Preble, Joy. Happy Passover, Edie Rose. Valeria Cis, Illus. Kar-Ben, 01/2025. 32pp. Picture Book. Trade $18.99. 979-8-7656-2994-9. GRADES Kindergarten–2. HIGH ADDITIONAL.
Every year, Edie Rose in Apt 701 prepares a Passover for everyone in the building. When people ask what to bring, Edie says “just you.” Her young neighbor Mia loves the four questions and calling out the plagues, searching for Afikomen, and learning the story of leaving Egypt for freedom. “If anyone can find her way through the desert to freedom, it is Edie Rose, who walks her dog… for miles by the lake” and has travelled on every continent “even Antarctica.” Edie encourages Mia to seek adventures as well. When Edie has a fall right before Passover, Mia realizes that she can rally the building to make the seder happen. The book includes bright, full- page illustrations by Argentinian artist Valeria Cis. The artwork is notable for showing the age lines on Edie’s face. Edie and Mia are light-skinned; other neighbors in the building are drawn with a variety of skin tones.
Rachael Reiley—Independent