The Secret of the Sabbath Fish

Thursday, December 17, 2009

The Secret of the Sabbath Fish

Author: Ben Aronin

First line: Tante Mashe lived in the little village of Barisev almost two hundred years ago.

Why you should read this book: Simple text and illustrations tell the story of a poor, childless widow who, despite her own poverty, devotes herself to helping the less fortunate. When a mysterious fish seller offers her a beautiful fish and advises her to consider the plight of the Jewish people as she prepares Sabbath food for the needy, she falls into a strange trance, her symbolic journey translating into a meal that no one has ever seen or smelled before, a feast to uplift the spirits of the entire village. A fairy tale in the mystic Jewish tradition, this book presents hope and despair in terms understandable to children, while celebrating the glorious tradition of gefilte fish.

Why you shouldn’t read this book: Eliahu HaNavi, dressed as a simple peddler, has just visited your humble home, and you're busy reaping the rewards.

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Dragon's Library

Thursday, December 17, 2009