CCBC booklist are compiled from books we have recommended in various editions of CCBC Choices. Most of these booklists are updated annually. You can also select books from one or more booklists to create a custom list, which can also include additional books from the CCBC-Recommended Book Search.
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Shabbat Is...
CCBC Review:
Shabbat looks different for three young members of one Jewish congregation in this unconventional story about the day of rest. On Friday night, a red-haired child cheers their sister on at her basketball game; afterward, the siblings and their two moms shop for groceries. Others have more traditional observances. A brown-skinned child walks to Friday-night services to welcome in Shabbat with their parents, and a Black child savors a big family meal at home; their uncle sets the oven to shut off on its own, and their aunt places tape over the light switches. On Saturday morning, the three families attend services on a particularly special day: one of their cousins is having their b’nai mitzvah ceremony. This affirming, inclusive story celebrates Shabbat as “unique and beautiful for every person,” a day that is especially lovely when it can be shared with a community. The narrative invites the reader to consider what Shabbat means to them. It “can be a walk. Eating challah. Dinner with relatives. Maybe for you it’s something different.” An Author’s Note and extensive glossary are included. ©2026 Cooperative Children’s Book Center
Illustrated by Noa Kelner
CCBC Age Recommendation: 4-8
Age Range:
PreK-Early Elementary (Ages 4-7)
Grades 3-5 (Ages 8-10)
Format:
Picture book
Subjects:
Faith, Spirituality and Religion
Families
Jewish People
Traditions
Diversity subjects:
Black/African
Brown Skin Unspecified
Jewish
On CCBC Booklist:
Religion in the Lives of Children and Teens
Publisher:
Little, Brown
Publish Year: 2025
Pages: 32
ISBN: 9780316446716
CCBC Location: Picture Book, Sass
Can’t find what you’re looking for? Our Recommended Book Search includes access to CCBC-recommended titles based on subject headings created by our staff.
Please send questions or comments about CCBC booklists to ccbcinfo@education.wisc.edu.