"Mr. Baraka is reading the
newspaper on his porch.
"Hello there, Zachary."
He tips his hat. "Who
do we have here?"
"My brand-new baby sister."
"What does she go by?'
"She goes by - ""
Zachary is the young Jewish narrator of this warm family story who considers Shabbat the best day of the week; in fact, today's Shabbat is better than others because it is his baby sister's naming day. The family will stand with the Rabbi as her name is announced to everyone else.
After taking the dogs for a walk, it is time to make their way to the synagogue. Zachary will push his sister's carriage. As they go, they meet inquisitive members of the community who are interested to know her name. Each time, Zachary almost spills the beans - his mothers are quick to offer a name that describes the baby but isn't really her name.
Zachary is quick to invite these friends to accompany them, so they can hear the true name when it is announced. With each person they meet, the conversation takes the same turn; they would like to know her name. Luckily, Mama and Mommy are right there to offer creative and meaningful responses, assuring that no one knows the baby's name until they get to the ceremony. Each joins the procession, and they walk on.
Zachary carefully holds his sister while she sleeps. Just as he about to reveal her name, she opens her eyes and reaches for her brother's face. As he speaks her name out loud for all to hear, Aliza Shira burps and drools, making everyone beam with happiness. The walk home is filled with warm wishes and much joy from their community.
"Susan Gal was inspired by her favorite sunny cities in creating the artwork for Joyful Song. The multi-colored stucco houses and bustling neighborhoods were rendered in washes of watercolor on paper. Susan then used Photoshop to digitally layer colored pencil drawings and painted textures with the watercolors to create the vibrant landscapes."
Those stunning colors and comforting details give this family story the vibrancy and warmth that makes it a wonderful read in any setting. The diverse community is full of love and support for Zachary and his family as they celebrate a very special time in their new baby's life.
An author's note explains naming ceremonies, and the traditions concerning name choice.
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