What a delightful book about Passover and welcoming Elijah. (For note: in Jewish culture it is said that Elijah, who ascended to heaven in a fiery chariot, will return to earth to announce the coming of the Messiah and a time of peace.) So in our store, the door is opened to welcome Elijah......but Elijah is not fully who you would expect!

I love the story of welcoming those who do not have a home. Of waiting expectantly. Of showing love to those who need it. THAT is true Christianity. ( )

This warmly illustrated, poetic book parallels the experiences of a young boy at a Passover seder and a small white kitten outdoors. When the boy opens the door to welcome the prophet Elijah, he finds a furry friend instead. Simple text, diverse characters, and a timeless feel make this a story to be treasured. (Sydney Taylor Book Picture Book Winner) ( )

Holiday picture book story detailing the traditions surrounding the Passover seder, especially highlighting the participation of children. A cute little kitten mimics the traditions and plays an important part at the end.
Lovely illustrations and I appreciated the ethnic diversity surrounding this particular seder. ( )

This book tells the story of a young boy celebrating the Jewish holiday of Passover with family and friends while juxtaposing it with the story of stray kitten just outside the house.

Each two-page spread is divided into what is happening inside with the boy and what is happening outside with the kitten.

Readers familiar with the Passover Seder, the ritual meal commemorating the exodus of the Israelites from Egypt, will know about the tradition of ending the ceremony by opening the door for Elijah the Prophet, whose appearance is hoped for. [In Jewish tradition, Elijah has had a number of roles making him a most welcome Passover guest, including the herald of the Messiah, miracle worker, healer, and promoter of social justice and welfare.]

More astute readers will guess that if the boy and the kitten are to meet, opening the door for Elijah will also facilitate that process. And so their anticipation will build with every reiteration of the inside and outside verses.

When the boy finally gets to open the door:

“Inside, the boy looked outside.
Outside, the kitten looked inside.”

The startled boy asked “Elijah?” The kitten answered “Meow!”

The author concludes, “And that’s how Elijah found a home.”

An Author’s Note explains more fully the Passover holiday and the rituals of the Seder.

Illustrator Susan Gal used ink, charcoal, and digital collage, dominated by bright yellow for the warm and lively inside scenes, and blue and black framing the white kitten on the outside.

Evaluation: The author has chosen a clever approach to educate readers about the Passover holiday, by combining those details with an interesting plot and an adorable kitten. Young readers aged 4 and older of all religions will enjoy this pleasing story. ( )