Esther Didn't Dream of Being Queen by Allison Ofanansky

Esther Didn't Dream of Being Queen by Allison Ofanansky

Esther of the Purim story wonders whether it is a good idea to answer the summons when the king seeks a new Queen.

An orphaned Jewish girl becomes the renowned Queen Esther Esther is living a quiet life in the care of her cousin Mordecai when the king orders “all pretty young women” to report to the palace to be considered as a new queen. For three years she manages to avoid submitting to the edict. Eventually forced to comply, and with a warning from Mordecai to keep her religion a secret, she finds herself among a crowd of women vying to be the king’s choice. She remains true to herself, surreptitiously keeping Shabbat and wearing her old clothes. The king chooses her, perhaps in part for her strength of character, which she continues to display as queen. The king’s adviser, Haman, the villain of the story, intends to attack all the Jews, and it is Esther’s courageous plan that saves her people. Of course a celebration follows, still enjoyed today as Purim. Esther narrates her own tale, speaking directly to readers in a conversational tone, vividly describing her emotions and reactions as events unfold. Throughout her tale she alludes to similarities with “Cinderella,” but she emphasizes that her story “is not a fairy tale.” Belloni’s brightly hued, highly detailed animation-inflected illustrations creatively depict biblical-era Middle Eastern setting and dress. All characters are appropriately light-brown–skinned with dark hair.

A well-told Bible story of a strong, determined, persistent woman that will resonate with modern young readers. (author’s note) (Picture book/religion. 7-10) 

– Kirkus Reviews

Ofanansky, Allison Maile: - Allison Ofanansky, born in the U.S., moved to Israel and became an Israeli citizen in 1996. She lives in the village of Kaditah near the mystical city of Safed, with her husband Shmuel and daughter Aravah. They enjoy hiking the hills of the Galilee, gathering and eating the fruits that grow there. They are involved in environmental and eco-peace projects.

SKU	Unavailable
ISBN 13	9781681155616
ISBN 10	1681155613
Title	Esther Didn't Dream of Being Queen
Author	Allison Ofanansky
Condition	Unavailable
Binding Type	Hardback
Publisher	Behrman House Inc.,U.S.
Year published	2021-02-18
Number of pages	32
Cover note	Book picture is for illustrative purposes only, actual binding, cover or edition may vary.