“The Color of Sound” by Emily Barth Isler, published by Carolrhoda Books
This fabulous middle-grade novel is about a 12-year-old girl with synesthesia. She’s a musical prodigy whose parents push her to become one of the best violinists. But Rosie rebels, and many valuable lessons are learned as the family navigates a summer at Rosie’s grandparents’ home. This book has vivid descriptions, positive Jewish rep, music to fill your heart, a grandma with Alzheimer’s, Holocaust references, and a time travel twist. I was hooked! Highly recommend!
“Abzuglutely! Battling, Bellowing Bella Abzug” by Sarah Aronson, illustrated by Andrea D’Aquino, published by Calkins Creek
Most children today probably haven’t heard of Bella Abzug, but they will never forget her after reading this powerful and inspiring picture book. Judaism was a big part of Bella’s life. Giving charity and tikkun olam were important to her, and so was justice. Those beliefs drove Bella to become a lawyer and use her voice to speak up about important issues like women’s rights, racial and social justice, equal wages, childcare, peace, and protecting the environment. This trailblazer helped change the world.
“The Mitzvah Fairy” by Danielle Joseph, illustrated by Christine Battuz, published by Kar-Ben Publishers
This adorable picture book is a wonderful introduction to mitzvahs. The simple but impactful prose and the sweet illustrations take young readers on a journey with the Mitzvah Fairy to visit the sick, give charity, honor parents, treat creatures kindly, and do good deeds for others. The back matter includes the Hebrew terms and challenges children to match them with the pictures and text.
“Shira the Singing Puppy: A Havdalah Story” by Ilana Rogel Wieder, illustrated by Alexandra Colombo, published by Kar-Ben Publishing
Dog lovers will find this book extra delightful, especially if your dog howls along to music. During the week, Shira is told to hush and shush. “Not today, Shira,” she’s told when she starts to sing. But on Saturday night, Shira’s voice is welcomed for the Havdalah blessings. The fun text and vivid illustrations highlight activities for each day of the week. The back matter explains Havdalah, including the prayers, spelling out G-d’s name in Hebrew and English.
“The Henna Helper” by Tami Lehman-Wilzig, illustrated by Yinon Ptahia, published by Apples and Honey Press
Set in the Yemenite Quarter of Tel Aviv, the neighborhood gets ready to celebrate Yael Hajbi’s henna ceremony before her wedding. As Savta is busy preparing, Gali questions why this old tradition is needed. The answer is revealed as Gali helps Savta pick out fabric for the bride’s dress, as she beads necklaces, and helps make the henna mixture. This gorgeous picture book is a fantastic way to showcase how our Jewish community is filled with rich and diverse traditions. With engaging text and joyous illustrations, young and old will be captivated. The background explains the purpose of this prewedding custom. This book provides a wonderful opportunity to bring out wedding pictures and share them 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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