Challah for Shabbat Tonight

PreS-Gr 2–The aroma and warmth of fresh baked challah permeates each page of this charming picture book as a grandmother and her granddaughter work together to prepare for a Shabbat supper. Starting with a simple mixture of yeast, sugar, and water, the challah dough starts to take shape as eggs, flour, honey, and oil are added. Summoned by a series of tightly rhymed couplets and alliterative phrases, readers follow the pair of bakers as they knead and stretch, rest and split, twist and bake. As family and friends gather for Shabbat in a room filled with laughter and love, a freshly baked challah loaf is enjoyed by all. Ackerman uses a gentle, rhythmic flow to guide readers through each meticulous step of the bread-making process. The lilting text is matched by a snug, inviting kitchen scene rendered in warm hues of yellow, brown, and washed-out green. Detailed insets illustrate various stages; these visual aids not only support the text but also provide an engaging way for children to follow along. The oversized text and a combination of phrases and short sentences enhances accessibility for children.