Ruby Finkelman Finds the Real Magic is a cute, gently written illustrated story for young readers (Lexile AD600L, ~4-8 years), by Dr. Mike King. Released 6th May 2025 by indie pub house The Collective Book Studio, it's 32 pages and is available in hardcover and ebook formats.
This is such a fun story with a great message for kids (and their grownups) about doing what's right and being the best person we can be. There are a lot of messages here, presented wisely and subtly, with a lot of humor. The illustrations, by Shahar Kober, really enhance the story and are full of small details which invite readers to take a closer look.
The text is simple and honest, and full of Yiddish words which are explained in context as well as in a short glossary in the back of the book. It manages to make its point without being strident or preachy once. Every parent who's struggled to get their kids to do something (all of us) will empathize with the adults in Kvellville.
Five stars. It would be an excellent choice for public or school library acquisition, for doctor/dentist waiting rooms, and for the home library.
Disclosure: I received an ARC at no cost from the author/publisher for review purposes.
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