In the style and with the cadence of This Is the House that Jack Built, the author tells the story of the Israelites’ escape from the harshness of slavery in Egypt and from the yoke of Pharaoh’s heavy hand. Moses leading the people, the Egyptians chasing after them in their chariots, the rushing Red Sea … all the elements are worked into perfectly scanning rhyme as the story unfolds in an engaging and exciting manner. It is fun to read the story in this lilting, rhythmic format and the accompanying color artwork is charmingly executed and perfectly suits the book’s style.
This story can be enjoyed as a traditional Bible tale in rhyme or as pre-Passover preparation, but it is also a rollicking read-aloud for any time at all. The biblical verse on which the story is based is quoted at the end of the book.
This Christian publisher produces many Bible stories which are suitable for a young Jewish audience and this is one that works well. It is recommended for ages 4 to 7.
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.