A Sweet Passover

PreS-Gr 4—Miriam loves matzah and eats it throughout the Jewish holiday of Passover, when leavened bread is forbidden. But by the eighth and final day, she is truly sick of it. It takes Grandpa's delicious matzah brei ("Passover French toast") and some gentle reminders about the symbolism of the food to reignite her enthusiasm. While familiarity with Passover (and matzah) is necessary to appreciate this story, Newman packs in a lot of information about history and customs that can build on that basic knowledge. These tidbits, along with a smattering of Yiddish vocabulary, are well integrated into the charming story, which retains a lighthearted flavor. The acrylic and charcoal cartoon illustrations are contemporary, friendly, and cozy. Expressive characters and humorous details abound: the dog, Bubbeleh, matches Miriam's posture when, arms crossed over her chest, she refuses to eat any more matzah. Of all the matzah-centric Passover stories out there (and there are many), this one is unique in its focus on the actual experience of eating matzah all week, and the reasons for doing so. It is a must for Judaica collections and will have wide appeal in communities where Passover is celebrated. A recipe is included.—Heidi Estrin, Feldman Children's Library at Congregation B'nai Israel, Boca Raton, FL