MY LITTLE BOOK OF BIG JEWISH HOLIDAYS

Journey through a year of major Jewish holidays, as well as a few lesser-known ones.

Beginning with an explanation of the Jewish calendar, Shafiroff explores Shabbat, Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur, Sukkot, Simchat Torah, Hanukkah, Tu Bi’Shvat, Purim, Pesach (Passover), and Shavuot. She considers various foods such as challah, latkes, hamantaschen, and charoset, as well as individual observances and customs within larger holidays, such as the ritual of Havdalah, which concludes Shabbat, and the ceremony of Tashlich, observed on Rosh Hashanah. Each section includes a detailed description explaining the importance of the holiday, why it’s celebrated, and common customs; Shafiroff combines stories from the Torah along with discussions of modern practices, such as playing dreidel on Hanukkah. The author doesn’t acknowledge that customs differ widely, and no sources are included, though word pronunciations and definitions do appear in the text. Still, the informative, accessible, and conversational text will kindle excitement for the holidays, while the bright, cheery illustrations invite readers in. Shafiroff depicts a diverse cast; characters vary in terms of skin tone, and Jews of color are included, as are a variety of head coverings.

Those new to Jewish holiday practices will find much of interest.