FICTION

Hare and Tortoise Race Across Israel

by Laura GEHL
illus. by Sarah Goodreau. 32p. (Israel: Bk. 1). Kar-Ben. Mar. 2015. Tr $17.95. ISBN 9781467721998; pap. $7.95. ISBN 9781467738194; ebk. $6.99. ISBN 9781467762021. LC 2014003669.
COPY ISBN
PreS-Gr 2—The age-old fable is retold with a modern Israeli setting. The tortoise and the hare race from Tel Aviv to the Dead Sea, allowing readers to glimpse at locations along the way, from the city of Jerusalem to an oasis in the desert. Instead of providing a "whirlwind tour" like so many picture books about Israel, the locales are well integrated into the story line, and the characters' actions flesh out their personalities. Cleanly stylish, slightly retro digital illustrations show an Israel populated by diverse people and animals. Hebrew signage adds local flavor. The final spread offers a stylized map showing the race route and reminding readers of the things the tortoise and hare encountered along the way.
VERDICT A wonderfully unique approach to showcasing Israel for young children.
Reviewed by Heidi Estrin, Congregation B'nai Israel, Boca Raton, FL
In this retelling of the classic Aesop's fable, the animals' contest runs throughout Israel, from Tel Aviv to the Dead Sea as their finish line. Along the way, Hare frolics in olive groves, buys dried apricots, and enjoys a falafel. The occasional Hebrew word appears both in the text and Goodreau's stylish illustrations. A map shows the animals' course through the country.
, Mar 01, 2015

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