
Reach for this book when your child is grappling with a major move or feeling like an outsider in a new environment. While the story is rooted in history, it speaks directly to the modern child's need to find belonging after their world has been turned upside down. It follows Yossel, whose family flees religious persecution in Russia to start a new life in the American Southwest. Through Yossel's eyes, children see that while change is frightening, it also opens doors to unexpected connections. The story highlights the beautiful intersection of Jewish and Navajo cultures, teaching empathy and the value of sharing one's heritage. It is a gentle yet profound look at resilience and the universal language of friendship, making it an ideal choice for children ages 6 to 10 who are learning to navigate new social landscapes.
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Sign in to write a reviewHistorical context regarding why the family had to leave Russia.
The book touches on religious persecution (pogroms) and the displacement of indigenous peoples. The approach is direct but age-appropriate, acknowledging the fear of the past while focusing on the hope of the future. The resolution is realistic and hopeful, emphasizing human connection over historical trauma.
An elementary-aged child who is an 'observer,' perhaps one who has recently moved to a new school or state and feels like they are 'from another planet.' It is also perfect for families looking to explore Jewish history beyond the Holocaust.
Parents should be prepared to explain what a 'pogrom' is in simple terms: a time when people were mean to Jewish families because of their religion. The book can be read cold, but a map of Russia and New Mexico helps provide context. A child may express fear about 'bad people' coming to their home, or they might ask why people are mean to those who are different.
Younger children (6-7) will focus on the friendship between Yossel and Thomas and the cool desert animals. Older children (8-10) will pick up on the parallels between the Jewish and Navajo experiences of preserving culture in the face of change.
Most historical fiction for this age group focuses on either the immigrant experience in New York City or the typical 'pioneer' story. Lasky uniquely blends these, showing the vibrant intersection of Jewish and Indigenous lives in the West.
Yossel and his family are Jewish refugees fleeing the Russian pogroms of the early 20th century. They settle in New Mexico, trading the icy landscapes of their homeland for the dusty heat of the desert. While running a trading post, Yossel meets Thomas, a Navajo boy. Despite their vastly different backgrounds, they find common ground in their art, stories, and the shared experience of living on the American frontier.
This overview was generated by AI based on the book's content and reviews, and may not capture every nuance.