Book reviews for kids from Liza Wiemer, longtime local Jewish educator 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 […]
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 […]
Book reviews for kids from Liza Wiemer, longtime local Jewish educator “Under the Rubble: The Hidden Letters of the Warsaw Ghetto,” by Elisa Boxer, illustrated by Oksana Drachkovska, published by Apples and Honey Press In this powerful, emotional, and exquisitely written and illustrated picture book, readers learn about Hersh Wasser, the only person alive after World War […]
Book reviews for kids from Liza Wiemer, longtime local Jewish educator “A Place to Pray: A Tale of Friendship and Community Inspired by a True Story,” by Doreen Klein Robinson, illustrated by Yuke Li, published by Worthy Kids. Inspired by the actions of Rabbi Joshua Stanton of East End Temple in New York, this touching and […]
“Awe! It’s Everywhere!” By Chana Stiefel, illustrated by Susan Gal, published by Scholastic Press One of the most magnificent, awe-inspiring picture books ever created, readers of all ages will be captivated by the lyrical words and stunning illustrations. Explore the wonders of the world, the oohs and aahs all around us. Marvel at the beautiful, the incredible, the simple, the magnificent. We need […]
“The Miracle of Matzah Pizza: A Bible Tale by Ann Diament Koffsy,” published by Intergalactic Afikoman Pure delight (and deliciousness)! Koffsy’s humor shines through in this tall tale about how matzah pizza started, taking children through the desert with Moses and Miriam. Young and old will appreciate this beautifully illustrated and joyous Passover story. Back matter includes information on the holiday […]
“Purim Possibilities,” by Barbara Kimmel, illustrated by Irina Avgustinovich This fun board book gives children the opportunity to imagine what costume they want to wear for Purim. It introduces aspects of the holiday such as reading the Megillah and making hamantaschen. Reusable decals with various outfits are included. “Purim Baskets,” by Nancy Churnin, illustrated by Amy Schimler-Safford Giving mishloach manot – baskets […]
“Maya’s Journey: A Story of Two Great-Grandmothers” by Marcella White Campbell, illustrated by Olivia Smith, published by Kalaniot Books Based on her family’s true experience, this exquisite picture book explores identity and respect for family history. When Maya’s teacher gives an assignment requiring each student to write their personal stories, Maya is stuck. But then her parents share how her great-grandmothers were […]
“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 […]
“Every Body Is: Nurturing Self-Acceptance through Torah Values,” by Chanie Kamman and Alyssa Goldwater, illustrated by Dafne Zivan, published by Feldheim Publishers This book belongs in every Jewish home and school. The critical and deeply moving message is exactly what our children need (and some adults, too): no matter our shape or the color of […]