November 1, 2013
PreS-Gr 1-Sammy Spider and his mother observe Josh playing ball indoors, making a mess, and repenting and apologizing, in the spirit of Yom Kippur, for his misbehavior. They even get their own apology from him for breaking their web, and they are pleased to forgive the boy. This entry in the series on Jewish holidays cuts right to the chase; no generic preschool concepts are mixed into the story this time. The focus is fully on the meaning of Yom Kippur, making this title both more concise and more powerful. The ideas of making poor choices and making amends are shown in a developmentally appropriate way, and the depiction of the custom of formally asking forgiveness is emotionally satisfying. Cheerful, cut-paper collage illustrations are set against plenty of white space. A solid addition to the series.-Heidi Estrin, Congregation B'nai Israel, Boca Raton, FL
Copyright 2013 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.
January 1, 2014
When Josh comes home blowing a shofar, Sammy the spider's mother teaches him about Yom Kippur. Then, Josh bounces a ball in the house, breaking a dish and Sammy's family's web; both Josh's parents and the spiders accept his heartfelt apology. The story is saccharine but effectively conveys the point of the holiday. Collage illustrations crudely depict Josh's remorse.
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