This board book for tots and preschoolers has appealing color photographs that present the holiday of Passover as accessible, warm, and sweetly family-oriented. It is a perfect mood-setter and preparation for the youngest of family members who, before encountering the hubbub of the holiday, need some familiarity with its images and terms.
Each photograph is accompanied by a short, beautifully expressed thought about the holiday, simply stated and easily understood. The pictures and text feature family members as well as stories, food, singing, games, and other concepts appropriate to the holiday’s events and likely to resonate with a young child, rather than the more complicated aspects of the holiday such as its history and rituals. A note at the end of the book, though, does explain more about Passover and its background and observances for the benefit of the adult reader, who can share as much information with the child as seems appropriate.
Recommended for ages 1 to 4.
Michal Hoschander Malen is the editor of Jewish Book Council’s young adult and children’s book reviews. A former librarian, she has lectured on topics relating to literacy, run book clubs, and loves to read aloud to her grandchildren.
