An Invitation to Passover - Hardcover

Olitzky, Rabbi Kerry; Bodin Cohen, Rabbi Deborah

Hardcover

ISBN 13: 9798986396507

Publisher: Kalaniot Books, 2023

Synopsis

An inclusive Passover story that reflects real-world diversity and interfaith friendships.

When Hannah's extended family isn't able to join her for their traditional Passover seder, she invites her diverse group of friends to experience the holiday with her. From Ha-joon's Korean kimchi, to Monique's hymn lyrics, each friend brings a bit of their own culture to the celebration. And with each guest the themes of freedom, hope, and thanks become more meaningful. A note tells the Passover story and a glossary defines vocabulary.

An Invitation to Passover is an Association of Jewish Libraries Holiday Highlights Book and received positive reviews from School Library Journal and Kirkus Reviews. A free downloadable activity guide that highlights the themes in this book is available on the Kalaniot Books website.

About this title

About the Author

Rabbi Kerry Olitzky was named one of the 50 leading rabbis in North America by Newsweek and is well-known for his inspiring books that bring the Jewish wisdom and tradition into everyday life. He has written over 75 books and hundreds of articles in a variety of fields. The Littlest Candle, A Hanukkah Story, written with his son, Rabbi Jesse Olitzky, was published by Kalaniot Books in 2020. In 2021, Kalaniot Books published The Candy Man Mystery. Rabbi Deborah Bodin Cohen has written nine books for children and teens. She is rabbi at Beth Chai: the Jewish Humanist Congregation of Greater Washington and owner of the Story House, a bookstore for children and teens. She and her husband, David, a journalist, are joyfully raising three children—Arianna, Jesse and Ezra.

Mariia Kolker was born and raised in Moscow. She graduated from Moscow State University of Printing Arts and has been creating books as both an illustrator and an author ever since. Whenever she can, she visits her grandmother in Israel.

Reviews

K-Gr 3-Each year Hannah's family comes to her house for a Passover seder. However, this year Hannah and her parents are very disappointed that their family is unable to attend. Hannah decides to invite her friends, so she won't have a "teeny tiny seder." She tells her friends that Passover is about remembering history, springtime, freedom, and great food. Although Hannah's friends have never celebrated Passover, they relate to these themes, and each bring something from their own cultures that connects to the celebration. Back matter provides an explanation of Passover and the meaning behind the foods that are shared at a traditional seder. The story adeptly incorporates details about the holiday, as well as interesting cultural connections from Hannah's friends. Written by two rabbis, the story is effective and very sweet; however, the muted colors and simple illustrations may not appeal to every reader. VERDICT Great for informational purposes, and a fantastic class read as Passover approaches.-Peggy Henderson Murphyα(c) Copyright 2011. Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.

Edition details

• Publisher: Kalaniot Books
• Publication date: 2023
• Language: English
• ISBN 13: 9798986396507
• Binding: Hardcover
• Illustrator: Kolker Mariia
• Number of pages: 32