(3) K-3 Illustrated by Natascia Ugliano. This story follows a family through years of Tu B'Shevat (Jewish New Year for trees) celebrations. Netta, her special plant, and her family get bigger, outgrow their spaces, then adapt to new homes. The intensely detailed drawings clearly depict Netta's relationships and her evolving life. With the plant as a consistent reference point, the narrative addresses many potentially challenging life changes with a straightforward, reassuring approach. Glos.

Reviewer: Miriam Steinberg-Egeth

(3) K-3 Illustrated by Natascia Ugliano. As Bezalel watches his grandmother Miriam (Moses' sister) comfort the Israelites on their trek through the desert, he draws pictures in the sand that extend or amplify Miriam's words and deeds. As a result, he's chosen to design and fashion the Holy Ark. Readers familiar with the Exodus story will appreciate this accessible and enjoyable interpretation illustrated with flowing desert-hued pictures.

Reviewer: Amy Lois Cohn

(3) K-3 Illustrated by Natascia Ugliano. This version of the Bible story of Joseph and his brothers is told from youngest brother Benjamin's perspective. How Joseph, sold into slavery by his siblings, involves Benjamin in testing their brothers and reuniting the family is the heart of the tale. Flowing, textured illustrations in deep hues display the story's drama and suspense.

Reviewer: Amy Kellman

(3) K-3 Illustrated by Natascia Ugliano. Jules retells and expands upon the story of Sarah, wife of Abraham. This quiet version, informed by biblical scholarship and legend, emphasizes Sarah's feelings and faith. The illustrations' curved lines and soothing colors match the book's calm tone; this is an epic story presented as an accessible human drama. An author's note provides information about sources.

Reviewer: Maeve Visser Knoth

(4) K-3 Illustrated by Natascia Ugliano. Rejecting idol worship, young Abraham looks to the natural world for answers. Observing the sun, moon, and rain and the beauty around him, he prays to "One God of earth and skies." Although Abraham's thought process and conclusions are oversimplified, readers will get the idea. The textured illustrations stay true to the simple beauty Abraham finds in nature. Bib.

Reviewer: Amy Kellman