The Passover Mouse

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In this charming and witty Passover story about kindness, community, tradition, and forgiveness, a little mouse disrupts a town’s preparations for the holiday when it steals a piece of leavened bread–or chometz–just as all the houses have been swept clean in time for the holiday, spoiling everyone’s hard work. But just when it seems as if the townsfolk will never be ready for their Seder, the little mouse’s actions unwittingly bring everyone together, to work as a group to save the holiday. Jewish families at Passover will embrace this rollicking, funny, and ultimately inspiring story–based on an original tale from the Talmud. It’s sure to become a modern holiday classic that's shared year after year among the generations. Publication by Doubleday Books for Young Readers on January 28, 2020. STARRED REVIEW: Kirkus says, “A book that fits moving scenes, puzzles, and mice into the same story is an excellent addition to the Jewish tradition.” The Passover Mouse can be pre-ordered at Random House Children’s Books. For more information, go to the Passover Mouse page.

Friends & Anemones: Ocean Poems for Children

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Set sail on an epic ocean voyage with 70 well-loved and emerging New England authors and illustrators, including Peter Reynolds, Jane Yolen, Kip Wilson, Josh Funk, Lynda Mullaly Hunt, Matt Forrest Esenwine, and Joy Nelkin Wieder. Explore our watery world, from the intertidal zone to the mysteries of the deep. A whimsical and fascinating collection of original poetry and art, this anthology is a feast for both eyes and ears, and a valuable ecological and poetry resource for parents, librarians, and teachers. Published by The Writer’s Loft Press. REVIEWS: Amazon customer says, “This fun anthology is beautiful and educational. The illustrations are amazing, and the poetry offers something for everyone. The end explains different types of poetry so kids (and adults) can write their own. The book also supports the Rozalia Project for a clean ocean.” To purchase this book, click on the following link: Friends & Anemones: Ocean Poems for Children

An Assortment of Animals: A Children’s Poetry Anthology

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An illustrated collection of original poems about animals from New England authors and artists, An Assortment of Animals: A Children’s Poetry Anthology captivates the imaginations of young readers. Undiscovered poets' and illustrators' work sits side by side with never-before-seen work of accomplished authors and artists like Jane Yolen, Brian Lies, and Josh Funk. The anthology takes the reader on a journey from funny to poignant and wistful to thrilling. The animals range from anteater to vulture, the poetry from limerick to free verse, and the art from dreamy watercolor to humorous digital drawing. Published by The Writer’s Loft Press. REVIEWS: Amazon customer says, “This is a lovely collection of work from a group of talented writers and illustrators - but mostly, it's just fun! Great to read aloud with kids, who will certainly find their own favorites - pangolins, albatross, flamingoes - poems and pictures both!” To purchase this book, click on the following link: An Assortment of Animals: A Children's Poetry Anthology

The Secret Tunnel

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An exciting adventure story set in biblical Jerusalem for ages 7 to 9, The Secret Tunnel is written and illustrated by Joy Nelkin Wieder. Yonatan and his father must dig a tunnel under Jerusalem to bring water into the city before they are surrounded by the enemy! Will they finish in time? Known as Hezekiah's Tunnel, this ancient waterway still exists today and continues to bring clear spring water into Jerusalem. Published by Hachai Publishing. REVIEWS: Judaism: A short, chapter book with bright, clear letters, well placed illustrations and lots of excitement. This historical adventure has humor, and all the positive midos and mitzvos that discriminating parents and teachers look for in excellent Jewish children's books. (119 Pages ) To purchase this book, click on the following link: The Secret Tunnel

The Great Potato Plan

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Based on true events from the author's own family history, The Great Potato Plan describes the joys, fears, trials and triumphs of a young boy in World War I Poland. Simcha, the oldest boy, knows that Papa expects him to keep the family safe until they can join their father in America. And so begins this adventure...life is hard, food is scarce, and the Russian soldiers are cunning and dangerous. Published by Hachai Publishing. REVIEWS: Jewish Book World: This first chapter book illustrated by the author, makes for exciting reading. Jewish State: This is a sweet story based on the author's grandfather. Don't pass this up. Buy it for your children, your grandchildren or anyone else. To purchase this book, click on the following link: The Great Potato Plan

LEAD21

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Wright Group LEAD21 reading and language arts program is a groundbreaking and comprehensive literacy platform for grades K-5 from McGraw-Hill. Joy Nelkin Wieder contributed 27 leveled readers in both Fiction and Nonfiction with titles such as Grandmother's Gift, The Very Careful Rabbit and Is It Alive? Wright Group LEAD21 focuses on differentiation and acceleration. Nonfiction and Fiction selections are written at four different levels to provide all levels of students the opportunity to read, write and discuss the same grade level topics. Rigor, inquiry, access to complex text, and close reading strategies are integrated and aligned to the Common Core State Standards. Reviews: The Indiana Department of Education: LEAD21 is fully approved as a core reading program in grades K-5. The program consistently meets or exceeds expectations at all grade levels. For more information about these innovative materials for the 21st Century classroom, visit the IDOE website.

Let’s Talk About the Sabbath

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Let's Talk About the Sabbath is a delightful book by renowned Jewish children's author, Dorothy Kripke, which guides young readers through all aspects of Shabbat from welcoming the Sabbath Queen to celebrating Havdallah. Joy Nelkin Wieder's watercolor illustrations relate the special joy and light of Shabbat. With Kripke's graceful text and Wieder's rich, original artwork, Let's Talk about the Sabbath is a truly valuable addition to any family's collection. Published by Alef Design Group an imprint of Torah Aura Productions REVIEWS: Children's Literature: The illustrations are charming. A gentle introduction to a very important subject. Non-Jews who are interested will find it fascinating. To purchase this book, click on the following link: Let's Talk About the Sabbath