Days of Awe: 2stories for Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur

In Judaism, Rosh Hashanah (the ``Beginning of the Year''), Yom Kippur (the ``Day of Atonement'') and the 10 days in between make up the High Holidays, or Yamin Noraim,the so-called Days of Awe. This collection of three stories draws its inspiration from the tales of the Baal Shem Tov, and serves as a moving and meaningful introduction to both the holidays' spiritual messages and the transcendent joy inherent in the Hasidic tradition. Folklorist Kimmel skillfully presents a narrative emblematic of each of the three themes of the Days of Awe--charity, prayer and repentance. Weihs's folksy oil paintings enhance this handsomely produced volume and, together with these resonant retellings, actively invite family sharing. Ages 8-12. (Sept.)