Review Detail

“Day of Delight: A Jewish Sabbath in Ethiopia” by Maxine Rose Schur, illustrated by Brian Pinkney, shares the simple, yet sweet story of a family preparing for the day of rest by finishing lingering work, cleaning, preparing food, and bathing. The family is content with what they need to do, knowing that they are preparing for something special within their tradition.

The illustrations paint a vivid, beautiful picture of the life the characters lead, as they gather their needs, tend to their work, spend time together during their day of rest, and go to the mequrab (synagogue) to pray. The notes in the back of the book from the author and a rabbi share more about the Ethiopian Jewish experience, as well as a glossary that covers words that many may not know if unfamiliar with Jewish life in Ethiopia.

It is heartwarming to read a story that focuses on not only a Jewish experience, but one that is not always showcased. The world is in need of learning about different cultures, different people, and different traditions that stem from the same general concept of being Jewish. Any piece of writing that can shed additional light on the beauty of Jewish tradition should be highly valued.