Book reviews for kids from Liza Wiemer, longtime local Jewish educator
Yasha’s Amazi’ Bar Mitzvah by Margaret Gurevich, published by Penguin Workshop
Yes, it’s cliché, but oh so fitting: Gurevich hit this exceptional middle-grade novel out of the ballpark. When Yasha and his parents move from Brighton, New York to Rockwood, New Jersey, Yasha’s life plunges into turmoil. Everything he loved—his Russian community, his best friends, Coney Island—is left behind. He’s bullied for things connected to his Russian identity—his name, the food he enjoys, and his clothing. His passion for the New York Mets, however, becomes a bridge, helping him to forge new friendships. Set in 1986, when the Soviet Union no longer allowed Jewish citizens to emigrate or practice Judaism, Yasha’s bar mitzvah takes on more meaning. He twins with a Russian boy unable to have a bar mitzvah, takes on a special mitzvah project, and studies hard with his rabbi. Be prepared to tear up. A must-read novel for ages 8 to 12.
March! When the Rabbis Went to Washington by Faygie Holt, published by Menucha Publishers
Little has been written about how American Jews helped their brethren in Europe during World War II, but this book helps to illuminate the important efforts 400 rabbis took to save lives. In fall of 1943, these rabbis marched on Washington, hoping to speak with President Roosevelt. They received a cold reception and believed their efforts had failed. They did not. Holt does an outstanding job of showing how their advocacy led to an important commission that ultimately saved over 200,000 Jews. With photographs, biographies on key individuals, a glossary, and more, this enlightening book is an excellent addition to school and home libraries. Perfect for middle-grade students to adults interested in history.
A Flame Burns On: Lighting the Yahrzeit Candle by Richard Ho, illustrated by Carmel Ben Ami, published by Alfred A. Knopf
This gorgeously written and illustrated picture book shares the beauty of lighting a yahrzeit candle to honor the memory of a beloved uncle. It brings back tender, joyful memories filled with love and light while acknowledging the sadness one feels over the loss of a loved one. The simple, lyrical prose and warm, detailed illustrations are accessible for children in kindergarten and beyond. Highly recommend.
Becca & Bubbe’s Bucket List by Laura Gehl, illustrated by Sarah Lynn Baker, published by Rocky Pond Books
With loving, exuberant, and delightful text and illustrations, children will clamor to create and fulfill a bucket list with a special adult in their life. Bubbe helps Becca with hers, which includes baking challah and selling lemonade to earn money for tzedakah. Yiddish is included throughout the text with a glossary in the front to define the words. Inspiring and touching, this will be a favorite for students in kindergarten and up.
Blazing Humor: Mel Brooks Is Seriously Funny!! by Ann Diament Koffsky, illustrated by Jason Kirschner, published by Intergalactic Afikomen
During these troubling times, this world needs more humor. Koffsky’s latest picture book is an excellent biography of one of the greatest Jewish comedians in modern history. It will make you smile and laugh while you learn the fascinating story of how Mel Kaminsky became the Mel Brooks. The illustrations are bright, uplifting, and realistic. Learn how Mel used humor when dealing with bullies and how he worked to bring joy into the world. As Koffsky says in her Author’s Note: “In Jewish tradition, humor has always been greatly valued.”
Liza Wiemer
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. She is a board member at the Nathan and Esther Pelz Holocaust Education Resource Center. Her picture book, “Out and About: A Tale of Giving,” is appropriate for ages 2 and up.
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