Review of Not So Fast, Max

Not So Fast, Max
Written by Annette Schottenfeld
Illustrated by Christopher Silas Neal
Age Level: 4 – 7
Grade Level: 1 – 2
 
I liked this book a lot. It gave me a peak into what it’s like to be Jewish and to celebrate Rosh Hashana. I would have bought it when I was still teaching because it lets kids peek in . . .  using food, and traditions!

Savta, or Grandma, is visiting from Israel. She takes Max and his sister to the apple orchard. Max wants his apples now, but Savta persists in dragging her grandchildren through her favorite traditions. Max persists in trying to hurry things up. Don’t worry! There’s a happy ending, plus back matter! It includes how to celebrate Rosh Hashana and learn a little Hebrew, how to make apple cake and caramel apples. Sounds YUMMY to me!

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