Shoshi's Shabbat
The virtues of taking a break – and of being thankful – are extolled in the gentle story of a stubborn ox, an impatient farmer, and a day of rest.
Long ago, in the hills near Jerusalem, lived a young ox. For six days each week, she and her owner would toil in the fields, and on the seventh day both would rest. Then it came to be that this young ox was sold. For six days, she toiled in her new owner’s fields, and on the seventh day the farmer brought out the yoke and plough, expecting to spend another day hard at work. But Shoshi the ox had a different idea. In a warm, friendly narrative and vivid, humorous art, author Caryn Yacowitz and illustrator Kevin Hawkes bring to life a tale drawn from the ancient Jewish stories known as the Midrash, a story as relevant today as it was long ago. It’s a tale of encountering other cultures and learning from them, of paying attention to the world around you – sun, breeze, animals, people – and above all, of learning to slow down and take a break.
Caryn Yacowitz is a playwright, speaker, and the author of several picture books, including Baby Moses in a Basket, illustrated by Julie Downing. Growing up, Caryn loved her father's made up stories. Her favourite being The Lady with the Big Toe, about a lady who could sail away from danger on her toe, fight off enemy soldiers with it, and hide from robbers! Her life-long love of reading and theatre inspired her first picture book, Onstage/Backstage. She hasn't stopped writing since. Caryn lives in California, USA. Find her online at carynyacowitz.com.
Kevin Hawkes is the illustrator of many award-winning books for children, including Library Lion, written by Michelle Knudsen, The Hanukkah Magic of Nate Gadol by Arthur A. Levine, and There's a Dinosaur on the Thirteenth Floor and There's a Dodo on the Wedding Cake, both written by Wade Bradford. He lives with his wife and children in Maine, USA. Find Kevin online at kevinhawkes.com.