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The Purim Surprise

  • Interest Level: Preschool - Grade 3
  • Reading Level: Grade 2

It seems Naomi’s mother has forgotten her birthday, but delivering Purim treats to the neighbors brings Naomi a special surprise.

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978-1-5124-9614-7
 $19.99
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Interest Level Preschool - Grade 3
Reading Level Grade 2
Genre Picture Books
Publisher Lerner Publishing Group
Imprint Kar-Ben Publishing ®
Language English
Publication Date 2014-01-01
Text Type Fiction
BISACS JUV017090, JUV033020
Dewey [E]
Graphics Full-color illustrations
Features Reviewed

Author: Lesley Simpson

Lesley Simpson is a Canadian journalist and picture book writer. Her previous books include The Shabbat Box and The Purim Surprise. Lesley has taught journalism and creative writing at Canadian universities. She lives in Toronto, Canada.

Illustrator: Peter Church

Reviews

Cleveland Jewish News

“The sweet illustrations will appeal to young children, and Naomi’s whining will amuse parents. This charming book is a good addition to any Jewish children’s book collection”

School Library Journal

“When Naomi Levin moves to a new town three days before her seventh birthday and the Jewish holiday of Purim, she struggles with the discomfort of being a stranger in a strange place. Her mother suggests that they break the ice with their new neighbors by giving them traditional Purim treats. For two days they ignore the moving boxes and set to baking hamantaschen, buying candy, packing up the goodies, and delivering them to every Jewish family in town. What Naomi doesn’t know is that an invitation to celebrate her birthday is included with the sweets, resulting in a wonderful Purim surprise party complete with costumes, gifts, and lots of new friends. Though somewhat stilted, the cheerful illustrations successfully convey the loving relationship between parent and child. More than a simple holiday tale, this is a satisfying story about the value of giving.”
—School Library Journal

Wisconsin Jewish Chronicle

“This book—a celebration of tradition, community and welcoming the unexpected—is further refreshing because of its exclusive focus on mother and daughter, allowing access to children with both traditional and non-traditional families.”