Zayde Babysits Before Passover

While Ruthie’s parents help Bubbe prepare to host the seder, Zayde makes his debut as Ruthie’s babysitter, guided by 10 instructions from Mommy. Humor emerges from the contrast between Sutton’s administrative-style text and Chappell’s naif illustrations as Zayde interprets the notes: Instruction No. 3 (“Go to the grocery store. Remember to buy parsley for the seder plate”) finds Ruthie pushing Zayde in a shopping cart while he waves the parsley like a flag. A few mishaps occur—punctuated with “Oy!”—but Zayde completes his childcare mission and leads the seder with aplomb in a book that shows a mix of spontaneity and tradition making a cherished holiday even more meaningful. The family is portrayed with pale skin. More about Passover concludes. Ages 4–9. (Jan.)