Engineer Ari and the Rosh Hashanah Ride

September 1, 2008
PreS-Gr 2-In 1892, Ari is selected to engineer the first train between Jaffa and Jerusalem. Filled with pride, he boasts to his friends and neglects to say goodbye to them before he sets off. As the train stops to collect the necessary items to celebrate the Jewish New Yearapples, honey, round challah, and shofarshe is reminded of the true meaning of the holiday. He promises to do teshuvah"to do better"when he returns to Jaffa by apologizing for his insensitive behavior. Cheerful illustrations depict the sights and scenes of Israel with nostalgia and charm as mustachioed Ari and his red train pass through the land. An author's note provides additional information about the history of the first steam train in Israel, along with an archival photo. Libraries looking to expand their Jewish holiday bookshelf will want to add this delightful title, which will also appeal to train-loving children.Rachel Kamin, Des Plaines Public Library, IL

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