Editorial Review

“Based on an old folktale with both Jewish and Arabic roots, this version of the story focuses on Yaffa and Fatima, two neighbors who are Jewish and Muslim, respectively. The first half of the book sets up their friendship and lays out the different customs of each woman. Then hard times come. Separately, the friends each come up with an identical plan to help the other one out. The text is simple but lovely, as are the muted but expressive illustrations—both of which suit the story perfectly. Its message of mutual respect and of the power of friendship to transcend differences is especially welcome right now.”—Jewish Book Council