British Columbia Millennium 2000 Book Award
Selected
for Our Choice by the Canadian
Children’s Book Centre
Short-listed
for Silver Birch Award, Ontario Library Association
Short-listed
for Red Cedar Award
Jesse is magically transported back in time to a small Russian village in the early 1900s, where he experiences life through the eyes of Yossi, his great-great-grandfather. Clumsy, mischievous Yossi finds himself an unlikely hero when he comes up with a daring plan to help the Jews escape from the cruel Russian soldiers who terrorize and persecute them. Back in modern time, Jesse finds new appreciation for his roots and his heritage.
"[Schwartz’s] depiction of the village has all the gusto and sprightly characterization of a folk tale…. This optimistic tale of Jewish immigration fills a niche with its appealing warmth and energy."
Michele Landsberg, Quill & Quire, May 2000ISBN 1-55143-143-2, 96 pages, paperback, ages 7-10
