Prolific children's author and adapter folklore reteller Eric A. Kimmel joins forces with artist Erika Weihs in this slim collection of Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur stories. The three include:

The Samovar, in which a couple are given a black and tarnished samovar by the Prophet Elijah, and become its keepers for seven years. Their kindness and generosity, during that time, transform it into a gleaming object of beauty.

The Shepherd, in which a simple man who prays to God from his heart is humbled by a passing scholar, who informs him that he is praying in the wrong way. It takes a visit from an angel, and a trip to listen to the Heavenly Host, to convince the shepherd that his own simple prayers are cherished by God.

Rabbi Eleazar and the Beggar, in which a famous rabbi speaks hurtful words to a beggar, and refuses to leave his side until he is given forgiveness.

As Kimmel notes in his sub-titles, the three stories here are meant to illustrate the three essential concepts - repentance, prayer and charity - of Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur. They are taken from various sources, and are well-known tales in the Jewish folk tradition. I found these stories engaging, and often poignant. The accompanying oil paintings from Erika Weihs, whose work I have encountered before in Barbara Diamond Goldin's Cakes and Miracles: A Purim Tale, were appealing, in a simple, folk-art style. Recommended to anyone seeking children's books for Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur. ( )

This book is a great read for someone trying to learn more about Jewish Holidays. The text includes italicized sections prepare the reader for the chapter and explain the story. Next is the retelling of a Jewish story in regular print that gives information about the importance of Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur. The main idea of the text is to provide stories from the Jewish Religion in a way that is receptive to children. ( )

Absolutely lovely adaptations of classic stories, with introduction re' the holidays, and author's note re' the traditions of the tales. Kimmel never ceases to impress me with his insights into all sorts of folklore - I believe he could even do convincing & moving Christmas stories! The illustrations here are fine, but, to my eyes, nothing special. ( )

Stories for RH/YK about prayer, charity, repentance