MY FIRST PASSOVER

A tot observes Passover.

The family prepares for dinner, greets their guests, and begins the seder service with blessings. Along the way, the young narrator discusses the various customs—and offers earnestly enthusiastic asides. Everyone takes a sip of wine (“I get to drink grape juice”). Soon it’s time for the reading of the Four Questions (“I get to read [them]…because I am the youngest. This is my first year doing it!”). Next, the youngster tells the story of how the Jews escaped slavery in Egypt, the family eats their festive meal (“gefilte fish, roasted chicken, matzah ball soup, potato kugel, and noodle pudding. YUM!”), and the children hunt for the afikoman, the hidden piece of matzah. At last, the seder finishes with a wish for freedom and a “Happy Passover!” Katz’s illustrations rely on bright colors and eye-catching patterns; the characters sport such wide grins that readers can’t help smiling along. The text is clear and easy to follow, each tradition explained simply but effectively at an age-appropriate level, though the addition of backmatter would have been helpful. More complex topics—the seder plate, the 10 plagues—are well illustrated with examples, and the book follows the distinct steps of a seder; however, a few are combined or skipped. The young protagonist is pale-skinned; other characters vary in skin tone.

An inviting, child-friendly introduction to a key Jewish holiday.