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The Midnight Mitzvah

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Hardcover ISBN: 9798888592342 $17.99 In stock	- +
Paperback ISBN: 9798888592359 $9.99 In stock	- +

Written by Ruth Horowitz

Illustrated by Jenny Meilihove

In this retelling of a 2,000-year-old story from the Talmud (Jewish book of law), Hanina Chipmunk knows it’s a mitzvah to help others . . . but how can she give food to a hungry friend without making her friend feel embarrassed? She tries to do her good deed in secret, under the cover of darkness. But Hanina will need her wits and bravery to complete her mitzvah. Endnotes unpack the original tale and the Jewish value of helping those in need (tzedakah).

Key Selling Points:

JEWISH REPRESENTATION: A beautiful story about a core Jewish value – tzedakah, which means “justice” – based on a tale from the Talmud.
SOCIAL-EMOTIONAL LEARNING: This story delivers a sweet message about generosity, empathy, and the power of anonymous charity, not done for show or credit but for the sake of the good deed itself.
EDUCATIONAL ENDNOTES: Notes at the end include more information about the original tale in the Talmud, tzedakah, and similar traditions (giving anonymous charity) in Islam and Christianity.

More Details

Product Dimensions: 8.5 x 10.75 in
Page Count: 32 pages
Age Range: 3-7 years

Awards & Accolades

“This sweet, simply told story is based on a tale from the Talmud, one of Judaism’s central texts. It will resonate with children who are generally altruistic by nature” – Kirkus Reviews

“No secret here: like the kindest mitzvot, this story is a blessing! Ruth Horowitz and Jenny Melihove have created a charming book that shows young readers how to give and receive with dignity, heart, and a dash of humor!” – Sarah Aronson, author of Just Like Rube Goldberg

“Hanina chipmunk is an endearing character with a strong desire to spread kindness despite the challenges. A true hero, she uses gumption and creativity to accomplish her goal. Caring and determined, she's sure to win the hearts of young readers” – Linda Glaser, author of Emma’s Poem

“The Midnight Mitzvah is an absolutely charming story! Beautifully written, it carries an important message without being didactic at all. Young readers will love Hanina Chipmunk and learn from her the importance of being kind” – Lesléa Newman, author of Joyful Song: A Naming Story

“The Midnight Mitzvah is a meaningful tale about Jewish traditions of giving. Readers will cheer for Hanina Chipmunk's bravery as she pursues a kind deed” – Alison Goldberg, author of Eighteen Flowers for Grandma

“A heartfelt, touching story imparting the important wisdom of giving to others in need without causing any embarrassment to the receiver” – Liza Wiemer, author of The Assignment

“Horowitz’s gentle story (based on an ancient Talmudic tale) explains the concept of a mitzvah (doing a good deed for someone) and the importance of doing it secretly so that the recipient is not embarrassed” – Booklist

About the Contributors

Written by - Ruth Horowitz

Ruth Horowitz is the award-winning author of children's books about bats, giant cockroaches, horseshoe crabs, family, friends, and community. She has also worked as a school librarian and a newspaper editor. Ruth lives in Rhode Island, USA, with her husband.

Illustrated by - Jenny Meilihove

Jenny Meilihove, an Israeli children’s book writer and illustrator, paints dreamy scenes with gouache, pencils, and crayons. Her work delves into magical moments, evoking warm feelings and exploring beautiful themes. Passionate about crafting children’s books, Jenny finds joy in the naive and vibrant world they create, where anything is possible.

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