Highlighting the Jewish custom to remove all traces of leavened foods from the home before Passover, The Passover Mouse is a quick-paced tale based on a passage of the Talmud. A mouse brings remnants of chometz (leavened food) from one person’s home to another, setting off alarm and questioning throughout the village. It is not only a story of Jewish traditions, but also a story of the interconnectedness and support of a community. The pace of the story is mirrored in the illustrations, projecting the sense of panic and worry instigated by the thieving mouse. Final pages include an author’s note explaining the tale from the Talmud that this story is based upon, as well as a glossary of terms, both useful for those readers with limited knowledge of the Jewish faith. Intended for children ages 4-7, The Passover Mouse is a great addition for any librarian looking to expand their collection of stories from the Jewish faith.

Reviewed by Jennifer Benham, Prince Memorial Library, Cumberland