Elsa Okon Rael

Having learned about it in school, Rivka wants to celebrate Thanksgiving more than anything. The only problem is trying to persuade her family and Rabbi. Rivka’s parents are Jewish immigrants from Poland and never celebrated the holiday, let alone heard of it. They don’t believe Pilgrims and Indians have anything to do with Jews and are wary to participate. Rivka makes the argument to the Rabbi that Thanksgiving is a holiday for all Americans to give thanks for what they have, regardless of religion or culture.
I love how it gently touches on the treatment of Jews during the early twentieth century. This could help children better understand why Rivka was so thankful to live in America and wanted to celebrate Thanksgiving. It could also be a great discussion with students to figure out what they are thankful for.
This book seamlessly blends Jewish traditions into American culture and portrays the rich cultural diversity that makes America what it is: a melting pot. This is a sweet story of family, blending new traditions with old, and always being thankful for what we have.… (mehr)

This story filled my heart with warmth as I read about a Jewish family living in New York who attends a package party to raise money to help other Jewish families get to America. This would be good to read children about sharing and helping those in need. There is a special room at the package party where men can go in secretely to either leave money in a box or take what they need for their families. Zeesie sneaks in the room and leaves the only dollar she has to help anyone in need. I really enjoy this storyline where a young child is able to recognize that others may need help more than she does. It delivered a powerful message about giving and receiving and doing all that you can to help others.… (mehr)