Jesses Star

November 1, 2000
Gr 2-4-Jesse thinks it's dumb that his teacher wants him to find out when and why his relatives immigrated to Canada and, true to form, he has waited until the last minute to work on his assignment. His mother tells him that his ancestors were poor Jews escaping the pogroms in Russia at the end of the 19th century and she suggests that he look in the attic for his great-great-grandfather Yossi's traveling case. Inside the case, Jesse is disappointed to find only a faded photograph and a tarnished Star of David on a chain. When he fastens it around his neck, however, he is suddenly transported back in time to the Jewish village of Braslav as his relative. Like Jesse, Yossi is something of a troublemaker, but when Russian soldiers desecrate the village celebration of Sukkot by burning the holy prayer books, he decides he must help his family and neighbors escape. He succeeds by playing on the soldiers' own superstitions to outwit them, allowing his family to get away, and bringing Jesse back to the present with a new appreciation for his ancestors. Well written, fast paced, and a manageable length, this time-travel book is just right for those looking for an easy read with a Jewish theme. An author's note provides a brief introduction to the history of Jews in Russia. Black-and-white pencil sketches are particularly effective at capturing the dramatic plight of the villagers.-Teri Markson, Stephen S. Wise Temple Elementary School, Los Angeles

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