School Library Journal Review
K-Gr 5-This picture book retells the biblical story of the 10 plagues and the Exodus from Egypt from the point of view of a Jewish slave child. Rhyming first-person couplets offer a you-are-there emotional vibe to readers already familiar with the basics of the story. Darkly atmospheric, folk-style acrylic paintings add gravitas and drama. An author's note explains the inspiration for the retelling, and a short glossary defines potentially unfamiliar words. The subtitle, "A Passover Story," and the Seder memories in the author's note, show that the book comes from a Jewish perspective; however, others interested in the Exodus will also find the book useful. While it does not provide enough context or detail to act as an introduction to the story of the Exodus, the emotional angle makes it a great supplement to other more straightforward tellings.-Heidi Estrin, Feldman Children's Library at Congregation B'nai Israel, Boca Raton, FL (c) Copyright 2013. Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.
Publisher's Weekly Review
Evocative and beautiful, this rhyming rendition of a young Jewish slave girl's experience during the ten plagues and exodus from Egypt flawlessly evokes the spirit of that Old Testament story. As one of thousands of children forced into harsh labor by the pharaoh, this unnamed girl shares her bleak outlook on life, until suddenly and inexplicably, strange epidemics begin afflicting the Egyptians while miraculously leaving the Jews unscathed. "Itching, biting, awful fleas/ Brought our masters to their knees./ Strange to see them scratch and fuss,/ Hurt and helpless just like us." The poignant yet hopeful rhymes join with striking watercolor illustrations to produce a narrative that will captivate both children and adults. Ages 4-8. Author's agent: Tina Wexler, ICM. (Feb.) (c) Copyright PWxyz, LLC. All rights reserved.