“Neshama,” by Marcella Pixley, published by Candlewick Press
Written in free verse poetry, this emotional book is about a girl who can see ghosts, including her aunt, who died when she was young. Many important relatable issues are addressed for students in middle grade and above, such as bullying, antisemitism, family estrangements, and forgiveness. Some questions students might ponder are: What happens when we die? Does our soul linger on earth to watch over loved ones or to right a wrong? This book would make an excellent selection for a student-adult book club.
“My Little Book of Big Jewish Holidays,” by Hannah Shafiroff, published by Bloomsbury
This is a treasure trove of easy-to-understand information about ten Jewish holidays, explaining what they are and why and how we celebrate them. Fully illustrated with bright, joyful drawings, this book is perfect for adults to share with young children or for middle graders to read on their own. It will make an outstanding gift to anyone who knows little about Judaism and is interested in learning some history, traditions, and Hebrew words connected to each holiday. A must for every classroom and school library.
“The Three Little Sheep: A Tale for Sukkot,” by Ann Koffsky, published by Green Bean Books
Inspired by the Three Little Pigs, this Sukkot tale is pure delight. Three sheep build different sukkahs. Poor wolf feels left out and blows two of them down. The third sheep invites him to share in the celebration, teaching the important mitzvah of welcoming guests. Fabulous illustrations complement the humorous text. I loved this book, and so will your children.
“Slow Down, Shoshi! It’s Shabbat in Uganda,” by Shoshana Nambi, illustrated by Moran Yogev, published by Kalaniot Books
Stunning illustrations highlight the beautiful story of Shoshi, a girl who wants to help her family prepare for Shabbat in Uganda. She tries to rush her jajja (grandpa), but he has his coffee business, so first they need to pick and sell the beans. Shoshi is impatient. In her rush, she forgets to buy candles. Thankfully, her mom has two oil lamps that they can light to welcome Shabbat. This book is an excellent addition to showcase Jewish diversity and joy of community. The back matter gives a vibrant explanation of the Abayudaya Jewish community in Uganda, as well as a detailed glossary.
“More than Enough: Inspired by Maimonides’s Golden Ladder of Giving,” by Richard Michelson, illustrated by Joe Cepeda, published by Peachtree Books
Throughout this beautifully written and diversely illustrated picture book, readers will learn about Maimonides’ Eight Levels of Tzedakah. A boy named Moses begins by reluctantly giving to a person in need and ends up seeing the value in helping someone get a job so they can support themselves. “Little enough is more than enough to share” is a phrase repeated throughout the story. Valuable back matter on Maimonides’ Golden Ladder of Giving is included.
“Rembrandt’s Blessing,” by Tami Lehman-Wilzig, illustrated by Anita Barghigiani, published by Kar-Ben Publishing
Rembrandt’s love for painting Biblical scenes was deeply enhanced because of his special relationship with the Jewish community in Amsterdam and one of their leading rabbis, Menashe Ben Israel. Although a work of historical fiction, this magnificent book highlights how the Jewish community influenced him. The story shares how the rabbi helped Rembrandt understand Bible stories by translating the Hebrew text so that his paintings would reflect the most authentic interpretation. Because of that bond, Rembrandt created illustrations for the rabbi’s book, “Piedra Gloriosa.” To learn more about the blessing in the book’s title, I highly recommend reading it with your children.
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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