Memories of Babi

I was sent a couple of books to review for an upcoming issue of SIGNAL. This is a series of nine stories, a sort of loose narrative, about Piri growing up spending time with her grandmother, her Babi. Through Babi, Piri learns about her culture and especially about her faith. Babi's actions speak volumes as Piri sees how essential it is to care for one another, especially in the tough times. Babi is an energetic woman who tends her farm by herself, who believes it is important to teach Piri about being Jewish, and about family. The book will appeal to younger readers and that is actually a bonus in these days when there seem to be few books for intermediate kids. Social studies teachers might want to share one or two stories as they study either Ukrainian or Jewish (or both) culture(s). The stories are short and range from humorous to poignant to simply tales from a childhood.

And, if you have a minute and a dollar or two to spare, head on over to Laurie Halse Anderson's blog (http://halseanderson.livejournal.com/) and donate for her run for the Leukemia Society.