Matzah Ball Chase

This very silly rhyming story follows the adventures of a runaway matzah ball. Savta (Grandma) puts soup in her grandson's bowl, and the lively matzah ball jumps out, dashes out the door, and begins a wild escapade, traveling throughout Israel visiting towns, historical sites, museums, and events.

The colorful illustrations reflect the excitement and discovery of the animated journey of the matzah ball while providing the readers with a fun journey throughout Israel from mountains to deserts to seas. The characters, although unnamed except for Savta, are lively and quite expressive.

A glossary of Yiddish and Hebrew words used throughout the story is found at the end of the story along with a list of sites visited by the matzah ball including a short identification and the location of each one. Similar to the adventures of "The Gingerbread Man," young children will enjoy a wild ride through Israel while visiting various sites including the Western Wall, Masada, and the Dead Sea, as well as some unusual venues and neighborhoods. This book encourages travel, exploration, and learning about one's heritage.

Recommended for synagogue and day school libraries, and for public and public school libraries that collect diverse children's books. -Rachel Glasser, Association of Jewish Libraries