With evocative phrasing and a strong and sure emphasis on loyalty and girl power, Schur (The Peddler's Gift
) offers a fresh take on this Bible story. When her husband and two sons die, Naomi does not want to be a burden to her also widowed daughters-in-law. As Naomi plans to return to her homeland in search of a fresh start, her daughter-in-law Ruth insists on accompanying her, despite Naomi's protests. "Wherever you go, I will go. Your people shall be my people, and your god, my God," Ruth insists. Ruth embodies duty, love and devotion—as well as faith in Divine Providence from a newly embraced God—as she cares for her mother-in-law, and is eventually rewarded with a romantic love of her own. Connelly balances a palette of lush greens, dusty browns and bold jewel tones in her softly lined watercolors. Though the tale is accessible to people of other faiths, an author's note explains Ruth's special connection to the Jewish holiday of Shavuot. Ages 5-9. (Aug.)
