Discover the Joy of Kindness and Inclusive Friendships in Noah and His Wagon by Jerry Ruff
Noah and His Wagon is a heartwarming children's picture book that beautifully illustrates the Jewish value of helping others and the importance of building inclusive communities. Authored by Jerry Ruff and illustrated by Katrijn Jacobs, the story follows Paloma, a young girl feeling lonely after her best friend moves away. Her world brightens when she meets Noah, a boy with a wagon, who introduces her to acts of kindness and the joy of making new friends.
Noah, depicted as an Orthodox Jewish boy, embodies the spirit of generosity. He explains that his cat's name, Mitzvah, means "commandment" in Hebrew, highlighting the significance of good deeds in Jewish tradition. Through their adventures, Paloma learns that small acts of kindness can lead to meaningful connections and a sense of belonging.
The book has received praise for its gentle messaging and vibrant illustrations. Kirkus Reviews describes it as "a message about the importance of community, gently imparted with love," while Booklist calls it "a warmhearted picture book about building community one act of kindness at a time." Jacobs’ detailed illustrations, are full of movement and activity, effectively capturing the dynamic interactions between characters.
Ideal for children aged 5–10, Noah and His Wagon is a valuable resource for parents and educators seeking to teach children about empathy, diversity, and the impact of kindness.
This Premium Softcover edition has special additional material to help young readers understand the Jewish elements!
Product details
- Publisher : Kalaniot Books (May 1, 2025)
- Language : English
- Paperback : 32 pages
- ISBN-10 : 1962011038
- ISBN-13 : 978-1962011037
- Reading age : 4 - 6 years
- Grade level : Preschool - 1
- Item Weight : 1.11 pounds