Noah and the Ziz
Second in a series featuring the Ziz
by Jacqueline Jules
Illustrated by Katherine Janus Kahn
The Ziz is a big colorful bird who
has been the star of a previous book by Jacqueline Jules, called
The Hardest Word: A Yom Kippur Story. He is well-meaning
but often gets into trouble. In his latest adventure, the Ziz helps
Noah gather all of the animals into the ark. His rush to get the
job done lands him in trouble with Noah, who keeps telling him to
slow down. The Ziz learns his lesson and still saves the day.
Children will enjoy Jules'
delightful, but very fallible, character the Ziz just because he
isn't perfect. They will crow when they see him carrying the zebras
and tigers by their stripes! The Ziz is klutzy and overeager and
draws frowns from grownups just as children sometimes do, but he
learns from his mishaps. And, that's the heart of Jules' books.
The Ziz, who already is bigger than life and makes gigantic mistakes,
learns from them and becomes a better person because of it.
Katherine Janus Kahn's bright
watercolor illustrations bring to life this new twist on the flood
story. The animals are whimsical and colorful, and poor old Noah
looks harried and overworked.
Noah and the Ziz
is sure to be a book that little ones will want their parents to
read over and over-and this story won't be tiresome for adults.
In fact, I read it several times and still found surprises in the
story and the illustrations that I didn't notice before. The language
Jules uses is easy for young readers, but it is not sparse or condescending.
Jules, a school librarian,
has become so enamored with her character the Ziz that she had a
local artist make a stuffed replica of the big, yellow bird. Her
stuffed friend accompanies her at book signings and library and
school appearances. |
The Book |
Kar-Ben Publishing |
January 2005 |
Paperback |
1-58013-121-2 |
Children, picture book - Age Group: 3-8 |
More
at Amazon.com |
Excerpt |
NOTE: |
The Reviewer |
Janie
Franz |
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NOTE:
Reviewer Janie Franz is the author of Freelance Writing:
It's a Business, Stupid!, Relaxation Techniques for
Children, Relaxation Techniques for Adults, co-author
of The Ultimate Wedding Reception Book Coming soon:
The Ultimate Wedding Ceremony Book, The Ultimate
Wedding Workbook, Get Rich on Love, and Sacred
Breath (a sound recording of relaxation meditations). |
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