Hoppy Passover!

PreS-Gr 2—In this companion to Hoppy Hanukkah! (Albert Whitman, 2009), bouncy young bunnies Violet and Simon are celebrating Passover with their parents and grandparents. They help prepare the food and the table and participate gleefully in the Seder. Family members each choose what they love best about the holiday, wrapping up with Grandma's declaration that Violet and Simon are her favorite part of it. The adults introduce the traditional foods and customs with simple explanations appropriate for the target audience. Common experiences, such as chasing down strong horseradish with sweet charoset or watching the prophet Elijah's cup to see if any wine disappears, ring true. While a lack of solid information prevents the book from acting as an introduction for the uninitiated, it works as a pleasing affirmation for those familiar with the holiday. The hopping of the enthusiastic young bunnies ("Around here it's Hoppy Passover!") adds humor to an already lighthearted story. The gently colored illustrations are as cuddly as the bunnies themselves. Rounded figures, smiling faces, and a cozy household create a warm and loving atmosphere. The male bunnies even put on yarmulkes when the Seder begins. A solid purchase where Passover is commonly celebrated.—Heidi Estrin, Feldman Children's Library at Congregation B'nai Israel, Boca Raton, FL