By
– February 13, 2012
An easy-to-read book whose text is added to by lovely maps and color illustrations, many of them full-page, Passover Around the World introduces us to customs of Passover observance in countries such as Turkey, Ethiopia, India, Iran, Morocco, Gibraltar, the United States, and Israel. The background and history of the observances — including details about the Seder — make this both a perfect introduction to the holiday and enrichment for those who are already familiar with our observance in the United States. Vignettes personalize the observance in a special way, such as a description by the author of the actions of three Iranian men whom her father took home for Seder one year. Each section has information about Jewish life in that particular country in a brown area surrounded by a border, which is both helpful and interesting. Following the text, the author has added a Passover potpourri of various customs, recipes, and a glossary. This 48- page book could be called a picture book, but is clearly aimed at readers older than those to whom picture books are usually presented. Recommended for readers from ages 9 – 12, this can also be a read-to for younger children, particularly since the author has included lovely fictionalized stories about each country.
Reading Guide
Shelly Feit has an M.L.S. and a Sixth-year Specialist’s Certificate in information science. She is the library director and media specialist at the Moriah School in Englewood, NJ.