The Four Questions (Picture Puffins)

Explores the meaning of Passover by explicating the symbolism of the Seder and the four questions

Kindergarten-Grade 6-- Why is this book different from all other books? It is an elegant, accessible retelling of the Four Questions asked at a Passover Seder. Sherman's glorious jewel-toned paintings are patterned and richly detailed, with a curious menagerie of animals, wearing yarmulkes and some clothing, acting out the symbols of the holiday. Each of the Four Questions is asked in English; turn the book upside down, and the question appears in Hebrew calligraphy. The facing picture is split, with images facing each direction as well. This technique enables the book to be used during the Seder: those on each side of the table can see what is going on. The story itself is exciting and timely, telling of the slavery of the Jews, the ten plagues, the exodus from Egypt, and the hope for freedom throughout the world. The book explains the history and the symbolism of the holiday and the items on a Seder plate. The final spread shows the order of the Seder. The pictures are exquisite, the telling lyrical. This is the most eye-catching, most refreshing book available for young children on this holiday. Older children can get more information from Miriam Chaikin's Ask Another Question: the Story and Meaning of Passover (Clarion, 1986), but The Four Questions will find a wider appreciative audience. --David Gale, "School Library Journal"
Copyright 1989 Reed Business Information, Inc.