This is a well-researched book by a master storyteller. Kathy Lowinger paints a vivid picture of life in the times of Moses, Jesus, and Mohammed from a young-adult point of view. The dialogue and sensory details enhance the various settings and the characters are well drawn. The story of Moses and the Exodus is told from the point of view of Dina, 14, a slave in the House of Weavers in Egypt, circa 1320. Mattan, a shepherd in Judea, circa 33 CE, witnesses a Roman massacre at a synagogue in Nazareth and relates the development of Christianity. Fallah, a young poet in Arabia, 622 CE, describes the rise of Muhammed as a leader.
The notes in the back of the book add information to enhance the learning. Maps and several illustrations are included. While the author claims she didn’t set out to provide a comparative religion text, this book would be a welcome addition to the curriculum of schools. It might even foster dialogue and understanding among religious groups. This book is highly recommended for ages 10 and up.
Sandy Lanton, a former teacher, earned a BA in Psychology and an MS in Early Childhood Education from Queens College. She is the author of Daddy’s Chair (Sydney Taylor Award), The Happy Hackers, Lots Of Latkes, Still a Family: A Young Child’s Book About Divorce (Gittle Honorable Mention), and The Littlest Levine (named one of the best Jewish Children’s Books of 2014 by Tablet Magazine). Her work has appeared in magazines as well as several anthologies. When she isn’t writing stories or visiting schools, Ms. Lanton likes to crochet, line dance, play bridge and pickleball, spend time with her grandchildren, and read, read, read.
