Children's Books
An Etrog from Across the Sea
An Etrog from Across the Sea
A PJ Library Selection
Sydney Taylor Gold Award Winner
Sukkot is coming and Papa's letter from Corsica says he has found a spectacular etrog for the holiday. But when Rachel, Abe, Mama, and Grandpapa Luis wait at the New York dock for Papa's ship to return, it doesn't come. Grandpapa Luis tells the children not to worry and gives Rachel a beautiful silver cup. "Your papa will return home soon. And he will bring you an etrog from across the sea to put in this cup." On the first evening of Sukkot, as Mama prepares to light the candles, they hear a stagecoach. It's Papa! And he has brought the most perfect etrog. Written with Deborah Bodin Cohen, illustrated by Stacey Dressen McQueen. Published by Kar Ben Publishing.
Book of Life Podcast
https://jewishbooks.blogspot.com/2025/01/the-2025-sydney-taylor-book-awards.html
Rembrandt Chooses a queen
An Etrog from Across the Sea
A Junior Library Guild Selection
Is there a story behind Rembrandt's famous painting of Queen Esther?
In Rembrandt Chooses a Queen, the famous artist has a problem. He wants to paint a scene from the biblical Purim story, but his model is too vain to portray the beautiful yet humble Esther. Samuel, a Jewish apprentice in Rembrandt's workshop, believes his sister Isabel would be the perfect replacement. She knows the Purim story well, is inspired by Esther's bravery, and proud to be Jewish. Now they just need to convince the great artist.
Based on the real Rembrandt painting Ahasuerus and Haman at the Feast of Esther, this inspiring story of Judaism and art intersecting in 17th century Amsterdam includes an author's note about Purim and a short biography of Rembrandt by a professor of art history. Written with Deborah Bodin Cohen, illustrated by Cinzia Battistel. Published by Apples and Honey.
Just Like Queen Esther
One More Day of Passover
Atara loves to wear her crown - to the library, to the dentist, even to her swim lessons. It gives her confidence, and shows the world that she is a girl, not a boy, like everyone thought at first. But when Atara reads the story of Queen Esther, on the Jewish holiday of Purim - she realizes that you don't need a costume to express who you really are... Written with Ari Moffic, Illustrated by Rena Yehuda Newman. Published by Jessica Kingsley Publishers.
“Atara is clothed with strength and splendor; she looks to the future with joy. Like the Purim story itself, Atara reveals her powerful truth of self worth and holy pride to a world that is worthy of accepting her with love.”
Rabbi Mike Moskowitz, Scholar in Residence for Trans and Queer Jewish Studies at Congregation Beit Simchat Torah
One More Day of Passover
One More Day of Passover
Spending the end of his spring break visiting his cousin Yoni in Morocco, a young boy experiences new traditions and surprises. The visit coincides with Passover, and he learns about Mimouna, a post-Passover celebration unique to Moroccan Jews. The holiday includes Muslim neighbors preparing and sharing festive foods, symbolizing goodwill and unity. The boy is delighted by the lively gatherings and can't wait to end the day with pizza, his family's usual post-Passover treat.
Illustrated by Rebecca Lipson,
Published by Higher Ground Books and Media.
An Invitation to Passover
An Association of Jewish Libraries Holiday Highlights Selection
When Hannah's extended family isn't able to join her for their traditional Passover seder, she invites her diverse group of friends to experience the holiday with her. From Ha-joon's Korean kimchi, to Monique's hymn lyrics, each friend brings a bit of their own culture to the celebration. And with each guest the themes of freedom, hope, and thanks become more meaningful. A note tells the Passover story and a glossary defines vocabulary. Written with Deborah Bodin Cohen, illustrated by Mariia Kolker. Published by Kalaniot.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KhvXTyiBua0
The Littlest Candle: A Hanukkah Story
"This uplifting tale is a perfect Hanukkah gift for families to treasure year after year, showing young readers—in the true spirit of the season—that no matter how small they are, with the right attitude and a kind heart, they can make a big difference." Bucks County Magazine
Little Flicker is always cheering his friends on with words of encouragement and support. But as the smallest candle in the box, why should he be chosen to be the shamash in the Hanukkah menorah? Isn’t the job of lighting all the others candles too big for him? As it turns out, it’s the size of your heart that matters, and in that department, Little Flicker is huge! Written with Rabbi Jesse Olitzky, illustrated by Jen Kostman, published by Kalaniot Books.
Rabbi Jesse Olitzky reads the book aloud to the nursery school at Congregation Beth El, South Orange, NJ
An interview with the authors:
