Synopsis
It’s almost Rosh Hashanah — the Jewish New Year — and Mike and Maya are just trying to survive apple slicing, honey smears, and a very suspicious kazoo.
But when a swirl of cinnamon-scented sparkles fills their living room, they’re whisked away to a magical city where shofars echo through the sky, round challahs glow in golden windows, and beginnings are waiting around every corner.
Guided by the ever-dramatic (and slightly glittery) Rabbi Matzah, they journey through the City of Beginnings — planting fig trees for the future, writing their names in the Book of the Year, tossing regrets into a river during Tashlich, and discovering why the Jewish New Year starts in the month of Tishrei instead of January.
Along the way, they learn that Rosh Hashanah isn’t just about apples and honey.
It’s about reflection.
It’s about growth.
It’s about starting again — on purpose.
Filled with expressive illustrations, warm humor, and meaningful tradition, The Rosh Hashanah Book gently introduces children to:
• The meaning of Rosh Hashanah
• The shofar and its powerful sound
• Tashlich and letting go
• The Jewish lunar calendar
• Holiday foods and customs
• The idea of teshuvah — beginning again
Perfect for families, classrooms, synagogues, and anyone looking to celebrate the Jewish New Year with heart and imagination, this story blends education with magic in a way that feels joyful, accessible, and deeply human.
And yes — there is a kazoo moment no one saw coming.
Part of the Rabbi Matzah series: Mike and Maya’s Excellent Adventure
Collect all the holiday books and follow the sound of celebration all year long.
Suitable for ages 6–10.
A sweet, meaningful, and slightly mischievous story about new years, new chances, and the joy of beginning again.
About the Author
Suzanne Pell builds children's books with intention, experience, and heart. With more than 40 years in print and graphic design - beginning with the opening of her first print shop in 1981 - she understands books from the inside out. As an author, illustrator, designer, and full-service publisher, she guides both her own projects and first-time authors from concept to completion, combining expressive storytelling with bold, page-popping design that helps books stand out in a crowded marketplace. The result is work that is not only beautiful, but strategically built, professionally produced, and made to last. You can reach her at sue@booksbysue.com.
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