Rebecca's Journey Home

August 28, 2006
On the eve of adopting a baby girl from Vietnam, a Jewish family reflects on their happy preparations for her arrival and their eagerness for her to become an addition to their family, as well as a blessed part of the Jewish people. In a realistic, childlike manner, brothers Jacob and Gabriel raise the points that their new sister will be Vietnamese, Jewish and American all at the same time, opening the door for further discussion. Debut author Sugarman skillfully weaves the Steins' observation of their religion into a contemporary tale that contains details about how an international adoption might work and the baby's conversion to Judaism. (She writes from personal experience; her daughter was adopted from Vietnam.) The joyous tone of how adoption helps a family grow in love and in faith gives this title its appeal. Shapiro's gently stylized watercolors, sometimes suggesting the work of Giselle Potter, bring warmth and heart to the proceedings. Ages 4-8.

November 1, 2006
K-Gr 4-Jacob and Gabe, ages eight and four, prepare for their mothers trip to Vietnam to bring home their new baby sister. The author is successful in explaining both the intricacies of adoption procedures as well as details of life in an observant Jewish home. A smattering of Vietnamese culture is also included. The appealing and bright watercolor illustrations show touches of whimsy and lightheartedness that add to the story. The true multicultural aspect of this book emerges as the baby is immersed into the Mikvah (ritual bath) and given her Hebrew name. She is Vietnamese, American, and Jewish, and, Mrs. Stein says, shell be many more things someday. Mr. Stein replies, You can be as many things as you want to be. Or at least you can try."Lisa Silverman, Sinai Temple Library, Los Angeles"

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