Michal Babay

The family is getting ready for Shabbat and there is much to be done before the candles are lit! Everyone has tasks (even the dog!) and some things go awry but turn out well. When it's almost time, a little parade is organized, and EVERYONE gets to pray and enjoy their special meal.
At the end there is an explanation page of examples of what a Mitzvah means to Jews.
The illustrations by Menahem Halberstadt are fun, complex, colorful, and delightful.
Well suited for reading WITH someone of any age including ESL, and great for gifting to anyone, but especially to a school or your local public library!
I requested and received a free temporary e-book on Adobe Digital Editions from Charlesbridge via NetGalley. Thank you!… (mehr)

This story is loosely based on a Yiddish Folktale called It could Always be worse. In this book the kids in school hate their lunchroom because it is crowded and noisy. So, the principle starts adding things to the lunchroom and packing it tighter. Once all things are again emptied out the kids realize they had it pretty good at the start. I like the parable of this story, but overall, I just did not like the story. I get the reasoning behind it, but they make the principle seem mean or un caring. She smiles while reading the kids letters, but that smile almost seems sinister. Maybe I am not in the right frame of mind while reading this, but it was just okay, not something I find memorable or that I would want in my collection.… (mehr)