“An Etrog From Across the Sea,” by Kerry Olitzky and Deborah Bodin Cohen, illustrated by Stacey Dressen McQueen
Set in 1729 and inspired by Jewish merchant and trader Luis Moises Gomez, this story follows his travel to Corsica. There, he finds spectacular etrogs. In a letter, he writes that he will bring one home to America for his family to use for Sukkot. The trip takes longer than he anticipated. But great news! He arrives just in time for the holiday. Detailed period illustrations and fascinating narration will engage K-4+ students to adults.
“Sukkot is Coming,” by Tracy Newman, illustrated by Viviana Garofoli, published by Kar-Ben Publishing
This delightful board book shares the joys of building a sukkah, decorating it, shaking the lulav and etrog, and inviting guests to have a meal. It shows diverse characters and a wide range of ages. The illustrations are bright and inviting. A lovely introduction to the holiday. (Simchat Torah is Coming board book is also available.)
“Sukkos Guess Who? A Lift the Flap Book,” by Ariella Stern, illustrated by Patti Argoff, published by Hachai Publishing
Children love books where they can lift flaps to see what lies below. This is a wonderful book to learn about the holiday with riddles and questions. Students will learn about topics from building a sukkah, to what is Schach, to shaking the lulav and etrog and welcoming guests. I believe this is a book students will ask to be read again and again.
“A Bright Light in Buenos Aires,” by Santiago Nader, illustrated by Paula Wegman, published by Kalaniot.
Dani has a bright light that follows him everywhere. People notice, and Dani finds it annoying because it calls attention to him. He wants to fit in. His mom assures him that his light is beautiful. But it’s not until his birthday that Dani fully understands the power of his light. This gorgeous picture book illuminates the message of owning your identity and that each of us has a light, which we need to share with the world. With diverse characters, this book sends an important message about the special spark we all have. Highly recommend.
The Chronicle ‘Book Corner’ column is by author Liza Wiemer, of Fox Point, who has taught in nine of our Milwaukee-area Jewish religious schools and day schools. Her latest novel, “The Assignment,” is appropriate for ages 12 and up.
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