SOMETHING SWEET: A SITTING SHIVA STORY
by Lesléa Newman
Charlesbridge (March 24, 2026)
Ages: 5-8
ISBN: 1623545714
Lizzie is determined to cheer up her friend who is mourning the loss of his grandfather. But when Lizzie and her mother arrive at his house for a shiva call, Joshua isn’t in the mood for their usual puzzles or magic tricks. He misses his grandfather. As Lizzie participates in the Jewish customs of mourning for the first time, she begins to understand a new side of friendship. Maybe all Joshua needs right now is someone to listen. Something Sweet balances themes of processing grief, experiencing another culture, and learning how to be a good friend—and does so with tender care.
“Newman handles the complexity of loss with care and authenticity in an age-appropriate way. Rich’s muted, expressive watercolors are well suited to the gently solemn tone of the story. A sensitive introduction to grief and Jewish mourning rituals.” —Kirkus Reviews
HAVDALAH SKY
by Chris Barash
PJ Library (January 1, 2021)
Ages: Baby-2 years
ISBN: 1734345063
When the first three stars appear in the sky on Saturday evening, it’s time for Havdalah. In HAVDALAH SKY, a child says goodbye to Shabbat and welcomes the beginning of a new week with her family as they perform blessings over lights, wine, and spices. This board book is written by Chris Barash, Chair of the PJ Library Book Selection Committee and author of over 10 books for children.
DADDY, ME, AND THE MAGIC HOUR
by Laura Krauss Melmed
Sky Pony Press (May 1, 2018)
Ages: 3-6
ISBN: 1510707913
After getting home for the day and having dinner, a young boy is ready for some special time outside with his father.
It's the Magic Hour, when the sun is going down and day meets night. As father and son walk to the playground for some lively fun, they see their neighbors going through their evening rituals—watering plants, walking dogs, going for a run. As darkness sets in, Daddy and son quiet down and find fireflies, then make their way home to Mommy and bedtime. This lyrical story, by New York Times bestselling author, Laura Krauss Melmed, celebrates the special time shared between father and son, and the joy of getting out to explore the world.
“The magic hour reveals the magical bond between a father and son.”
—Kirkus Starred Review
HYPNOSIS HARRY
by Catherine Bailey
Sky Pony Press (March 1, 2016)
Ages: 3-6
ISBN: 1634501713
No pajamas at the park. No toys in the toaster. Harry’s parents say no to everything! That is, until Harry learns about hypnosis. With a little practice, and Grandpa’s watch, Harry puts his parents in a trance and envisions a future full of fun and yes’s!
Comic books by the crate, night-vision goggles for his teddy bear, a pet monkey (or two) no request is too big or too bizarre. Harry loves his new freedom and, not to mention, all that bacon. So what if his robot goes rogue and playmates are hard to find? But when his ninja moves result in a playground pile-up, Harry starts to wonder if he really wants his every wish granted. Here's to Catherine Bailey's hilarious story of how Harry learns the real meaning of the word of the word no.