Editorial Review

“The latest entry in the Nature in Israel series (Sukkot Treasure Hunt, 2009) explains the origins of Tisha B’Av, a Jewish fast day that commemorates the destruction of the First and Second Temples in Jerusalem. A young boy narrates as he and other family members visit the Western Wall, tour the remains of the ancient temples, participate in a Temple Mount archaeological dig, and learn something of the history relevant to this holiday. Alpern’s crisp color photos expand upon the brief text, helping readers to better understand this day of reflection. The text is informative and positive throughout, despite the serious undercurrents of this day. An afterword details Tisha B’Av traditions (fasting, not wearing leather, not swimming, and sitting on low stools or the floor) and notes other tragic events—the Crusades and the Holocaust, for example—that modern Jews contemplate on this day. Overall an upbeat explanation of a solemn day, this fills a missing niche and will be welcomed in religious collections.”—Booklist