Here is the World: A Year of Jewish Holidays by Leslea Newman and illustrated by Susan Gal; Abrams Books for Young Readers, 2014, with reinforced binding, ISBN 978-141-971-1855; $18.95
By Donald H. Harrison
SAN DIEGO — This richly illustrated book, intended to familiarize young Jewish children with the annual cycle of holidays, tells in verse aspects of each holiday that a child is likely to remember.
For example, the Passover portion, written by author Leslea Newman, reads:
“Here is a Haggadah to put at each chair
“Here is the matzah that’s baked with such care.”
The double-page illustration by Susan Gal shows a family gathering around a Passover table. Grandpa holds a baby in his arms, grandmother is letting a granddaughter help her distribute the matzoh. Daddy is getting ready to take his chair. Mommy is finding some supplies. The young son is placing the Haggadot at different chairs, and the family dog is looking on, perhaps in bewilderment.
In the back of the book is a section for adults, where there are more detailed explanations of the holidays (Shabbat, Rosh Hashanah, Yom Kippur, Sukkot, Simchat Torah, Chanukah, Tu B’Shevat, Purim, Passover and Shavuot), as well as suggested crafts and recipes to make these holidays even more exciting family occasions.
The hard cover book also includes illustrations and verses about the changing seasons. Someone may have to explain to young readers in places like California and Florida, exactly what the following verse means, and why they can feel grateful they haven’t experienced it in person.
“Here is the snow of a fierce winter storm.
Here we are snuggled in, cozy and warm.”
While I’m not too crazy about its overly broad main title, this book is well conceptualized and well executed. It will make an excellent addition to a young Jewish family’s library.
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Harrison is editor of San Diego Jewish World. Your comment may be sent to donald.harrison@sdjewishworld.com or posted on this website, per the instructions below.