Lion" to equip children against antisemitism and bias.
Antisemitism surged after October 7th, surprising many, particularly on elite U.S. college campuses.
The novel employs storytelling and role-playing to provide children with "word power" to confront hate.
The authors faced publishing challenges but are committed to educating young minds despite potential backlash.

Journalists Bianna Golodryga and Yonit Levi wrote the middle-grade novel due to a perceived lack of resources for children.
The book aims to help children recognize and counter antisemitism, bullying, and bias.
Inspiration arose from observing a rise in online hate and children encountering prejudice without adequate tools.

Yonit Levi noted Israeli children's heightened awareness of global antisemitism, especially after the events of October 7th.
Bianna Golodryga observed a spike in antisemitic sentiment even before the Gaza conflict, which has since intensified.
In late 2023, individuals in New York City considered hiding Jewish symbols and changing names on ride-sharing apps due to safety concerns.
Dr. Phil expressed alarm at antisemitic rhetoric on elite American college campuses, leading to his strong public stance and needing armed security due to death threats.

Dr. Phil expressed dismay at Hollywood's silence regarding antisemitism despite its significant Jewish presence in the industry.
The authors wrote their book because no suitable resources existed for children to understand bias and antisemitism effectively.
University presidents faced criticism during congressional testimony regarding their responses to antisemitism on campuses.
The bravery of celebrities like Gal Gadot and Sasha Baron Cohen in speaking out against antisemitism and the October 7th attacks was highlighted.

The authors chose to write 'Don't Feed the Lion' as a novel, rather than a direct instructional book, to engage young readers by channeling their own teenage experiences.
The story is set before October 7th to address the broader, longer history of antisemitism.
Fictional family experiences in the book, inspired by real people, mirror the impact of real-world events, such as a celebrity athlete's harmful comments.
One of the author's sons reacted strongly to his character's role in the book, leading to a demand for a sequel.

The book is designed to help children and adults recognize and respond to antisemitism, bullying, and bias.
Authors emphasize the importance of adults taking a firm stance against hateful remarks and behaviors to prevent children from internalizing hate.
By providing children with 'word power' and practicing responses through relatable scenarios, the book equips them to confront prejudice effectively.
This approach aims to prevent the common adult reaction of thinking of things to say only after the moment has passed, similar to how role-playing increases correct responses in a crisis.

The book's potential applications in schools, workshops, and role-playing scenarios are explored to teach empathy and spot coded hate.
The character Gabe, who has experienced persecution, serves as an ally and a source of empathy for the main characters, Theo and Annie.
Writing 'Don't Feed the Lion' was described as a cathartic and therapeutic experience for the authors, a 'ray of light' during dark times, which deepened their friendship.
The goal is to make responding to prejudice second nature for children, encouraging them to utilize their empathy without making the topic seem taboo.

The authors faced difficulties selling their book, encountering rejections from publishers who deemed the topic or age group challenging.
A small regional children's book company, whose publisher was passionate about the subject, ultimately agreed to publish it.
The authors discussed the potential 'price' of high-profile advocacy for their book's subject matter.
Yonit Levi noted her experience as an Israeli news anchor, and Bianna Golodryga's bravery in handling the issue.

The authors acknowledge the bravery required to tell their book's story, anticipating potential criticism for its viewpoint and focus on challenging divisive narratives.
Dr. Phil praised the novel's approach for potentially breaking down barriers and preventing children from internalizing hatred from their environment.
The authors expressed gratitude for the support and highlighted their goal of reaching school districts to introduce the book to a wider audience of students.
They also discussed the potential for the book to be adapted into a movie, expressing renewed optimism and gratitude for the encouragement.