BOOKS

Holiday for Ari Ant

illus. by Katherine Janus Kahn. 24p. Apple & Honey. Apr. 2016. pap. $9.95. ISBN 9781681155074.
COPY ISBN
PreS-Gr 1-Rouss's popular "Sammy Spider" series has now been joined by Ari Ant, another friendly insect who takes an interest in Jewish holidays. This first entry in the series is about the somewhat obscure holiday Lag B'Omer. As the back matter explains, the origins of the holiday are unclear. This vagueness is reflected in the story line, which gives some very cursory history and tenuous explanations for the Lag B'Omer practices of picnicking and storytelling. However, the target audience of preschoolers will be satisfied and will enjoy Ari's mild adventures as he tags along with the human children. The depiction of children learning through play is realistic. The bright and busy artwork appropriately reflect the cheerful holiday customs.
VERDICT Books about Lag B'Omer are rare, and Jewish early childhood educators will be pleased to have this title available to fill that gap.-Heidi Rabinowitz, Congregation B'nai Israel, Boca Raton, FL

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