The Mysterious Guests: A Sukkot Story
Written by: Eric A. Kimmel
Illustrated by: Katya Krenina
Elementary Grades
"During the Jewish festival of Sukkot, in ancient times, families traditionally built a sukkah (a booth) in the fields where they harvested crops. The legend is that Abraham, Issac, and Jacob visit each sukkah disguised as guests and bestow a blessing when welcomed, or a lesson when spurned. This tale follows two brothers in ancient Israel: wealthy Eben, who is selfish and unwelcoming to his poor guests, and Ezra, a poor but generous man whose sukkah always has room and plenty of food for all. They are each visited by the three other wordly guests disguised as poor travelers, who then dole out appropriate punishments and blessings. The story is purposeful but elegantly told, and is matched well by Krenina’s decorative acrylics that look like details from an ancient tapestry. Deeply hued swatches of the land’s bounty surround pensive faces, conveying the somewhat somber, reflective mood of the tale. An author’s note further explains the traditions of a holiday that emphasizes kindness and hospitality."
Booklist Review
Online Resources:
http://ericakimmel.com/teachers-guides/
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