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(4)
K-3
Illustrated by
Julie Fortenberry.
Despite wintry weather, Sadie searches for a way to plant a tree on Tu B'Shevat, the "birthday of the trees." The problem is a relatable one for many Jewish readers not in warm-climate Israel (where the holiday was created), but the solutions from family members come a bit too easily. Sometimes-blurry illustrations effectively vary colors to distinguish between the present and Grandma's memories.
(3)
K-3
Illustrated by
Natascia Ugliano.
This story follows a family through years of Tu B'Shevat (Jewish New Year for trees) celebrations. Netta, her special plant, and her family get bigger, outgrow their spaces, then adapt to new homes. The intensely detailed drawings clearly depict Netta's relationships and her evolving life. With the plant as a consistent reference point, the narrative addresses many potentially challenging life changes with a straightforward, reassuring approach. Glos.
40 pp.
| Whitman
| March, 2014
|
TradeISBN 978-0-8075-7215-3$13.99
(3)
1-3
Illustrated by
William Owl.
In their second early chapter book, neighbor best friends Sam (boy) and Charlie (girl), along with Charlie's little sister (also named Sam), go through a year together, celebrating changing seasons, new friendships, and several Jewish holidays. The characters' quirky and offbeat personalities shine in their interactions and also through Owl's sunny, colorful illustrations. Subtle lessons about the holidays are apparent but not overpowering.
24 pp.
| Whitman
| September, 2012
|
TradeISBN 978-0-8075-3151-8$15.99
(3)
K-3
Illustrated by
Jana Christy.
On Tu B'Shevat (a Jewish holiday similar to Arbor Day), the tree in Joni's yard "didn't look like it even knew it was having a birthday." So Joni and her neighbor throw the tree a party, which includes party hats and a soil cupcake. The green-saturated, fuzzy-edged pictures reflect the gentle text's environmentally friendly message. A note about the holiday is appended.
24 pp.
| Hachai
| January, 2010
|
TradeISBN 978-1-929628-48-3$10.95
(4)
K-3
Illustrated by
Phyllis Saroff.
In honor of Tu B'Shvat, the "New Year for Trees," a young boy wishes his favorite crabapple a year of sun, rain, birds, blossoms, and the strength to endure storms: "May you stand, firm and straight, for years to come." The realistic illustrations are better at depicting nature than people. An explanation of the holiday closes the book. Glos.