Set in one of the darkest times in human history, The Crystal Beads, Lalka’s Journey, follows a 7-year-old Jewish girl's struggle for survival under the Nazi regime. Learn about this powerful picture book and enter to win a copy!
My Review:
The Crystal Beads is a highly emotional read that leaves me with a heavy heart. As a story of love, sacrifice, courage and compassion, it sets an excellent example for how to tackle the difficult subject of Holocaust with subtlety and sensitivity and without any graphic detail that might be too terrifying for children. Told through the lens of an innocent child clueless about the life-threatening danger lurking ahead, the story makes it more likely for young readers to empathize with the main character and understand the hardships she has to endure, from attempting to conceal her Jewish identity to accepting the loss of her only family member.
The descriptions in the book are delicate, while the emotions bubbling under are intense. It is hard not to be moved by the mom's unconditional love for her child, the nun's admirable bravery to provide sanctuary at the risk of her own life, and the little girl's growth in courage and composure. The expressive illustrations help amplify the power of the words. The metaphorical use of colors, in particular, facilitates creating contrasts and building tension. This brilliant book may serve as a gentle and timely reminder of the devastating consequences of atrocity driven by hatred, prejudice and intolerance. Further, it urges youngsters to pursue peace, freedom and justice, and to make a difference through love and kindness.
About the Book:
Ages 8+ | 40 Pages
Publisher: Purple Butterfly Press | ISBN-13: 9781955119207
A Star of David necklace or a rosary?
In 1939 Poland, a young girl is asked to give up one of these and accept the other without understanding why. However, what she must part with happens to be her most prized possession—a precious gift given to her by her father before he died.
The child’s mother then teaches the girl a “game” to prepare her for what is to come. As the Nazis invade the country, the mother is forced to make a heartbreaking sacrifice.
This beautifully illustrated picture book is loosely based on a true story. Although told through the eyes of a young girl, the book is written for readers of all ages. It also contains two study guides. One is for children, parents, and teachers. The other is for adults who may gather in places of worship, book clubs, and small groups. Discussion topics include themes of compassion, empathy, and diversity.
Purchase Links: Amazon | Bookshop.org | Barnes and Noble
About the Author:
Pat Black-Gould, Ph.D., is a clinical psychologist and an author. Her short stories have appeared in several literary journals and anthologies.
Many years ago, Pat heard a powerful story that haunted her until she committed it to paper. The Crystal Beads was first published in Jewish Fiction. net in 2020. The short story then won first-place honors in two writing competitions conducted by the National League of American Pen Women, Washington, D.C.
The first was an award by the Pen Women Florida State Association. She then received the Flannery O’Connor Short Story Award as part of the National Biennial Letters in Competition. Pat felt it important to bring the story to a younger audience. At that point, she rewrote it as a children’s book. She hopes that The Crystal Beads, Lalka’s Journey, will do justice to the story she once heard and carry its message to younger generations.
Pat’s writing explores topics such as compassion, tolerance, and diversity. She continues to examine these themes in her upcoming novel, Limbo of the Moon, written with her co-writer, Steve Hardiman.
For more information, visit website | Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn | Goodreads
Four lucky readers will each win a copy of The Crystal Beads, Lalka's Journey!
Giveaway ends 8/11. Open to US only. Please enter below. Good luck!
The Crystal Beads: Book GiveawayDisclosure: This is a sponsored post in partnership with The Children’s Book Review and Purple Butterfly Press. icefairy's Treasure Chest is not responsible for winner selection or prize fulfillment.
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