cover image Dayenu! A Favorite Passover Song

Dayenu! A Favorite Passover Song

Illus. by Miriam Latimer. Scholastic/Cartwheel, $7.99 (12p) ISBN 978-0-545-31236-3

In this appealing board book for toddlers, the traditional “Dayenu” song chanted at the Passover seder takes center stage. Bright illustrations depict scenes mentioned in the song, including many of the awesome miracles celebrated during the holiday. The Jews’ exodus from Egypt is shown with happy men, women, and children playing musical instruments and carrying their belongings; the sea splitting for the newly freed nation is charmingly simple, perfect for little learners. The “Dayenu” refrain, which recurs after each stanza, shows a rejoicing family enjoying different aspects of the traditional meal, including approaching the table set with wine and the seder plate; reading from the Hagaddah, the standardized prayer book for the meals; and eating typical Jewish fare of chicken soup and matzo balls. Small children will enjoy turning these pages and learning some basic details of the holiday. Up to age 3. (Feb.)