The Longest Night: A Passover Story by Laurel Snyder, illustrated by Catia Chien
This Passover picture book tells the story of the Exodus from the point of view of a young slave girl. Readers first get a sense of the harsh environment and difficult lives of the Jewish people: the heat, the hard labor, the slavery. Then come the plagues, one after another. Finally there is the Exodus itself, the thrill and fear of fleeing in the darkness. And finally, the miracle of the sea splitting in two, giving them safe passage away from Egypt.
Written in rhyme, Snyder has created a book filled with rhythm and a story that moves swiftly along through the different parts of the Exodus. Her choice of telling the story from the point of view of a child makes the story all the more personal and dramatic.
Chien’s illustrations are just as dramatic with their deep color palette. Especially moving are the natural moments, when the little girl finds openness and freedom in the world around her, though she can’t find it personally. At these moments, the sky is huge and beautiful, but quickly the grit and sand return.
A powerful and lovely exploration of the Old Testament tale of the Exodus given a fresh and personal aspect. Appropriate for ages 5-7.
Reviewed from copy received from Schwartz & Wade.
