Book Review #98

Hershel and the Hanukkah Goblins  

Author: Eric Kimmel

Illustrator: Trina Schart Hyman

Publisher: Holiday House, 2022

ISBN: 978-0823411310

Reading Level: Ages 4-8

Main Character: Hershel of Ostropol

Plot: Hershel and the Hanukkah Goblins revolves around Hershel, a quick-witted and resourceful Jewish man, who arrives in a town plagued by mischievous goblins interrupting Hanukkah celebrations. The plot unfolds as Hershel faces nightly challenges set by the goblins and uses his intelligence to outsmart them, in the end restoring the celebration of Hanukkah.

Settings: The story is set in a small village during the Hanukkah season.

Genre/Theme/Style: Children's Fiction, Hanukkah, Jewish Folklore, Courage, Cleverness

I Gave This Book 4 Roars 🦁🦁🦁🦁

Why 4 Roars? I gave it four roars for its interesting storytelling and illustrations. It is both entertaining and suspenseful. Hershel's character is endearing, and the story effectively emphasizes the importance of perseverance in the face of challenges. It has become a Hanukkah holiday classic.

Critical Analysis: Hershel and the Hanukkah Goblins combine folklore with the festive spirit of Hanukkah. The author weaves a tale that captures the imagination of readers while providing cultural and historical significance. The illustrations complement the narrative, adding visual appeal.

Connections: This book provides an excellent opportunity for readers to explore Jewish traditions and folklore, fostering cultural understanding and appreciation. It also serves as a valuable resource for discussions about courage, clever problem-solving, and the importance of cultural celebrations.

 

Hanukkah Haiku

 Candles softly glow, 

Eight nights of hope and wonder,

 Hanukkah's embrace.

FS

Happy Thanksgiving!

Happy Thanksgiving!

Golden Fields

For golden fields and harvest's yield,

For blessings vast, our hearts are filled.

In every moment, large or small,

We find the grace to thank God for all.

 

So here we gather, in unity,

One voice of thanks, a symphony.

For blessings past and those to come,

A humble prayer, for everyone.

 

In gratitude, our hearts entwine,

For life's sweet gifts, both yours and mine.

On this Thanksgiving, let joy abound,

In every heart, let love be found.

F.S.

Happy Thanksgiving!

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Happy Thanksgiving!

Book Review #97

 

The Story of the Pilgrims

Author: Katharine Ross

Illustrator: Carolyn Croll

Publisher: Scholastic, Inc.,1995

ISBN: 0-590-44279-5

Reading Level: Recommended for ages 4-8

Main Character: The main characters in this book are the Pilgrims who embarked on the Mayflower voyage in search of religious freedom and the Wampanoag Native Americans who played a significant role in their survival.

Plot: The Story of the Pilgrims follows the historical journey of the Pilgrims from their persecution in England to their challenging voyage on the Mayflower and the establishment of the Plymouth Colony in America. The book also recounts the first Thanksgiving celebration and the cooperation between the Pilgrims and the Wampanoag.

Settings: The story is primarily set in 17th-century England, aboard the Mayflower during its voyage to America, and in Plymouth, Massachusetts, where the Pilgrims established their colony.

Genre/Theme/Style: Children's Non-Fiction, Children’s Historical Non-Fiction, Thanksgiving Holiday.

I Gave This Book 5 Roars! 🦁🦁🦁🦁🦁

Why 5 Roars? I gave this book 5 Roars because it provides young readers with an informative and engaging introduction to the history of the Pilgrims and the origins of Thanksgiving. The combination of historical facts and colorful illustrations makes it an excellent resource for teaching children about the early interactions between European settlers and Native Americans. It also conveys important values of courage, resilience, cooperation, and gratitude. 

This is an older book that does not use the word Native Americans. However, it would be a great idea to talk to kids about how cultural awareness can bring us closer together.  

Critical Analysis: "The Story of the Pilgrims" effectively captures the attention of young readers and helps them understand the historical context of Thanksgiving. The illustrations by Carolyn Croll complement the narrative beautifully, making history come alive. The book strikes a balance between education and entertainment, making it a valuable addition to children's literature. It is an engaging story with detailed illustrations.

Connections: This book can be a valuable resource for educators and parents who want to teach children about American history and the Thanksgiving holiday. It can be used in the classroom or at home to discuss the importance of understanding different cultures and the role of cooperation and gratitude in the early history of the United States.

National Beach Day!

Celebrating Beaches

National Beach Day- August 30th

Photo Credit:FS

Relax and unwind with 

these great finds:

Happy Beach Day!

 

Book Review #96

 I Love BOBA! 

(The first children's book about 

bubble tea)

Author: Katrina Liu
Illustrator: Dhidit Prayoga's
Publisher:‎ Katrina Liu,2021
ASIN: ‎B094X3K3N5
Reading Level: 4 to 8 years

Genre/Theme/Style: Children's Picture Book, Cultures, Tea, & Tea Parties.

Appeal: I Love BOBA! is a delightful and original addition to children's literature, introducing the magical world of bubble tea through the eyes of young readers.

I Gave This Book 4 Roars! 🦁🦁🦁🦁

Why 4 Roars? I would have appreciated a deeper exploration of the historical and cultural significance behind Boba tea. 

Critical Analysis: It offers a fun reading experience that inspires curiosity and appreciation for diverse cultures. Great for Storytimes or shared among boba-loving families, this book is a delightful treat that leaves a sweet taste of adventure and discovery. Perfect choice for tea lovers of all ages.

An excellent book for young readers, especially if you're hosting a boba tea party!

Connections: Boba Tea Parties

Book Review #95

 You're Finally Here!

Author: Melanie Watt

Publisher:‎ Little, Brown Books for Young Readers, 2023

ISBN:978-0316468022

Reading Level: 4-8 years

Genre/Theme/Style: Children's Picture Book, Bunnies, Humor, Patience, Respect, and Manners.

Main Character: A quirky bunny character.

Plot: You're Finally Here! features a bunny character eagerly awaiting the reader's arrival. The bunny's excitement quickly leads to impatience and boredom as it recounts the lengthy wait. Through relatable and humorous scenarios, the bunny's emotions fluctuate from enthusiasm to annoyance, creating an engaging narrative.

I Gave This Book 4 Roars! 🦁🦁🦁🦁

Why 4 Roars? I found that the bunny's behavior leaned a bit too much on the side of annoyance for my personal taste. While I appreciate the book's attempt to capture the frustrations of waiting, the bunny's reactions occasionally overshadowed the positive aspects of the story for me.

Critical Analysis: The bunny's emotional movement, from eager anticipation to playful annoyance and back, adds interest to the narrative. The book's exploration of waiting and impatience, combined with unexpected twists, keeps young readers engaged. While the plot structure feels repetitive at times for adult readers, young readers will identify with the idea of having to wait. 

This would be an excellent book opportunity to introduce students to the concept of manners within a classroom setting.

Connections: Educators can design creative activities, such as role-playing scenarios related to waiting, sharing, and expressing emotions, encouraging students to apply what they've learned from the bunny's experiences. They can easily tie in the themes of patience and respect explored in the book.