Charlie and the two Sams are back and summertime is here. Charlie and Sam are off to overnight camp, ready to become more independent, make new friends, show camp spirit, share responsibilities, encounter nature, and celebrate a special shabbat filled with experiences long to be remembered. Jewish learning is both overt and subtle. Each day of camp, “yom” in Hebrew, is designated as “yom one,” “yom two,” etc. and a special sudsy camp activity has the bubbly name of “yom foam.” Sam Too is too young to join the others at camp, but she writes letters to them and they include her in a special “camp bayit” (home camp) at the end of the summer. The illustrations are appealing, quirky, and expressive, adding to the fun. Easy reading, effortless Jewish learning, a taste of camping adventure, and an all-around good time make this addition to the series another winner. Recommended for ages 6 – 8.
Michal Hoschander Malen is the editor of Jewish Book Council’s young adult and children’s book reviews. A former librarian, she has lectured on topics relating to literacy, run book clubs, and loves to read aloud to her grandchildren.