The Book of Elsie - (Orca Currents) by Joanne Levy (Paperback)

About the Book

In this high-interest accessible novel for middle-grade readers, Elsie comes up with a plan to save her local synagogue.

Book Synopsis

Elsie Rose-Miller loves celebrating the Purim holiday and can't wait for the annual costume party at her local synagogue.

Elsie plans to dress up as the fierce and smart Queen Esther, who saved all the Jewish people. But when financial hardship and a terrible incident of hate-inspired vandalism threaten not only the party but the synagogue too, Elsie, like Queen Esther, takes action to bring her entire community--Jewish and non-Jewish alike--together.

This short novel is a high-interest, low-reading level book for middle-grade readers who are building reading skills, want a quick read or say they don't like to read! The epub edition of this title is fully accessible.

Review Quotes

"Both Jew-ish and non-Jew-ish read-ers will be inspired by Elsie's brav-ery while learn-ing about Jew-ish hol-i-days and com-mu-ni-ty sup-port. This book would make a per-fect gift for a young Jew-ish [reader]."-- "Jew-ish Book Coun-cil (JBC)"

"Covers many social issues that young people need to read about...a good discussion for the reader and an adult."-- "Children's Literature Comprehensive Database (CLCD)"

"Allows readers to find the space to ask questions and have conversations about racism and antisemitism in society. Recommended."-- "CM: Canadian Review of Materials"

"Strong first-person narration thoughtfully explores experiences of antisemitism and prejudice...Levy presents a realistic, gutsy, problemsolving youth navigating difficult situations with the love and support of community, friends, and family."-- "Booklist"

About the Author

Joanne Levy is the author of a number of books for young people, including Double Trouble and Fish Out of Water in the Orca Currents line and the middle-grade novels Sorry for Your Loss, The Sun Will Come Out and Small Medium At Large, which was nominated for the Red Maple Award. Joanne lives in Clinton, Ontario.