I feel like I learned a lot about bar mitzvah's in this book. The author really delved into the purpose of the ceremony, what goes on, and whether you need to have one to be truly Jewish.

NetGalley, Aly Petersen

This is an interesting book that is worth a read if you’re specifically looking for Jewish-American realistic fiction or a tactful, sensitive portrayal of old age for a middle-grade reader who might have loved ones who are experiencing similar things.

NetGalley, Magdalena Biar

Rating: 5 out of 5 stars

I really liked this book, not only because it feels like this story could actually be happening anywhere in the world right now, but because of all of the relatable parts of the story. Cobbler is still grieving about his dead mother, on top of wanting to keep his friend, on top of his shyness about what people think about him. Anyone could have any number of the same problems he has and would find this book extremely helpful to find out how to get past it all. I hope you like the book!

NetGalley, Heather Emerick

It's the year 2000 and 11 year old Cobber has just started the 6th grade. He is still sad about his mother's death 6 years ago. He wants to be closer to his father but his father is always working. Cobber and his dad both spend time looking out for Cobber's 100 year old great grandfather Papa-Ben who lives in nearby Senior Housing. Cobber loves magic and wants to be a magician but is too shy to perform in front of anyone. Cobber also isn't sure of his identity or culture. His family is Jewish but they aren't pressuring him to make his bar-mitzvah and he isn't sure if he wants to. Basically, Cobber is having a rough time of life emotionally and feeling disconnected from his family.

This was a sweet and emotional story about a boy trying to figure out who he is and also trying to figure out how to make his family feel like a family again. I enjoyed it but didn't feel fully drawn into the story.

NetGalley, Jessica Haider

A great read for the children and the pace of the story is wonderful as are the characters. I think this will be an emotional but exciting read for younger readers.

NetGalley, Jim Daniels