The Book of Elsie

  • Pages:160
  • Publisher:Orca Book Publishers
  • Series: Orca Currents
  • Themes:racism, hate crimes, community, antisemitism, prejudice
  •  
  • Available:08/16/2022
  • Reading Level:2.8
  • Lexile:HL530L
  • ATOS:3.7
  • Fountas & Pinnell Text Level Gradient:V
Paperback
9781459834248
$10.95
EPUB
9781459834262 LICENSE OPTIONS
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Elsie Rose-Miller loves celebrating the Purim holiday and can't wait for the annual costume party at her local synagogue.

Elsie plans to dress up as the fierce and smart Queen Esther, who saved all the Jewish people. But when financial hardship and a terrible incident of hate-inspired vandalism threaten not only the party but the synagogue too, Elsie, like Queen Esther, takes action to bring her entire community—Jewish and non-Jewish alike—together.

“Strong first-person narration thoughtfully explores experiences of antisemitism and prejudice…Levy presents a realistic, gutsy, problemsolving youth navigating difficult situations with the love and support of community, friends, and family.”
– Booklist
“Both Jew­ish and non-Jew­ish read­ers will be inspired by Elsie’s brav­ery while learn­ing about Jew­ish hol­i­days and com­mu­ni­ty sup­port. This book would make a per­fect gift for a young Jew­ish [reader].”
– Jewish Book Council
“Allows readers to find the space to ask questions and have conversations about racism and antisemitism in society. Recommended.”
– CM: Canadian Review of Materials
“Covers many social issues that young people need to read about...a good discussion for the reader and an adult.”
– Children's Literature
CCBC Best Books for Kids and Teens   | 2023  |  Commended