THE LITTLEST LEVINE

For little Hannah, being the youngest in the family is a vexing issue—until it is time for the Passover Seder, and one special honor is given only to her.

Hannah continually laments that she is too small to reach the sink, join brother and sister on the school bus, and even light Hanukkah candles by herself. Grandpa tells her to be patient, as soon her holiday will come. Together, they spend many evenings after dinner in the study, learning something special that will be revealed to the whole family at the upcoming Seder. On the first night of Passover, Hannah takes much pride in reciting the traditional four questions as required by the youngest family member, finally delighted to be the littlest Levine. Generic watercolor drawings in pale spring hues place this intergenerational, observant family in a middle-class, suburban setting. The well-developed storyline provides enough intrigue to engage the littlest listeners and culminates pleasingly.

This should be inspirational to little tykes who are expected to carry on with the tradition and need to understand their larger role in the Seder ceremony.