Diversity

Two New Rosh Hashanah Picture Books for 2026

 

TWO NEW PICTURE BOOKS FOR ROSH HASHANAH

 

 

 

THE SWEETEST ROSH HASHANAH
Written by Mara Bergman
Illustrated by Aura Lewis
(Candlewick Press; $18.99, Ages 4-7)

 

This feel-good picture book contains all the right elements (or should I say ingredients?) for the Rosh Hashanah holiday and an enjoyable read-aloud. Part of “The Festivals of the World” series, The Sweetest Rosh Hashanah focuses on the Jewish New Year and a little girl named Ellie. She loves helping her parents prepare for the New Year meal, especially the challah, the honey cake, and the apples and honey. But when she’s reminded that her grandparents, aunt, uncle, and cousins will be joining them, she remembers how bossy her cousin Lara had been on her previous visit.

Ellie decides that, rather than having Lara take something of hers and leave with it like she did last time—Ellie’s special paint set, to be precise—she’d hide her special toys from Lara. What a surprise, then, when Lara shows up with a handmade card apologizing for taking the paint set and for her bossy behavior. Ellie takes her cue from the meaning of Rosh Hashanah and forgives her cousin. In the spirit of Rosh Hashanah and turning over a new leaf, the cousins move forward with love and open minds, “… the perfect start to a sweet new year.” Lewis’s warm palette captures the festive moments in a flat, folk art style that I love, as a diverse family gathers to celebrate the holiday. Bergman captures a common childhood emotion and creates a joyful picture book in which forgiveness offers a chance for new beginnings.

With four pages of backmatter in this 32-page picture book, the story unfolds quickly, with every spread moving it toward a heartwarming conclusion. Kids will find a step-by-step recipe for making challah as well as a New Year’s card craft activity.

 

STELLA’S SPECIAL RECIPE: A Rosh Hashanah Story
Written by Melissa Stoller
Illustrated by Valerya Milovanova
(Kar-Ben Publishing; $19.99. Ages 2-8)

 

Meet Stella, the narrator of Stella’s Special Recipe. Now that she’s old enough to help her mom make the stuffed cabbage rolls, a family recipe passed down for generations, Stella can’t wait to get started. She doesn’t have to go far to gather the ingredients, since she lives on a farm where they’re easy to pick. Stoller skillfully uses catchy language tools such as onomatopoeia, alliteration, consonance, assonance, and a repeatable refrain that grows longer as mouthwatering ingredients are added.

“We chop-drop tomatoes into a pot for sauce.
Sizzle, sizzle. Steam swirls.”

 

Pure yum! One tradition that’s also been passed down in different colored ink from Stella’s bubbe, nana, and mom is adding their own personal touch. “‘Could I add my own dash or dollop?'” I wonder.” This got me curious to see what new recipe variation would get selected. When Stella added honey, I knew she’d found the perfect addition that simply shouted her name to keep the sweet family tradition going.

I’d be lying if I didn’t mention that my nana’s stuffed cabbage ranked up there with the best I’ve ever eaten, but I unfortunately don’t have the recipe. I’m thankful this picture book includes a recipe for me to test out. Milovanova’s illustrations, full of Stella’s energy and enthusiasm, pair beautifully with Stoller’s inviting prose.

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Bilingual Picture Book Review – Tío Ricky Doesn’t Speak English / Tío Ricky no habla inglés

TIo Ricky Doesn’t Speak English
• Tío Ricky no habla
inglés

Written by Maritere R. Bellas
 
Illustrated by Jayri Gómez

(Lil’ Libros; $19.99, Ages 4-8)

 

 

 

Tio Ricky Doesn't Speak English cover Tio Ricky and nephew

 

 

 

Publisher Description:

“… This heartwarming English-Spanish story shows that speaking two languages is powerful and you don’t need a cape to be a hero.”

 

Review:

 

This is a WAY overdue post of Tío Ricky Doesn’t Speak English/Tío Ricky no habla inglés, written by Maritere R. Bellas and illustrated by Jayri Gómez, a picture book so well crafted that I wish I’d been able to review last year. The good news is that I’ve reread it, and once again, Bellas’s characters still jumped off the pages into my heart. Not only do I enjoy bilingual books, but I also love learning something new. In this case, the not-uncommon need for bilingual English-Spanish speakers to help their Spanish-only-speaking relatives, and how it can sometimes feel like a “have to” rather than a “want to” for young children. This must be so relatable for many readers.

This opening spread, full of excitement, sets up the story with both the prose and the emotive art:

 

Tio Ricky Doesnt Speak English int1 Tio Ricky is here.
Interior spread from Tío Ricky Doesn’t Speak English • Tío Ricky no habla inglés, written by Maritere R. Bellas and illustrated by Jayri Gómez, Lil’ Libros ©2025.

 

 

The main character’s delight at his uncle’s visit is palpable, but pretty soon, readers see there are strings attached. Wherever the main character and his uncle go, the child is called on to translate, be that at the bank, at the market, with neighbors, or with the mail carrier. While Papi explains that helping each other is what families do, it doesn’t seem to ease the young boy’s burden.

 

 

Tio Ricky Doesn't Speak English int2 Tio Ricky needs translation.
Interior art from Tío Ricky Doesn’t Speak English • Tío Ricky no habla inglés, written by Maritere R. Bellas and illustrated by Jayri Gómez, Lil’ Libros ©2025.

 

 

 

A trip to the pharmacy to get medicine for Tío Ricky builds tension and reveals the extent of the narrator’s frustration. What the boy doesn’t realize is that his uncle feels the same way about being unable to communicate clearly with the staff. His facial expression speaks volumes.

 

 

Tio Ricky Doesnt Speak English int3 Tio Ricky at pharmacy.
Interior spread from Tío Ricky Doesn’t Speak English • Tío Ricky no habla inglés, written by Maritere R. Bellas and illustrated by Jayri Gómez, Lil’ Libros ©2025.

 

 

When the boy overhears his uncle practicing his English at home, the boy’s empathy shows. I love that playing dominoes is a way for these two to connect and a great opportunity to teach some English words. In the art, readers can see on the characters’ faces how much they’re enjoying each other’s company. It’s nice that some of that annoyance has passed simply by sharing a good time together.

 

 

 

Tio Ricky Doesnt Speak English int4 Tio Ricky learning English.
Interior spread from Tío Ricky Doesn’t Speak English • Tío Ricky no habla inglés, written by Maritere R. Bellas and illustrated by Jayri Gómez, Lil’ Libros ©2025.

 

 

 

But when Tío Ricky complains that his head hurts and he feels dizzy, his nephew steps up and calls 911, something he learned from his parents. Just like he learned the value of family members supporting each other. I liked watching the main character grow over the course of the book. It felt natural and satisfying to see him finally embrace his skill—one I sure wish I had—when faced with an emergency.

“The paramedic tells me Tío is lucky to have me
there to help. I smile.
“Your tío is going to be fine. He just needs to take
his medicine and rest.”

Bilingualism is a gift. It’s why we sent our daughter to a bilingual school when we lived in Germany. But the truth is, many children do not appreciate this gift until they are older. Tío Ricky Doesn’t Speak English/Tío Ricky no habla inglés is an important story to share so children in similar bilingual situations will see that they are not the only kids who have to translate. It’s also a reminder that, while there may initially have been reluctance on the part of the young translator to be on call for their non-English-speaking relative, the benefits far outweighed the drawbacks. In fact, it ends up being a win-win for everyone!

I hope that by sharing this book, parents can help children embrace and celebrate the “superpower” of bilingualism.

Order your copy here.

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The Book of Candles: Eight Poems for Hanukkah

 

THE BOOK OF CANDLES:
Eight Poems for Hanukkah

Written by Laurel Snyder

Illustrated by Leanne Hatch

  (Clarion Books; $19.99, Ages 4-8)

 

 

The_Book_of_Candles_cover_child_and_cat_looking_at_menorah

 

★Starred Review – Publishers Weekly 

Tonight is the first night of Hanukkah. HAPPY HANUKKAH!

For those of you who read this blog regularly, you’ll know how much I love poetry, so when I saw that there was a new Hanukkah book of poems, I jumped at the chance to review it. The Book of Candles, written by Laurel Snyder and illustrated by Leanne Hatch, is a welcoming and lyrical look at the festival of lights.

I enjoyed spending time with the family of five featured in this picture book, the youngest of whom is affectionately called Sugarpop by his mom. The poems are titled for each night of Hanukkah, spanning from the first night to the eighth, the last night.

In a dark, dark room,

one thin candle

wakes, bursts to life

 

So begins the joyful celebration. It’s also a great idea that, in addition to every poem, a helpful info box with thoughts on that particular night in each poem is included.

 

 

The Book of Candles int1 boy wishing Happy Hanukkah to man in street.
Interior art from The Book of Candles, written by Laurel Snyder and illustrated by Leanne Hatch, Clarion Books, ©2025.

 

 

And even though I have observed this holiday for decades, I still learned something new. For example, Snyder explains the approach to lighting the candles on a Friday night, which is also Shabbat (the Sabbath).

 

A Thought for the Fourth Night: On Friday night, we light the Hanukkah candles at least eighteen minutes before sunset because, for observant Jews, it’s against the rules to strike a match after Shabbat has started.

 

Some poems are playful while others are more solemn, but all are engaging. Together, they make this book about a moving and meaningful celebration come to life. I especially found the scenes with Sugarpop and the cat to be sweet and relatable since our family cats have always been present for Hanukkah, whether beside the menorah, mesmerized by the flickering candles, or seeking a taste of latkes with sour cream. Many readers will be delighted by the poem describing the family visiting the grandparents, when the youngest was finally allowed to light the candles. And who won’t be impressed when, in another scene, a flat tire means the family will have to improvise, using the banana Hanukkiah hack. That, along with convenience-store birthday candles standing in for Hanukkah candles, makes for a most memorable holiday!

 

 

The Book of Candles int2 flat tire.
Interior spread from The Book of Candles, written by Laurel Snyder and illustrated by Leanne Hatch, Clarion Books, ©2025.

 

There are myriad reasons to find The Book of Candles a fresh new take on Hanukkah, Hatch’s art being one. She captures the warmth of the holiday, particularly in her depiction of the candles burning. She also conveys the family’s closeness in a laid-back way while maintaining the holiday’s importance. I can definitely picture children wanting to have this read to them each night of Hanukkah along with many of the other wonderful Hanukkah books out this year.

 

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Picture Book Review – Body Beautiful

BODY BEAUTIFUL
Written by Susan Verde
Illustrated by Steph Littlebird
(Abrams BYR; $19.99, Ages 4-8)

 

 

Body Beautiful cover Black girl hugging herself as kids play in background.

 

 

Did you know your body is beautiful? #1 New York Times bestselling author, Susan Verde, poses this thoughtful question to young readers in her new picture book, Body Beautiful. The book takes children on a journey that celebrates the magnificent wonders of our bodies.

The story starts with a lovely illustration (below) of a fetus sleeping soundly inside its mother’s womb.

“You were born from a beautiful body

who was born from another beautiful body

and so on going way way way back.”

Indigenous artist Steph Littlebird illustrates our continuing connectivity by showing the planets circling the mother and unborn child using soft colors of purples, pinks, and yellows. Littlebird’s vibrant art moves us forward as we turn the page to a list showing all the many ways to describe the human body. It’s a long list because we are rightfully different. I love how this spread conveys that we are all so unique that we can’t be categorized as just one entity.

 

 

Body Beautiful int1 Pregnant woman You were born from another beautiful body.
Interior spread from Body Beautiful, written by Susan Verde and illustrated by Steph Littlebird, Abrams BYR ©2025.

 

 

However, Verde explains, these descriptions are only part of what makes our bodies beautiful.  MIRACULOUS, GROWING, and SPEAKING are words used to express how each of us is more than what is seen on the outside. UNIQUE is spelled out alongside a girl and a boy sitting in the wilderness, amidst the green trees, birds, owls, and butterflies. The story’s lyrical language takes the reader through the outer vessels of our bodies to our inner minds that tell us when our body has something to say. One of my favorite lines is Asking you to listen—our bodies often tell us when something isn’t right. We just need to stop and listen. As a certified yoga instructor, this resonated with me because it’s something I do and encourage others to as well.

 

Body Beautiful int2 wonderful descriptions.
Interior spread from Body Beautiful, written by Susan Verde and illustrated by Steph Littlebird, Abrams BYR ©2025.

 

 

Littlebird’s uplifting art depicts kids of all shapes and sizes, from tall to short, large to small, from white to brown, and everything in between, as well as those with varying abilities, each moving happily together. Your body is also WISE— Keeping a record of the joy, the sadness, the wonder, the stories of your resilience, the lessons learned. This book serves as a meaningful reminder to children (and to adults). When we see the young black girl hugging herself, we read Your body is YOUR OWN.

 

 

Body Beautiful int3 diverse children Your body is expressive.
Interior spread from Body Beautiful, written by Susan Verde and illustrated by Steph Littlebird, Abrams BYR ©2025.

 

 

The story flows, inviting read-alouds and conversation. It then concludes with children walking through a field, reminding the reader that the most beautiful part of your body is YOU, and there will be nothing more beautiful than that.

The backmatter includes an Author’s Note explaining how Verde got the idea for this story. There’s also an Illustrator’s Note that encourages young people to feel proud of their bodies. This is an important topic that should be taught to children at a young age, before they begin judging themselves for what they think they should be. We live in a time when stories like this need to be told because you can never share too much about mindfulness, self-love, and kindness with children.

  • Reviewed by Ronda Einbinder
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Picture Book Review – The Juneteenth Alphabet

 

 

THE JUNETEENTH ALPHABET

Written by Andrea Underwood Petifer

Illustrated by Ana Latese

(Sourcebooks; $14.99; Ages 3-6)

 

 

 

The Juneteenth Alphabet cover children marching and playing instruments.

 

 

 

Review:  

For decades, advocate and teacher Opal Lee fought to give Juneteenth the recognition it deserves. In 2021, her hard work and dedication came to fruition when the U.S. government, under President Joe Biden, officially recognized Juneteenth as a holiday. Author Andrea Underwood Petifer saw the recognition as an opportunity to educate both young children and adults about the history behind June 19th, which inspired her newly released children’s book, The Juneteenth Alphabet, with illustrations by Ana Latese.

 

 

The Juneteenth Alphabet int1 A is for Album.
Interior spread from The Juneteenth Alphabet written by Andrea Underwood Petifer and illustrated by Ana Latese, Duopress ©2025.

 

 

Creating a story that explains 200 years of slavery, the Emancipation Proclamation that was meant to end all slavery, and the resistance of Texas to follow through with freeing the slaves for over two years is a lot for children (and quite honestly, adults) to grasp. Petifer has articulated the complexity in an alphabet book that breaks down the history from A to Z, starting with A is for Album (photo album that is) and Ancestors, and ending with Z is for Zeal, “an eagerness to endure after hearing no. It is brave, it is hope, it is joy, it is determination.”

Before the reader dives into the alphabet story, Petifer opens with the background of Juneteenth and how it’s regarded in African American communities as the second Independence Day. Four million African American people were not thought of when the Declaration of Independence was created, so this holiday celebrates the troops from the Union Army arriving in Galveston, Texas, two and a half years after independence was declared to free the remaining slaves.

 

 

The Juneteenth Alphabet int2 F is for flag and freedom.
Interior art from The Juneteenth Alphabet written by Andrea Underwood Petifer and illustrated by Ana Latese, Duopress ©2025.

 

 

Illustrator Ana Latese creates full-color jubilant art that beautifully complements the story using Procreate, iPad Pro, or Apple Pencil. The spreads feature brown and black hands held high, a red, white, and blue Juneteenth flag flown, and the African American community smiling while parading in the streets as gospel singers belt out the hymn Happy Day drawn above H is for Happy.

 

 

The Juneteenth Alphabet int3 H is for happy.
Interior art from The Juneteenth Alphabet written by Andrea Underwood Petifer and illustrated by Ana Latese, Duopress ©2025.

 

One of my favorite items in this book is the fact/info bubbles. The reader is asked to turn to their child and discuss questions that pertain to the topic on the page. Underneath the letter H, the bubble asks, “What are you feeling?” and then asks the child to share their thoughts with the reader. I think introducing social and emotional learning is a great way for kids to better understand this challenging and complex time in history. J is for Joy explains that when we express joy, we take back our story. Great words of wisdom!

Representing the letter O, Opal Lee, dressed in bright purple, stands at a podium with the White House behind her as she petitions the government to recognize the holiday. And, of course, the reader turns the page to S is for the Sounds of Songs that are Sweet and Savory; while T is for Talents and Traditions. Black rodeos, parades, and poetry readings prove there is more than just pain to the story.

The Juneteenth Alphabet concludes with a brief summary of terms (there are A LOT of new words for young readers). Children learn the meaning behind Equality, the quality of being the same. This was a very informative book, and I have to admit, I learned a lot about Juneteenth history that I was unaware of before reading this picture book. Parents can share this book over and over again, explaining the past while teaching their children the importance of treating all people the same. Latese creates a banner that reads “Fight for the Future,” and I think those are imperative words to ponder on June 19th. Happy Juneteenth, everyone!

 

  • Reviewed by Ronda Einbinder

 

 

 

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The Ways We Say “I Love You” for Valentine’s Day 2025

 

 

THE WAYS WE SAY “I LOVE YOU”

Written and illustrated by Caroline Hadilaksono

(Orchard Books; $18.99, Ages 4-8)

 

 

 

The Ways We Say I Love You cover mom hugging child.

 

 

Publisher Description:

For some families, saying ‘I love you’ comes out easily. For others, they show ‘I love you’ in other caring ways. Author-illustrator Caroline Hadilaksono’s sweet story explores the many thoughtful ways we show our love to each other, whether it’s spending time together or hidden in a ‘have you eaten yet?’

Review:

 

As I read her thoughtfully crafted picture book The Ways We Say “I Love You,” I felt as if author-illustrator Caroline Hadilaksono was speaking to me. I grew up in a family where I knew I was loved, but the sentiment was shown way more frequently than said. I’ve written essays about how my father took me shopping and my mother took me to the theater, but hearing those three words verbalized was uncommon in my family.

 

 

The Ways We Say I Love You int1 siblings reading together.
Interior spread from The Ways We Say “I Love You.” Written and illustrated by Caroline Hadilaksono, Orchard Books ©2024.

 

 

What’s so wonderful about this picture book is that it offers children who have been raised in households similar to mine the opportunity to see that actions often speak louder than words. Hadilaksono also gently conveys in her warm illustrations that many cultures demonstrate their love this way, which doesn’t mean a child is loved any less. The way the siblings share a story time (see the illustration above) says love. The tender way the parents watch and don’t interrupt the special moment says love. That’s why this book would be great to share for Valentine’s Day, especially if the giver knows the book is depicting them. It’s a great way to start the conversation about all the different ways there are to say I love you.

 

 

The Ways We Say I Love You int2 children grandma cooking together.
Interior spread from The Ways We Say “I Love You.” Written and illustrated by Caroline Hadilaksono, Orchard Books ©2024.

 

Spending time with a grandparent, great aunt, or other esteemed elder is a special way to show love. Sharing and passing along a traditional family recipe while cooking together also demonstrates love. The various spreads show diverse families and the love their actions convey, whether that’s feeding a child, talking long distance on a video call, or teaching a child to ride a bike, being there if they fall, and cheering them on when they succeed.

In her touching backmatter Author’s Note, Hadilaksono writes that in her Indonesian culture, her parents never said, “I love you,” and people didn’t generally say it to one another. It was much more of an “American thing” from movies and TV. She captures the heart of her picture book when she explains that while she’s still learning how to say “I love you” to the important people in her life, she also understands that there are many ways to say” I love you.” The beautiful artwork, rendered in watercolor and gouache textures, was composed digitally and adds to the feel-good mood this story brings to readers.

 

 

 

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Picture Book Review – Juneteenth Is

 

JUNETEENTH IS
Written by Natasha Tripplett
Illustrated by Daniel J. O’Brien
(Chronicle Kids; $17.99, Ages 5-8)

 

 

Juneteenth Is cover family sitting on front steps with Juneteenth flag.

 

 

From the first page of Juneteenth Is, when the young girl wakes up “to the smoky smell of Daddy’s slow-cooking brisket” on the barbeque outside, I knew I was in for a treat. Author Tripplett wastes no time getting the main characters on the move to grab good sidewalk seats to watch the parade. O’Brien’s digitally rendered art, imbued with emotion and movement, makes us want to reach out to grab the candy being tossed as jubilant music is played. His detailed illustrations invite careful study and Tripplett’s prose keeps the story flowing at a steady pace, much like the parade itself.

Later on, the family gathers at Granddaddy’s house in what is one of my favorite spreads. While the main character takes photos, other people are playing dominoes, and some are playing music. “Juneteenth is ladies singing in the kitchen.” There is lots of activity but everyone takes some time out to watch an informal game of basketball before heading back indoors for a prayer and a meal. A great line, “Juneteenth is generations of family recipes,” is followed by an array of hearty food including “Secret rub on finger-lickin’ chicken, juicy mouth-on-fire hot links, mac ‘n’ cheese, collard greens, potato salad …” and much more including, because what’s a celebration without tales to go with it, “… stories from the past.”

 

 

Juneteenth Is int1 Juneteenth parade.
Interior spread from Juneteenth Is written by Natasha Tripplett and illustrated by Daniel J. O’Brien, Chronicle Kids ©2024.

 

Juneteenth is so much more than the food and all the fun. Readers will see in this picture book’s art how in this family’s home, photographs play an important role. Not only is the little girl capturing the festivities on film she is also looking at Granddaddy’s wall of photos honoring family members past and present. “Juneteenth is the history lesson not taught in school.” He explains to his granddaughter about the hardships their enslaved ancestors endured, and about the opportunities denied them. Then came that historic day when “General Granger rode into Galveston, Texas and read the order: Slaves are free.” That day was June 19, 1865. It’s now a federal holiday.

 

Juneteenth Is int2 Juneteenth is the house getting louder.
Interior spread from Juneteenth Is written by Natasha Tripplett and illustrated by Daniel J. O’Brien, Chronicle Kids ©2024.

 

“Former slaves marched in the first Juneteenth parade.” And the marching continues every Juneteenth to celebrate that freedom as the Black community unites to reflect on the struggles and lives lost while also looking forward in hope for the future of our country and the Black community. “Juneteenth is all of us.” “We are America.” Proud, powerful words bring the book to a close but not before checking out Tripplett explanation of the significance the color red plays on the Juneteenth celebrations. Add this book to your bookshelf today to give your children a meaningful introduction to this important American holiday.

Find out more about the author, Natasha Tripplett, here.

Find out more about the illustrator, Daniel J. O’Brien, here.

 

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Best Mother’s Day Books 2024

 

 

BEST MOTHER’S DAY BOOKS 2024

∼ A ROUNDUP ∼

 

 

 

I Really Like Mom cover Bear holding cub.I REALLY LIKE MOM
Written by Su-an Lee
Illustrated by So-ra Kim
Translated by Paige Morris
(Abrams BYR; $15.99, Ages 4-8)

“With a sweet, universal message and charming illustrations full of irresistibly cute animals, author Su-an Lee and illustrator So-ra Kim’s picture book I Really Like Mom is a loving tribute to moms everywhere.”

Translated from Korean, this upbeat picture book featuring many different animal mom and child pairs will make young readers feel good all over. “I really like Mom,” is repeated throughout the story as it reinforces all the special things moms do. Whether it’s tucking their child into bed, or whipping up a yummy breakfast, Moms work their magic. Moms sing sweet songs and give loving kisses. “She praises me for playing nicely with my friends
as we take turns sharing my favorite toy.” I’m glad Lee chose to include that compliment since a mom’s praise means so much to children. The story ends with a human mom and her child cuddling at bedtime bringing a full day to a calm close. Kim’s included an adorable ladybug who crawls in through a bedroom window early on and is fun to spot in various scenes. Her soft-looking, sweet digitally created illustrations add to the charm of this celebration of moms. • Reviewed by Ronna Mandel

 

Mamá's Panza cover Mamá hold son.MAMÁ’S PANZA
Written by Isabel Quintero
Illustrated by Iliana Galvez 
(Kokila; $18.99, Available in Spanish, Ages 3-7)

“Mamá’s Panza is a young boy’s love letter to his mother, along with a celebration of our bodies and our bellies.”
“Panza is another word for belly,” says a little boy on the first page as his mother performs a yoga pose. He goes on to describe many types of bellies. Some are “Big, round, soft, or small and hard … ” His favorite panza belongs to his mamá.
This heartwarming story is a gently lyrical ode to one boy’s mother from when she first felt his movements in her belly before he was born to the present. I loved the language and the gorgeous artwork in the spreads during Mamá’s pregnancy. Sentences such as “Mamá dressed her panza in bright colors and flowers to show the world that she was blooming,” convey a joyful spirit that can be seen on every page. Mamá’s panza is a fun place to play like a “whole mountain to climb,” and a comforting place to be cradled at day’s end. Best of all, not only does this child adore his mamá’s panza but she does as well. It carried him during her pregnancy and kept him alive. It “keeps me alive as well. How could I not love it?” Such a moving testament to self-love and body positivity. How could I not adore this touching book? • Reviewed by Ronna Mandel

 

Mother's Day Here I Come cover princess mom with kids at tea party.MOTHER’S DAY, HERE I COME!
Written by D. J. Steinberg
Illustrated by Emanuel Wiemans
(Grosset & Dunlap; $6.99  Paperback Original, Ages 4-6)   

Celebrate Mother’s Day with this collection of sweet and funny poems from the author of the hugely popular Kindergarten, Here I Come! The bestselling Here I Come! series offers parents and kids a way to learn about new experiences, holidays, and life events. Each book in the series features delightful poems about all the different moments and traditions children can expect, as well as a page of stickers.

This cheerful picture book, a new one in the bestselling series, is packed with poems on different mom-centric subjects. Here’s one depicting kids jumping on the bed called “Wake up!” which should resonate with moms (and dads) everywhere.

On Mother’s Day, Mama slept late,
but her three little cubs couldn’t wait . . .

They jumped on her bed.
“ Wake up!” they all said.
“ We’re ready to go CELEBRATE!”

From moms around the world to working moms, from handmade cards (legible or scribbled) to macaroni jewelry gifts, Steinberg addresses aspects of mothers’ lives in fresh, fun ways. Diverse characters populate the book and Wiemans’ art brings an added touch of humor to complement each poem.

Like the other books in this series, Mother’s Day, Here I Come! is sure to be a hit with children who want to honor their moms (or mums) on Mother’s Day. Kids’ll love the page of stickers too! • Reviewed by Ronna Mandel

 

Illustrated by Tatiana Kamshilina
(Doubleday BYR; $18.99, Ages 3-7)
This book is an homage to the adults who have taken on the role of mother for children who have lost their biological parent and children who get an extra adult to love. Stephanie Stansbie’s
picture book Always Your Stepmom is a companion book to Always Your Stepdad inspired by the
loss of her biological father at age one and the addition of her new father at the age of five.
Tatiana Kamshilina’s illustrations take the reader back in time when a smiling redheaded woman
appears on the doorstep to meet the son of what we assume is her boyfriend. The dark-haired boy
smiles as he accepts a book from this unfamiliar lady. Stansbie writes in rhyme making this sweet story a heartfelt read. The trio creates new life experiences exploring national parks, while still honoring the boy’s past with photos from when he learned his first words. If I had been there when you learned your first words, I could never have cherished you more.
As the reader turns the page, new photos are placed in the photo album of the dad, his son, and the stepmom and the new life they have created together. As a new stepmom, she is shy and awkward during the boy’s fifth birthday party. We see the change in family dynamics a year later at his sixth birthday party when the kids are frolicking and she is socializing with other adults.
I’ll love you forever. You’ve changed me for good! This beautiful tribute to blended families is a loving bedtime read for both adults and children and a wonderful addition to our Mother’s Day Roundup. •Reviewed by Ronda Einbinder

 

The_I_Can_Say_Mama_Book_cover_photo_of_mom_and_babyTHE I CAN SAY MAMA BOOK:
A MY FIRST LEARN-TO-TALK BOOK
Written by Stephanie Cohen
(Source Books; $9.99, Ages 0-3 years)

Licensed and Certified Speech Language Pathologist Stephanie Cohen has created a board book designed to teach babies words used in daily routines, along with one of the best first words a baby can say “Mama.” Each page shows a photograph of a mother and her child with word bubbles expressing what Mama is teaching the baby to say.

The opening page is designed to attach a photo of Mama and each page after shows the action and the saying. “Hi, Mama!” The laughing baby says while being lifted by Mama out of the crib. “Up, Mama.” “Kiss, Mama.” “Hug, Mama.” Individual pages of vivid photos of diverse mothers show the bond between the two.

As the babies age, the words change. “Walk, Mama” and “Book, Mama” with Mama and child reading together. This is also a great book for potty training as the child learns words like “Pee-Yoo Mama” which should make everyone laugh. The back matter explains how this book should be used and how repetition is vital in teaching these keywords. “Just remember to pause each time after saying ‘mama,’ to allow your childtime to respond.” My favorite lesson in the book was Cohen explaining that “the more you read this book aloud to your child, the more engaged your child will be.” What a great first Mother’s Day to have your child’s first word be mama!
•Reviewed by Ronda Einbinder

Additional Recommended Reads for Mother’s Day or Grandparents’ Day:

Written and illustrated by Tania de Regil
(Candlewick Press; $18.99, Ages 4-8)
★ Starred Review – Publishers Weekly
During her mother’s pregnancy, Julia is separated from her parents for the first time when she is brought by her grandma to spend the summer away in author/illustrator Tania de Regil’s picture book Something About
Grandma. Before reading the words on the opening pages, I was drawn into the mixed media artwork of purple and blue birds flying in the sky and the stunning landscape of Grandma’s little house in a town at the foot of the mountain in Mexico City.
Handwritten letters are dropped into the trees, clothing, flowers, and Julia’s bicycle representing

poems written by her great-grandfather and handwritten by her grandmother. De Regil’s creativity in showing us the importance of these poems was truly felt. Julia adores everything her grandma does from cooking meals with fresh herbs grown in the garden to somehow knowing when Julia sneaks out to pick daisies and limes. Grandma seemed to know everything.

Grandma sits quietly on the terrace under the night sky writing things in a notebook. Grandma
had many secrets. But the story changes when Julia receives a letter from Mom and Dad. She realizes she misses home. Grandma’s sweet brown striped cat sits on the couch looking over her shoulder knowing something is making Julia sad. Grandma, and the cat, cuddle with Julia to help make her feel better. Grandma makes her delicious hot chocolate and entertains her with tricks and games.
The reader turns the page to see Mom and Dad walk through the back door with a new bundle of joy in Mom’s arms—Julia has a new baby brother. Julia snuggles with her family as she turns the pages of the photo album Grandma had shared with her and it’s exactly what they needed. Julia looked at Grandma and smiled.
This is a moving story that depicts the love grandparents have for their grandchildren—and the adoring love the grandchild has for the grandparent. It teaches the reader that no matter how much they may miss their home that time spent with grandparents is a magical experience for all. This is a perfect new Mother’s Day read, and it is available in Spanish.  •Reviewed by Ronda Einbinder

Click here for another Mother’s Day Roundup.

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Picture Book Review – Lost Words: An Armenian Story of Survival and Hope

 

 

LOST WORDS:
An Armenian Story of Survival and Hope

Written by Leila Boukarim

Illustrated by Sona Avedikian

(Chronicle Kids; $18.99, Ages 5-8)

 

 

Lost Words cover Armenian families in picture frames on wall

 

 

On a seemingly ordinary day, a little boy helps Mama prepare mante dumplings. His life is suddenly and dreadfully interrupted when he receives a knock at the door. “‘You must leave with the others,’” his mother pleads while getting him and his sisters ready for the long journey ahead. She stuffs their pockets with dried fruit and nuts and sews gold coins into the lining of their coats just “in case.”

 

Lost Words int1 Armenian mother urging children to leave.
Interior spread from LOST WORDS: An Armenian Story of Survival and Hope written by Leila Boukarim and illustrated by Sona Avedikian, Chronicle Kids ©2024.

 

 

The little boy has “so much … to say” to Mama, but his words are “lost”—a repeated sentence expressing devastation and shock over his new reality. He and his siblings must leave their parents behind to escape persecution. Along with hundreds of thousands of other Armenians, he is forced to walk through the Syrian desert “for days. For weeks. For months”—phrases also repeated throughout the book illustrating his heartache and longing for wholeness. 

Like the sparse words of Boukarim’s refrains, simple and soft illustrations carry deep emotional weight. The gentle, almond-shaped eyes of Avedikian’s characters convey much grief and worry. Their facial expressions are often at the center of the pages.

 

Lost Words int2 our long journey began.
Interior spread from LOST WORDS: An Armenian Story of Survival and Hope written by Leila Boukarim and illustrated by Sona Avedikian, Chronicle Kids ©2024.

 

 

As the boy becomes a man and starts a family of his own, “love and laughter” begin to heal the “dark space[s]” of his heart, though the question of family history remains unanswered. That is, until, years later, his grandchild asks, “Where are we from …?” Suddenly and wonderfully, his words return to tell the story of loss, love, and resilience. The story of Armenia. 

 

Lost Words int3 in the heat and in the dust crossing desert.
Interior spread from LOST WORDS: An Armenian Story of Survival and Hope written by Leila Boukarim and illustrated by Sona Avedikian, Chronicle Kids ©2024.

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For teachers, librarians, parents, grandparents, and anyone interested in stories about survival and hope, Lost Words which is based on a true story, sensitively and beautifully illustrates the courage to speak one’s truth. An author and illustrator’s note, a brief history of the 1915 Genocide, facts about Armenia, and a glossary are included in the backmatter

Find out more at the Chronicle website here.
Find out more about the author, Leila, here.
Find out more about the illustrator, Sona, here.

  • Reviewed by Armineh Manookian
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Picture Book Review – Two New Years

 

TWO NEW YEARS

Written by Richard Ho

Illustrated by Lynn Scurfield

(Chronicle Books; $18.99, Ages 3-5)

 

 

Two_New_Years_cover_multicultural_Chinese_Jewish_family_celebrating

 

Reading Two New Years written by Richard Ho and illustrated by Lynn Scurfield, reminds me of how wonderful it is to find similarities in cultures while also celebrating the differences. Ho draws from his personal life to imbue this heartwarming Rosh Hashanah and Lunar New Year story with meaning while also making it accessible to anyone, whether or not they are Jewish or Chinese like the family we meet here.

 

Two New Years int1 family celebrating rosh hashanah and lunar new year.
Interior illustrations from Two New Years written by Richard Ho and illustrated by Lynn Scurfield, Chronicle Books ©2023.

 

The book begins simply and yet pulls readers in to find out more. “My family celebrates two New Years: Rosh Hashanah in the fall and Lunar New Year in the spring. We’re shown through art and prose how this works so beautifully in a multicultural family. Though Ho converted to Judaism, he still remains committed to his Chinese roots and traditions which readers are introduced to over the course of the 22-page story. Since I’m familiar with Rosh Hashanah, but less so with the Lunar New Year, I was curious to get the details. This is accomplished by dividing the book into two parts, the first being the lyrical, emotional heart of the story and the second being the factual part.

Kids should find it interesting that both Rosh Hashanah and the Lunar New Year, as well as other holidays, are lunar-based in the Jewish and the Chinese calendars respectively. However, it’s the Gregorian calendar we use in our daily lives and the one most children know best. That’s why  Rosh Hashanah and the Lunar New Year fall on different dates every year.

The holiday customs Ho writes about demonstrate how much they have in common. One similarity both New Years share is putting the past behind to welcome in the new. In Chinese culture “we sweep past troubles out the door.” In Jewish culture, we “cast old mistakes into the  depths.” You can see those actions thoughtfully illustrated in a rich fall palette in the artwork below. When our children were younger, we often went with our Jewish community on what’s called a tashlich walk to a nearby park to throw pieces of bread into a stream, representing mistakes we can toss away to start anew.

 

 

Two New Years int2 sweeping troubles out the door and casting old mistakes into stream.
Interior illustrations from Two New Years written by Richard Ho and illustrated by Lynn Scurfield, Chronicle Books ©2023.

 

Both new years are about spending time with family and remembering those no longer with us. Scrumptious food is served. “We prepare foods that symbolize togetherness and the heartfelt sharing of good wishes.” So much about a new year is about moving forward and the hope for a better tomorrow, one filled with “long life and prosperity, good deeds and a sweet year ahead.” Scurfield’s thrilling illustrations depict the blast of a shofar (a ram’s horn) in the synagogue while opposite “the clatter of fireworks,” makes a loud noise as a dragon dances by during a parade. Respect and love fill the pages of Two New Years and will hopefully fill readers’ hearts too.

Twelve pages of interesting backmatter comprise the second part of the picture book including a lovely two-page Author’s Note. Children will benefit from the Visual Glossary included. It goes into more depth about aspects of both Rosh Hashanah and the Lunar New Year briefly touched upon in the story. As I mentioned earlier, I know less about the Lunar New Year despite having read many picture books over the years. While I knew about lucky money and the importance of the color red on the holiday, I had never heard about the tray of togetherness, a tray “filled with candies, dried fruits, and nuts and served to visitors at Chinese homes, and how the tray is divided “into either six or eight sections” because the words for six and eight respectively sound like the words for luck and prosperity. Likewise, young readers may enjoy learning that for Rosh Hashanah the seeds of a pomegranate symbolize the “many merits or good deeds” of a person.

I am so happy this worthwhile book is out there and hope it lands on many bookshelves in homes, schools, and libraries to be enjoyed year after year.

  • Reviewed by Ronna Mandel
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Picture Book Review for Grandparents Day – Mama Shamsi At The Bazaar

 

MAMA SHAMSI AT THE BAZAAR

Written by Mojdeh Hassani and Samira Iravani 

Illustrated by Maya Fidawi

(Dial BYR; $18.99, Ages 4-8)

 

Mama Shamsi at the Bazaar cover Grandmother and grandaughter walking to bazaar

 

 

Written by mother-daughter duo Mojdeh Hassani and Samira Iravani and illustrated by Maya Fidawi, Mama Shamsi At The Bazaar shares the loving bond between grandmother and granddaughter as they venture out to share a new experience together.

 

Mama Shamsi at the Bazaar int1 ready to go to bazaar
Interior spread from Mama Shamsi at the Bazaar written by Mojdeh Hassani and Samira Iravani, and illustrated by Maya Fidawi, Dial Books for Young Readers ©2023.

 

Getting ready to go to the bazaar with her grandmother for the very first time, Samira is afraid she’ll get lost in the crowd. Again and again, she tries to coax Mama Shams into letting her hide under the protection of her veil. “‘Let’s get in line, under your chador, you in front, me behind!’” But each time, Mama Shams responds with a resounding “Na, na, na” followed by an exaggerated explanation of how silly they might look to passersby. “‘I’d look like a fool with four legs below me just like a mule!” 

 

Mama Shamsi at the bazaar int2 Samira and Mama Shamsi near bazaar
Interior spread from Mama Shamsi at the Bazaar written by Mojdeh Hassani and Samira Iravani, and illustrated by Maya Fidawi, Dial Books for Young Readers ©2023.

 

Textually, this lovely rhyming interchange between grandmother and granddaughter adds much humor and whimsy, while also providing a place for young readers of all backgrounds to stay grounded in the story as Mama Shamsi suggests the different types of animals she may be mistaken for if she acquiesces to Samira’s wish.

 

 

Mama Shamsi at the Bazaar int3 Mama Shamsi tells Samira to use her eyes and ears
Interior spread from Mama Shamsi at the Bazaar written by Mojdeh Hassani and Samira Iravani, and illustrated by Maya Fidawi, Dial Books for Young Readers ©2023.

 

Visually, their conversation introduces readers to the bustling capital of Iran, Tehran. Fidawi’s expressive illustrations are wonderfully and thoughtfully detailed from home to city life during the 1960s/’70s, reflecting the time period author Hassani grew up there. My personal favorites include the seated vendor on the street, prayer beads in hand, and chai brewing on a portable burner next to him, a grandmother on the balcony of a nearby apartment hanging clothes to dry, and another vendor selling my favorite Iranian street food: steamed beets. When they finally arrive at the bazaar, Samira feels assured that with Mama Shamsi by her side, she is safe to enjoy and explore her new world. 

For those seeking an intergenerational, diverse, sweet, and/or humorous story with a touch of social-emotional learning, this picture book ticks off all of the boxes. A recommended read for National Grandparents Day and year-round.

  • Reviewed by Armineh Manookian
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An Interview with Aixa Perez-Prado about City Feet

 

SUSI SCHAEFER INTERVIEWS AIXA PÉREZ-PRADO,

AUTHOR AND ILLUSTRATOR OF

 CITY FEET

(Reycraft Books; $17.95, Ages 3-5)

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City Feet cover map legs shoes walking on city sidewalk
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PUBLISHER SUMMARY:

This shoe lover’s paradise reveals that a city’s feet are as varied as the people and animals who live there.

INTERVIEW:

Susi Schaefer: Congrats on your picture book, CITY FEET. How did you get into creating books for young readers?

Aixa Pérez-Prado: Thank you very much! I feel like I have been a writer and illustrator since I was a little girl. I was born in Argentina and raised between there and the USA. I later lived in several other countries, including Costa Rica and Morocco. I believe that being multilingual, being a child immigrant, and having lived in many different places are all strong influences on the stories and the illustrations that I create today.

I am a former bilingual kindergarten teacher, a current university professor specializing in diversity education, and, most importantly, a mother of six. All of those experiences led me to read many children’s books over the years and create my own stories for my students and my children. A few years ago, I decided to try to publish some of those stories and started my education in writing picture books.

Part of my education included taking a number of kidlit writing courses, entering online contests, and joining SCBWI. In addition to writing, I started drawing again and creating a few dummies for my stories. CITY FEET is my debut picture book.

SS: Tell us what inspired this book.

APP: I am a city girl at heart, and I love to explore the cities of the world. A few years ago, when I decided I wanted to try to publish in kidlit, I started entering online writing contests, and an earlier version of CITY FEET was a story I wrote for one of those contests, the Early Childhood Book Challenge. The idea was to write a story of 250 words or less, use rhyme, and have the story take place in an urban setting. I came up with about six stories for the contest and was a finalist with a different story, but the beat and rhythm of CITY FEET stuck in my head.

Two years later, I pitched it in Latinx Pitch on Twitter, and Winsome Bingham of Reycraft Books liked my pitch and made an offer. I was not meant to illustrate the book, but when she found out I was also an illustrator (or want-to-be illustrator), she and my agent, Joyce Sweeney, encouraged me to make a dummy. I had a very clear idea of how I wanted the book to look, with all characters appearing only from the waist down, as seen from the point of view of a baby in a stroller. I made the dummy and soon after received the offer to be the illustrator. I was thrilled!

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City Feet int1 City Feet walking down the street
Interior spread from City Feet written and illustrated by Aixa Pérez-Prado, Reycraft Books ©2023.

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SS: Can you share your process?

APP: I started by revising the original story and adding an additional stanza to reach the appropriate amount of spreads for a picture book. I then started trying to create the first spread, but the vision in my head wasn’t really working on paper. I went to an illustrator friend, Cristina Keller, and explained what I wanted to do to her. She invited me to her studio, and after showing her some of my sketches, she helped me to map out the first spread. After that, I knew exactly what to do.

My illustration process for CITY FEET is mainly collage created by cutting up different kinds of textured papers that I create and others that I find. I also use fabrics, leaves, petals, and other materials – including banana peels – in my collages. Once I make the collages, I scan them and bring them into Photoshop in different layers to combine and rearrange. I also do some digital collage in Photoshop.

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City Feet int2 dancing feet prancing feet

Interior spread from City Feet written and illustrated by Aixa Pérez-Prado, Reycraft Books ©2023.

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SS: Are you working on any projects you can tell us about?

APP: Yes, I am the author and also the illustrator for a nonfiction picture book that will come out in the Fall of 2024, Mercedes Sosa: Voice of the People, published by Lee & Low. It is a very different kind of story than CITY FEET, with a different feel and somewhat different style. However, my illustration technique will continue to be the use of collage with a variety of materials as well as digital collage for the majority of the artwork.

BUY THE BOOK:

Support independent booksellers and purchase City Feet at the link below.
https://bookshop.org/p/books/city-feet/18947595?ean=9781478881841

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Author Aixa Pérez-Prado headshotAUTHOR-ILLUSTRATOR BIO:

Aixa Pérez-Prado, the author/illustrator of CITY FEET is a native of Argentina who immigrated to the US as a small child. In addition to writing and illustrating, Aixa is a translator, sensitivity reader, and university professor. Aixa has lived in several different countries and draws inspiration for her stories and illustrations from diverse locations. Her passion is writing and illustrating picture books aimed at giving diverse children a chance to see their multilayered identities represented with heart and humor. She writes in Spanish and English and enjoys mixing languages in her prose. Similarly, she loves illustrating by employing different techniques in a multimedia whimsical style.

Aixa’s upcoming picture books are OUR WORLD: ARGENTINA (Barefoot Books, 2023) and MERCEDES SOSA: THE VOICE OF THE PEOPLE (Lee & Low 2024). Aixa is represented by Joyce Sweeney from the Seymour Agency.

AUTHOR-ILLUSTRATOR LINKS:

Website: https://www.aixaperezprado.com

Twitter: @professoraixa

Insta: @aixasdoodlesandbooks

TikTok: @aixasdoodlesandbooks

Threads: @aixasdoodlesandbooks

Facebook: @aixasdoodlesandbooks

 

INTERVIEWER BIO:

Born and raised in the Austrian Alps, Susi Schaefer trained as a glass painter in the medieval town of Rattenberg. After moving to Southern California for sun and adventure, Susi studied graphic design. She’s the illustrator of ZOO ZEN by Kristen Fischer, author-Illustrator of CAT LADIES and THE GLOW SHOW. Susi lives in North Tustin, California, with her family. www.susischaefer.com

Twitter @susischaeferart and on Instagram @susischaeferart

 

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Picture Book Review – What’s Your Name?

WHAT’S YOUR NAME?

Written and illustrated by Bethanie Deeney Murguia

(Candlewick Press; $18.99; Ages 3-7)

 

 

What's Your Name cover kids greeting kids

 

★Starred Reviews – Kirkus, Publishers Weekly

When author-illustrator Bethanie Deeney Murguia discovered her parents almost chose another name for her it got her thinking about the importance of names and what they do, and the idea for What’s Your Name? was created.

 

What's Your Name int1 children greeting children
WHAT’S YOUR NAME? Text and illustrations copyright © 2022 by Bethanie Deeney Murguia. Reproduced by permission of the publisher, Candlewick Press, Somerville, MA.

 

This relatable and diverse picture book takes young readers on a reflective journey through the meaning behind their own names. The book opens with two pages of orange talking bubbles listing names from Alina to Xavier and Ana to Eli. There are short names, like Bo, and longer names like Zachariah. There’s even my son’s name, Adam. Turning the page, we find lush green spread of lawns and bushes, and grey stone bridges, with walking dogs sniffing hellos. Murguia’s illustrations not only include adults and children of various ethnicities but one child in a wheelchair and another on a skateboard. Greetings are expressed by kids with Hi, Hola, and Good Morning before announcing their given names because Everyone has one … or maybe a few.

 

What's Your Name int2 a name is a meeting
WHAT’S YOUR NAME? Text and illustrations copyright © 2022 by Bethanie Deeney Murguia. Reproduced by permission of the publisher, Candlewick Press, Somerville, MA.

 

Murguia writes in playful rhyme explaining to the reader the many ways names are used. When Lena greets Elijah they high-five as they pass. When the spotted brown dog goes farther than allowed, his fluffy-haired owner calls Buster stopping him in his tracks. A name can be common, familiar, and known. A name can be rare, unique, all your own. Cherimoya explains to new friends that her name is like the fruit but you can call me Cherry! And the worker at the burger stand gets a lot of responses when he calls out the common name Bob. Murguia explains to kids that names honor families when they are named after a loved one or historic people such as Malala and Frida.

The colorful art beautifully tells the story with greens, oranges, and greys visually showing the reader that autumn leaves are the reason behind a baby girl’s name. A boy shouts to a crowd, with his hands beside his lips, yelling Hey…you! with an illustration of confused people with mouths wide open wondering who he is calling. If only he knew the name of the person he was looking for he wouldn’t need to shout.

 

What's Your Name int3 names honor family
WHAT’S YOUR NAME? Text and illustrations copyright © 2022 by Bethanie Deeney Murguia. Reproduced by permission of the publisher, Candlewick Press, Somerville, MA.

 

Naming your child is a huge decision. Will your baby’s personality or character reflect the name you have chosen or vice versa? Will your child be clumsy yet her name is Grace? Do you choose the name Cole if your child’s eyes are pitch black? This book will spark conversations about how your child got their name and how their parents did as well. A discussion will be a beautiful introduction to family history, or how a name just felt right. This book made me laugh because my own name is spelled differently than what people expect, but I guess you would say that is what makes it unique. Because if it were different, would you still be you? The book’s last line reads what’s yours? and provides a great jumping-off point for a first-day-of-school read for teachers who are getting to know their new students.

  • Reviewed by Ronda Einbinder
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Picture Book Review for Jewish Heritage Month – Seven Good Years

SEVEN GOOD YEARS:
A YIDDISH FOLKTALE

Written by Shoham Smith

Illustrated by Eitan Eloa

Translated by Ilana Kurshan

(Kalaniot Books; $19.99, Ages 4-8)

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Seven Good Years cover Tuvia gold goat and family
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Based on a story from the early 1900s by I. L. Peretz, this thought-provoking Jewish folktale presents the story of Tuvia, a poor hard-working man, living in a ramshackle hut with his children and wife Sorka
when a magical older man offers him a fortune for seven years. How can he pass that
up?
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This terrific retelling of Seven Good Years A Yiddish Folktale, written by Shoham Smith, illustrated by Eitan Eloa and seamlessly translated by Ilana Kurshan, asks the question – If you were offered a life of wealth for seven years, no less and no more, would you start those years now, wait, or do something unexpected? This is the dilemma our main character must decide.
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Seven Good Years int1 Tuvia was poor
Interior spread from Seven Good Years: A Yiddish Folk Tale written by Shoham Smith, illustrated by Eitan Eloa, and translated by Ilana Kurshan, Kalaniot Books ©2023.
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Using mostly primary colors, Eloa’s loosely drawn images depict Tuvia dressed with a rope around his waist because he can’t afford a belt, carrying heavy loads in his job as a porter. He does what he can to put food on his family’s plates and educate his children. But when the marketplace empties out, and the merchants pack up their wares and close shop, Tuvia asks himself “What will I do now?” The simple yet expressive illustrations depict a small village in Poland with goats and horses where people live hand to mouth yet seem content with their lot in life.
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When an unusual older man arrives dressed in bright green, Tuvia’s goat nibbles on the man’s blue feathered hat. Meanwhile, Tuvia appears startled and wonders if the man needs help with something. Instead, he has an offer for Tuvia. “Seven good years in which you won’t need to work carrying heavy loads on your back. Seven years in which you’ll be able to buy everything in this market!”
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So how does Tuvia respond? (I’m glad you asked!). Tuvia is in shock, unsure how to respond. “What will happen at the end of the seven years?” Tuvia asks. “You’ll go back to being a porter!” he is told. Tuvia asks if he can go home and discuss it with his wife Sorka. “Go home and ask her. I’ll wait here.”
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Seven Good Years int2 magical man and Tuvia
Interior spread from Seven Good Years: A Yiddish Folk Tale written by Shoham Smith, illustrated by Eitan Eloa, and translated by Ilana Kurshan, Kalaniot Books ©2023.
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“So what do you say?” Tuvia asks Sorka. And what does Sorka reply? (I’m glad you asked!) Smith inserts the phrase ‘I’m glad you asked’ throughout adding fun repetition to this uplifting tale. Tuvia is concerned about what will happen when they get old and the seven years of gold runs out. Sorka is concerned about feeding the children and paying their teacher. “Go back to the man and tell him that your Sorka says—let the seven good years begin right now!”
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The magical man is shown with a large smile on his face telling Tuvia to go home to his wife and fortune. Arriving at home, Tuvia finds his joyous children behind his ramshackle hut, along with his delighted wife, their skinny goat and … a pile of gold!
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Seven Good Years int3 family rejoices with pile of gold
Interior spread from Seven Good Years: A Yiddish Folk Tale written by Shoham Smith, illustrated by Eitan Eloa, and translated by Ilana Kurshan, Kalaniot Books ©2023.
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Seven years go by and the benevolent old man returns. Tuvia brings him to his home to tell Sorka that the seven good years are over only for the older man to discover the family still lives in the ramshackle hut and are dressed in the same tattered clothes! The mysterious man feels sorry for the family but the family says no need to feel sorry. It’s clear they are very happy.
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It turns out the family only took the money they needed to educate their children and now
that the children are finished with school, Tuvia tells the older man to give the gold to a needy
family. And what happens after that? (I’m glad you asked!) The next morning Sorka and Tuvia
find a great big pile of gold in their yard! And so begins another seven years of good fortune.
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The interesting back matter tells about Peretz, a prolific author of stories, folktales, plays, and essays in both
Yiddish and Hebrew. It also explains how Seven Good Years reflects Peretz’s appreciation for the simple piety of Eastern European Jews. The book’s message, influenced by what ancient Jewish rabbis teach, beautifully conveys what having riches actually is. “Who is wealthy? One who is content with what they have.” (Pirkei Avot 4:1) This hopeful folktale has been around for over a hundred years and still resonates today. What a meaningful read for Jewish Heritage Month and for parents to teach children that happiness is not dependent on fortune.
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Follow the book’s link here to request an activity guide.
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• Reviewed by Ronda Einbinder
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An Interview by Maria Wen Adcock with Night Market Rescue Author Charlotte Cheng

AN INTERVIEW WITH CHARLOTTE CHENG

AUTHOR OF NIGHT MARKET RESCUE

ILLUSTRATED BY AMBER REN

(ROCKY POND BOOKS; $18.99, AGES 4-7)

 

Night Market Rescue cover night market dog GoGo lanterns family

 

 

INTRO:

Charlotte Cheng is the author of NIGHT MARKET RESCUE [Rocky Pond Books], illustrated by Amber Ren. Her picture book was released to the world on May 2, 2023. In this interview conducted by Maria Wen Adcock, author of IT’S CHINESE NEW YEAR, CURIOUS GEORGE and founder of the parenting blog BiculturalMama.com, Charlotte discusses her inspiration for the book, Taiwanese traditions, and more.

INTERVIEW:

Maria Wen Adcock: What inspired you to write Night Market Rescue?

Charlotte Cheng: My family comes from Taiwan, and although I was born in the US, we made trips back to Taipei as often as we could to visit family. Each time we visited, my parents brought me to famous Taiwanese night markets so I could soak in the tastes and joys of their childhood.  To this day, I can still recall the smells of sizzling sausage and the sights of colorful goods. I wanted to share these fond memories with others and chose to do so by writing Night Market Rescue!

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MWA: Why did you decide to use a stray dog as the main character? How did you come up with his name? 

CC: I was struggling to figure out how to write Night Market Rescue with an interesting perspective. A few years ago, we also learned that some street dogs rely on night markets to survive. I started exploring how a night market could be seen through the eyes of a street dog. In fact, during one of our family trips to Taiwan, I spent time taking photos of night markets from a dog’s perspective. I then chose to name the dog GoGo as the word “gou” is also the Chinese word for dog.

At the same time, we started helping rescue organizations and fostered a few dogs. Eventually, we decided to rescue one ourselves. His name is Waldo, and he is a proud and integral member of our family. In fact, GoGo might look a little like Waldo because we shared photos of him with Amber Ren, the talented illustrator for Night Market Rescue.

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Night Market Rescue int1 stray GoGo finds new place page 03
Interior art from Night Market Rescue by Charlotte Cheng with illustrations by Amber Ren, Rocky Pond Books ©2023.

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MWA: What Taiwanese traditions did you want to make sure you featured in the book?

CC: I focused a lot on sounds, tastes, and textures. I wanted people to feel like they’re with GoGo as he explores the night market. Some specifics I made sure to include were the scooters (one of Taipei’s preferred modes of transportation), sizzling sausage (a famous Taiwan treat), and haggling grandmas (a staple of any Asian market).

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MWA: Why did you think it was important to write a book highlighting Taiwanese culture? 

CC: Taiwan is a small island packed with a fascinating history. From Dutch castles to lantern festivals to marble canyons and mountains that rise above the clouds, my parents devoted a lot of time sharing their culture with me. I now have a young daughter and hope stories like Night Market Rescue will be an opportunity for me to do the same. Furthermore, Taiwan is a place that many people don’t have a chance to visit. I hope Night Market Rescue will be a way for them to learn about this special island.

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Night Market Rescue int2 Taipei market GoGo and lanterns Page 04
Interior spread from Night Market Rescue by Charlotte Cheng with illustrations by Amber Ren, Rocky Pond Books ©2023.

 

MWA: What was the process like working with the publishing team?

CC: I’m a collaborative creature at heart, so working with the publishing team was a dream come true! Lauri Hornik is the President of Rocky Pond Books, a new imprint at Penguin. The moment Lauri acquired Night Market Rescue, she immediately began working with me to refine the manuscript. The book is in rhyme, so revisions were a little tricky, but the story is so much stronger now!

I then got to see this story come alive through the talented hands of our illustrator, Amber Ren. It began with character designs and pencil sketches. Then she added vibrant colors that brought movement and energy to each page. Throughout each stage, the Rocky Pond team invited me to provide feedback and suggestions. Sometimes, I even sent specific photos of my dog Waldo to help highlight how Taiwanese street dogs behaved in different scenarios! It was a pleasure witnessing the images transforming into the final illustrations that are now found in the book.

There are many others at the Rocky Pond team that have contributed to making Night Market Rescue as well: from art direction and book design to marketing and publicity. I’ll be collaborating with Lauri and her team on four more books over the coming years. I’m greatly looking forward to working with them all again, and I’m so grateful to be a part of the Rocky Pond family!

 

MWA: What did you and your publishing team love the most about the illustrations? 

CC: Amber Ren is such a creative and detailed illustrator! She captured the sights and sounds of a Taiwanese night market with vibrant and colorful images that just jump from the page. There are so many details that I hope readers will catch. Someone is drinking boba in the background because the beverage was invented in Taiwan. Even my Ama makes an appearance as she briskly bargains with a vendor! Amber also hand-wrote each vendor sign in traditional Mandarin, and she even incorporated feedback from my parents on the exact phrasing of some of the vendor names. Most of all, Amber managed to illustrate the full spectrum of GoGo’s emotions – from curiosity to loneliness to joy. You root for GoGo because he’s so charming and eager when exploring the night market. I could not imagine working with a better illustrator than Amber, and I hope we can work together again!
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MWA: Do you have any books or projects coming up? If so, please describe them.

CC: I actually have several books coming out over the next few years! In 2024, Roar Choo, illustrated by Dan Santat, will be published by Rocky Pond Books. It’s a story of how a dragon recovers from a cold through the help of a phoenix friend. In the same year, A Name for Sister, illustrated by Sophie Diao, will be published by HarperCollins. It’s a magical new sister story inspired by a centuries-old naming tradition from China. In 2025, Rocky Pond Books will also publish two more of my stories: I Miss You Most (2025), illustrated by Xindi Yan, and Icy Fruit (2025), illustrated by Vivian Mineker. Both of these books are inspired by my two grandfathers. You can sign up for my newsletter or follow me on social media to stay updated about these books.

 

BUY THE BOOK:

Charlotte’s local indie store:

https://www.thereadingbug.com/book/9780593531723

IndieBound:

https://www.indiebound.org/book/9780593531723

 

SOCIAL MEDIA LINKS:

Twitter: https://twitter.com/charlottedraws

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/charlottemakesbooks

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/charlottechengdesigns

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Charlotte Cheng Photo Credit Airecel Brady
Charlotte Cheng Photo Credit: Airecel Iris Brady

ABOUT AUTHOR CHARLOTTE CHENG:

Charlotte has written and illustrated a variety of books, including Explore China: A Mulan Discovery Book and BoBo Loves Dumplings. With over 20 years of EdTech experience, Charlotte has also written and published K-12 curricula for a variety of companies, including CodeCombat, Disney, and Wonder Workshop.

You can learn more about Charlotte’s work at: www.charlotte.art. You can also find her social media sites above.

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ABOUT INTERVIEWER MARIA WEN ADCOCK:

Maria Wen Adcock is the author of It’s Chinese New Year, Curious George [January 2023], published by Clarion Books/Harper Collins. Maria is a first-generation Chinese-American writer and founder of the award-winning multicultural parenting blog www.BiculturalMama.com. She has appeared on The Dr. Oz Show, Bloomberg News, Newsday, and Huffington Post. Maria is a board member of Multicultural Kid Blogs, an organization supporting diverse parenting bloggers, and co-host of the annual event Multicultural Children’s Book Day.
Follow: Facebook |Twitter | Instagram | Pinterest

FIND OUT MORE ABOUT AMBER REN, THE ILLUSTRATOR:

https://www.amber-ren.com

https://twitter.com/AmberRenArt

https://www.instagram.com/ren.amber

http://amber-ren.tumblr.com

https://www.linkedin.com/in/amber-ren-1921a092

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