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32 pp.
| Kar-Ben
| May, 2022
|
TradeISBN 978-1-7284-2430-9$17.99
|
PaperISBN 978-1-7284-2797-3$7.99
(2)
K-3
Illustrated by
Martina Peluso.
Rena "Rusty" Glickman Kanokogi (1935–2009) grew up in a cramped and noisy Coney Island apartment where "not even Shabbat brought quiet." Brash and strong, she was considered "unladylike" and a judo class was the first place she felt she fit in. As her skills developed, however, she faced barriers as a woman: e.g., she won a YMCA championship while disguised as a man but had her medal rescinded when an official saw through the ruse. The straightforward text focuses on her obsession with the sport (she practiced on subway platforms and took down "unsuspecting trash cans") and on her persistence and advocacy, including being the first woman to study at Japan's Kodokan and helping to establish women's judo as an Olympic event. Illustration layouts vary, with many of the more dynamic ones being vignettes of Glickman practicing judo moves. An author's note gives a bit more background, especially about Glickman's later life. A welcome addition to the growing canon of picture-book biographies amplifying lesser-known women, with added sports appeal.
(2)
K-3
Illustrated by
Martina Peluso.
A series of eye-pleasing, digitally rendered double-page spreads depicts twelve different holiday traditions around the world (e.g., Martes de Challa in Bolivia; Crop Over in Barbados) related to giving thanks. The text is rhyming couplets, with useful explanatory sidebars and pronunciations that make potentially unfamiliar vocabulary approachable. Thorough back matter further describes the cultures, histories, beliefs, and food. Also appended are a calendar of when these holidays are celebrated, questions to encourage contemplation of how food is sourced, and author and illustrator notes.
Reviewer:
| Horn Book Magazine Issue:
November, 2022
(3)
K-3
Illustrated by
Martina Peluso.
Og (the biblical character) is one tired, grouchy giant: he can't find a bed big enough to accommodate him. When Noah seeks his help bringing the animals to the ark, Og obliges, and God rewards him with a proper-size bed. The story has a straight-ahead, classic feel, and the steady-handed, painterly art has a warmth that undercuts Og's crabby disposition.
(3)
K-3
Illustrated by
Martina Peluso.
Joseph is a generous, humble man who always helps his neighbors and shares his Sabbath meal. In contrast, his neighbor Judah is selfish and closed-off. This Jewish folktale's lessons about the benefits of sharing and the detriment of greed are evident without resorting to preachiness. Warm, rich-hued illustrations flow elegantly from page to page.