A lyrical and uplifting story sings with hope about a community joining hands to fight intolerance, SHARING SHALOM, debuts September 17, 2024 from author Danielle Sharkan, illustrator Selina Alko, and publisher Holiday House.
"Leila loves going to Hebrew school and hearing stories of mighty kings and quick-witted queens. Being Jewish is a part of her story, and learning Hebrew connects her to her ancestors. L’dor V’dor! From one generation to the next! But when Leila’s synagogue gets vandalized, she isn’t sure what she wants. Something that used to make her feel special now just makes her feel different. Then Leila’s classmates and community come together to repair the synagogue. This compassionate gesture makes Leila realize that everyone around her is different—and that’s a beautiful thing."
As one of Danielle's critique partners, I was honored to read an early draft of SHARING SHALOM. It takes courage and conviction to write a story that has such an emotional core. By writing about a proudly Jewish girl whose faith is shaken--but ultimately rebuilt--after her synagogue is vandalized, it brings to the forefront anti-semitism and how it affects an entire community. Danielle does so with such love, care, and sensitivity. And children of all backgrounds will see that one does not have to hide your beliefs or identity or what might make us different. From the cover art celebrating community and diversity in the most beautiful way to the hopeful ending, SHARING SHALOM would be a welcome addition to classrooms and homes.
Speaking of the ART!!! Award-winning illustrator Selina Alko's textured collage art illustrations are stunning and pair perfectly with the lyrical text. Look closely through the jewel-tone paint and you will see texts of liturgical music and prayers. Back matter fosters discussion and promotes conversations about inclusion, building bridges, and empathy across communities and cultures.
Build a family tree to proudly share your roots like Leila.
SHARING SHALOM by Danielle Sharkan and Selina Alko
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Danielle has generously offered to give away a copy of SHARING SHALOM and a wooden family tree kit! Please go to my X (Twitter) to enter the giveaway and Instagram for an extra chance at winning this informative BOOK! (U.S. only)
ICYMI
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I am fortunate to have received an advance copy of this beautiful book with such an emotional story from the publisher. I didn't know you and Danielle are critique partners. Danielle is a local Colorado author friend and we are actually from the same are in Chicago as well!😊