FICTION

Mazal Bueno!

by Sarah Aroeste (text) & illus. by Taia Morley

Kar-Ben. Apr. 2023. 12p. Board $8.99. ISBN 9781728445588.

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PreS-K–“When you grinned your first grin, as we tickled your chin, we laughed.” This glimpse of Ladino, the language of the Sephardic Jewish community, is boiled down to the single phrase of praise when baby takes the first steps or stands alone. In simple but arresting domestic scenes of a very sweet, spare household, Aroeste showcases a dark-haired, dark-eyed mama and her beaming baby, and Papa is not far away.

VERDICT So joyful and welcoming, there will be shouts of “Mazal bueno!” in every preschool.

Reviewed by Kimberly Olson Fakih , Mar 01, 2023

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