Fast Asleep in a Little Village in Israel

by Jennifer Tzivia MacLeod, Tiphanie Beeke (Illustrator)

The sounds of Mrs. Strauss's Israeli village keep her awake but the gentle patter of long awaited rain is a welcome addition to the noise.

Genres: Picture Books, Jewish, Israel

32 pages, Hardcover

Published August 1, 2018

About the author

Jennifer Tzivia MacLeod is the proud mother of four kids (two big and two little). In August 2013, she moved with her family from Toronto, Canada to northern Israel.

Reviews

[Jenna Grodzicki]

Fast Asleep in a Little Village in Israel tells the story of Mrs. Strauss. Mrs. Strauss just wants to get a little more sleep before her day begins, but all around her there are noises that keep her up. Words in Hebrew are seamlessly woven into the text. Young readers will enjoy the beautiful illustrations. Author's Note brings context to the meaning of the first rainfall, that Mrs. Strauss delights in. This book will make a wonderful addition to any school, library, or home collection.

[Viviane Elbee]

This book is set in a little town in Israel and the main character, Ms. Strauss, wants to sleep late one morning. Unfortunately she keeps hearing the sounds of her village waking up - from roosters to cats, from shops to trains. But there’s only one thing that can get her out of bed...

The illustrations are lovely and the cultural aspect of life in another country is great for kids who love stories about other countries. (Kids might also like that the main character has blue hair.)

[Evelyn Bookless]

An enjoyable window into life in a "little village in Israel" that fills the senses with everyday sounds and smells. Poor Mrs Strauss is trying hard to get some sleep but the noisy animals keep her up. All are restless, waiting for the first rain of the season. The illustrations are beautiful. It's hard not to celebrate along with Mrs Strauss and the animals when the rain finally arrives.

[Samuel or Hahna Robinowich]

Hebrew and Spanish roosters make rather similar noises, and now I know because of this book! Good book, easy blending of Hebrew into the story.