A Turkish Rosh Hashanah: A Delightful Tale of Sephardic Tradition and Family Bonds
Step into the enchanting world of the 19th- century Ottoman Empire with A Turkish Rosh Hashanah, a new children's book by acclaimed author Etan Basseri. Nestled within the bustling streets of Istanbul, this captivating narrative follows the journey of a grandmother and her grandchildren as they prepare for the Rosh Hashanah seder, immersing readers in the unique Sephardic traditions of the era.
Set against the backdrop of the historical Balat Jewish neighborhood, A Turkish Rosh Hashanah transports readers to a time when Ladino phrases filled the air and family bonds were cherished above all else. As the family embarks on a quest for the finest ingredients, readers are treated to a vivid tapestry of sights, sounds, and smells that bring the bustling marketplace to life.
"This story provides a window into a slice of Jewish history that no other children’s books have provided," says Etan. "With our illustrator Zeynep Özatalay’s meticulous attention to detail, A Turkish Rosh Hashanah depicts kids overcoming real-life challenges (with a little help from some four-legged friends) while celebrating the richness of my family’s Sephardic traditions."
What sets A Turkish Rosh Hashanah apart is its commitment to authenticity. From the carefully researched historical settings to the inclusion of Ladino phrases, every aspect of the book has been thoughtfully crafted to provide readers with an immersive and educational experience.
School Library Journal calls A Turkish Rosh Hashanah “a solid addition to any collection to show the diversity of Jewish cultures,” offering young readers a glimpse into a world of Sephardic Jewry that is both captivating and educational. Whether enjoyed as a bedtime story or used as a tool for classroom learning, this book promises to inspire curiosity and spark meaningful conversations about culture and tradition.
An Association of Jewish Libraries Fall 2024 Holiday Highlights title and Amazon.com #1 new release in Jewish children’s books, A Turkish Rosh Hashanah is now available online (Amazon and Barnes & Noble) and in many local bookstores. For more information, visit kalaniotbooks.com.
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