The Four Questions

by Lynne Sharon Schwartz, Ori Sherman (Illustrator)

Explores the meaning of Passover by explicating the symbolism of the Seder and the four questions

Genres: Picture Books, Nonfiction, Jewish, Religion, Holiday

32 pages, Hardcover

First published January 1, 1989

About the author

Lynne Sharon Schwartz (b. 1939) is a celebrated author of novels, poems, short fiction, and criticism. Schwartz began her career with a series of short stories before publishing her first novel, the National Book Award–nominated Rough Strife (1980). She went on to publish works of memoir, poetry, and translation. Her other novels have included the award-nominated Leaving Brooklyn (1989) and Disturbances in the Field (1983). Her short fiction has appeared in theBest American Short Stories annual anthology series several times. In addition, her reviews and criticism have appeared in numerous magazines and newspapers. Schwartz lives in New York City, and is currently a faculty member of the Bennington Writing Seminars.

Reviews

[Jon Nakapalau]

Now I have a basic understanding of Passover - the Four Questions and how important they are to the Jewish people. The fact that the youngest child is the one who is asking is a wonderful way to connect generations together - can imagine how proud grandparents must be as this happens! Wonderful illustrations make this a truly special book.

[Holly]

For JE 296 collection. This book has really beautiful illustrations. It is the perfect answer to a child's questions about why Jewish people eat the specific items on the Passover Seder plate. The target audience is Jewish children and/or families but it could be used to teach non-Jewish children about the Jewish celebration of Passover. Scripture isn't super heavy, but you will recognize the Exodus story. The questions in the book are written in both English and Hebrew but that is the only part that is bilingual. The explanations/answers are in total English.

[Shannon (That's So Poe)]

If you have any interest in cultural practices, this is such a cool book to pick up! It talks all about the history and ceremony of Passover, all told through incredibly vivid and beautiful illustrations. I'd definitely recommend it!

Content Warnings:
slavery, plague, child death/massacre

[Amanda Brooke]

I am learning a lot about Passover from picture books like this. This book in particular made me wonder (ponder?) How amazing is it that people have been celebrating this tradition for thousands of years. Have you ever tasted anything with the purpose of sharing an experience with someone near you as well as through history? The memory of flavor is so intense and clearly a simple way to savor freedom from enslavement, never to be forgotten.

[Liza Wiemer]

Stunning illustrations, and the text was perfect to share with young children learning about the holiday of Passover. One thing that really stood out for me was the reason why animals were used to depict the Passover seder. I admit that I was taken aback by it because it seemed so unusual! However, there's a fascinating explanation in the author's note at the end. I had no idea that animals had been used to illustrate Haggadahs in the past. It made me want to do more research into the topic.

Thank you to Levine Queridofor the review copy.

[Jim]

how did this book not get at least a caldecott honor?

[Edward Sullivan]

The questions asked by the youngest child of the family gathered for Passover Seder illustrated with stunning, sophisticated paintings of animals with human characteristics.

[Julie Ditton]

This beautiful has absolutely gorgeous illustrations that are worthy of a Haggaddah.I was curious as to why the illustrations were all animals until I read the authors note explaining that this was common practice in early haggadahs. This book explains the story of the exodus and the answers to the four questions found in the hagaddah. It is not a picture book intended for young children, but an informational piece intended for middle school and above. It is appropriate reading for both Jews and non-jews alike.

[Robin]

Explanation of the Passover foods and traditions in lovely paintings with anthropomorphized animals borrowed from historic sources.

[Christie Kaaland]

Informative text that explains, in child-friendly terms, components of Passover Seder traditions around food. Recognizable Biblical stories very briefly described.

[Nichole]

Best for readers who already have some familiarity with passover.

[Danielle Matlin]

Excellent children’s book telling the story of Passover in a way easy to understand, and stunning illustrations.

[Jason Benoit]

A good read.
A few slight inaccuracies but well-meaning and enjoyable.

[Cws]

JEPic-Sch

[Cheryl]

Very colorful illustrations depict animals celebrating Passover. In the back, the author included a list of the steps of Seder.