Book Description
In a faraway village, can anyone make the royal prince smile?
Zlatah Leah is a capable girl, talented in many things. One day, she joins her village’s effort to make the prince smile again and takes her challah-baking expertise to the royal palace. She is sure that she has just what it takes to turn things around, but after nothing seems to work, she wonders if anyone at all can succeed. Can she?
The Challah Girl is a beautifully illustrated Jewish folktale about the power of prayer and tears that the whole family can enjoy.
Tova C Levine –
This storybook is a must have for young and old as its story is classic regarding the the essence of a young girl’s realization hopes and dreams connected to strong roots in tradition and spirituality.
Mark Levenson –
Beautiful book. Great story. Wonderful addition to any child’s library.
Janet Waller –
Lovely, original story with a beautiful message. It is well-written, intriguing and delightful to read.
Sarah S. –
This book sends a powerful message to children to approach every challenge with joyful confidence and that even if one fails, try and try again. The author’s sensitivity to the mindset of children makes this book the perfect addition every child’s library.
Sarah S. –
I just love this story! It’s whimsical and fairy-tale-like and yet conveys a most important and practical lesson for every child that the key to success is to forge ahead with joy and confidence and never give up!
Chantal Firstman –
I purchased the Challah Girl book since I loved the design on the cover and the old fashion hard cover book.
I had in mind to read the book to my grand children who are dispersed in the U.S.A and Israel. It has been a Mary Poppins’s
moment when I take it by surprise from my pocket book to read it to them at different times. They sit around enjoying the
story and insisting every time to see the pictures on every page.
— The Jewish Voice, “Arts and Culture” Book Reviews –
“The Challah Girl, a charming new illustrated Jewish story for children and young adults, is a traditional fairy tale that carries much contemporary meaning.
Writer and poet Bracha K. Sharp’s first book…is set “a very, very long time ago” in an unnamed Jewish town that is at once a medieval village and Eastern European shtetl, located in between mountains and ruled by a Jewish king. The only character who is named in the village is Zlatah Leah, a young woman who happens to bake the best challah throughout the region […] It is here that the author skillfully uses the ostensibly simple fairy tale structure to address topics such as sadness, reliance upon one’s strengths (noting that an excess of pride is different than inner belief in one’s capabilities), the utility of prayer, the healing power of gratitude and being concerned for the welfare of others rather than merely for yourself. Sharp, however, weaves these spiritual ideas seamlessly into her story so they are not presented in a didactic or overstated manner. They flow naturally out of the fanciful and engaging tale.
Illustrator Anita Tung’s unpretentious and detailed draftsmanship complements the tone of the narrative. Through Tung’s thoughtful and colorful mixed media paintings, the reader is able to inhabit both Zlatah Leah’s tight-knit Jewish community as well as the royal palace, and is brought closer to experiencing Zlatah Leah’s emotions through the nuanced attention to her expressions.”
Rosalyn Lukacs –
This book is a sweet tale that showcases Zlata Leah, a kind and giving girl who is loved by her family. The illustrations are delightful and capture the essence of the story. Good character traits are a big part of the story. I bought the book for my granddaughter, and one for a present. Both were well received! A book that is sure to be requested again and again.
Rob Lebo –
The Challah Girl employs the traditional fairy-tale format in order to tell an original and meaningful story. Although the story is set in a quaint Jewish town in a time long-past, its theme and moral will resonate with young readers of all backgrounds. The illustrations are lovely and compliment the direct, clear and engaging prose. Highly recommended.
Sultana F. –
I read the story to my grand children ranging from ages 2 to 8 years old.
They were very attentive to the story and loved the illustrations. They were curious in following the details of the
plot.
I recommend this book to all parents and children.
sima selkin –
This is the most inspiring story for the young generation.
The author is very gifted, and should continue bringing a joy and the education to the families of different backgrounds.
Brilliant!
Sara –
This delightful book has a remarkable old-world charm combined with some timely updates–truly a unique creation. My children were enchanted. Bracha is a talented writer. The pictures add so much as well. Highly recommended!