Books for Purim!

“Max’s Mask: A Purim Story” by Havvah Deevon, illustrated by Itay Bekin, published by Kalaniot Books

A touching, brilliant, and beautifully illustrated picture book, connecting the story of Purim to children’s experiences today. It’s never easy to be the new kid at school. Wearing a cape and mask helps Max adjust to his new surroundings. It’s his “superpower” and his way to feel safe, especially around a boy who knocks down his building blocks and ruins his train of cars. As Purim approaches, the teacher and students talk about how Queen Esther hid her Jewish identity from King Ahasuerus. But when Haman’s evil plan to destroy the Jews comes to light, Queen Esther bravely speaks up and saves the day. Wearing costumes reminds us that sometimes we “hide our true selves until we choose not to, just like Esther did.” This one-of-a-kind Purim story will give parents and teachers lots to discuss with their children, especially once Max’s costume is revealed.

“The Elephant and the Purim Crown” by Haviva Kierzenblat, illustrated by Rebeca Luciani, published by Kar-Ben Publishing

Drawing from her mother’s experience growing up in Ragoon, Burma (now Yangon, Myanmar), Kierzenblat shares a sweet and compassionate Purim tale about Rachel, a girl who cares for a wounded elephant. After Rachel wins the coveted Purim crown, she decides to offer it to the elephant’s owner in exchange for the tired and injured elephant. With gorgeous illustrations and relatable text, readers can draw parallels between the elephant’s plight and the story of Purim. This book is a unique edition for holiday story time.

“Rembrandt Chooses a Queen” by Kerry Olitzky and Deborah Bodin Cohen, illustrated by Cinzia Battistel, published by Kar-Ben Publishing

For art lovers of all ages, this is the story of Samuel, a yeshiva student who loves to paint and is an apprentice to Rembrandt. When Rembrandt needs a model for Queen Esther, Samuel knows his modest, humble sister, Isabel, will make the perfect queen. Sure enough, Rembrandt chooses her. Although Rembrandt wasn’t Jewish, this book shows his respect for Jewish people, which shines in his depiction of the Purim story. The Purim story is shared throughout the text. This is a touching, fascinating, and insightful tale of one of the greatest painters of all time. Readers will learn how Rembrandt inspired Jewish artists during his life and continues to do so today.

“Kayla and Kugel’s Playful Purim” by Ann D Koffsky, published by Apples and Honey Press

Joyful and delightful, the highly recommended “Kayla and Kugel” series continues with a new story to celebrate the joy of Queen Esther’s triumph over the evil Haman. Baking hamantaschen, dressing up in costumes, and attending synagogue to hear the Megillah, Kayla and Kugel help introduce Purim to our youngest children. The author’s note has excellent discussion questions to spark conversation.

“Who Brought the Hamantaschen?” by Marcia Gresko, illustrated by Steve Mack, published by Kar-Ben Publishing

Join in celebrating Purim with a party! This fun, bright board book is perfect for pre-K children to learn colors and the names of fruit while they wait to see who will bring yummy hamantaschen. With delightful costumes, this is a book to be read all year long.

“What Do You See? On Purim” by Bracha Goetz, published by Judaica Press

A must-read for pre-K children, this board book shows kids the joys of Purim. Making hamantaschen, listening to the Megillah, counting graggers, sharing shalach manot, and giving tzedukah are highlighted through bold, beautiful photographs.

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.