On Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur (Aladdin Picture Books)
On Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippurdescribes the tradition and  philosophy behind these Jewish holidays. Cathy Goldberg Fishman writes from a  child's perspective, which frees the text from being preachy or didactic, and  lends a warm feel to this quiet, lovely book. At no point does the young  protagonist imply that her experience of the holidays is the best way to do  things; she simply gives readers an unbiased, gentle narrative.Children rarely share the adult preoccupation with calendars, and  accordingly, the young girl recognizes the holiday season in terms of tangible  cues--she notices an influx in mail, sees the leaves begin to change colors, and  "feel[s] the air change from warm and stuffy to cool and crisp." The holiday  foods are round and sweet, the shofar sounds like someone sobbing, and a day of  fasting means books instead of snacks. When her grandmother says that Rosh  Hashanah is "the day when God created the world," the girl and her brother make  a quick, youthful interpretation--it's time to say happy birthday to the  world.Melanie Hall's illustrations are enchanting; rich watercolors are at times  painted over fabrics such as burlap and lace, at others piled on top of each  other in a collage. The figures in the pictures appear peaceful and airy--so  light it seems they may float off the pages at any moment. These evocative  paintings, along with a helpful glossary and pronunciation guide, combine to  charm children of all faiths.(Ages 5 and older)--This text refers to an out of print or unavailable edition of this title.