Esther's Story

From Publishers Weekly Just in time for Purim comes this lovely retelling of the story of Esther, the young Jewish girl who became a Persian queen and saved her fellow Jews from annihilation. Wolkstein casts this inspiring biblical tale in the form of a diary. In her own words, Esther tells how she came of age in a strange land; she records her hopes, joys, fears and sorrows as she moves from quiet teenager to exalted queen. She reflects, also, upon the meaning of her actions as they affect not only her people but also her understanding of her own identity. Wijngaard's lavish illustrations and Wolkstein's rendering of Esther's first-person narration breathe new humanity into this grand and glorious story, introducing to all children the power of self-sacrifice. Ages 7- up. Copyright 1996 Reed Business Information, Inc. --This text refers to an out of print or unavailable edition of this title. From School Library Journal Grade 1-5?Using the form of a first-person narrative, Wolkstein fleshes out the Biblical heroine's personality. A sheltered young Jewish girl who is elevated to the position of King Ahasuerus's wife, Esther retains her qualities of gentleness, loyalty, and compassion while displaying spirit and intelligence in her plan to foil Haman's nefarious plot to destroy her people. The text is vivid and declarative, with ample dialogue, and leaves the Biblical basis of the story intact, even to the slaughter by the Jews of Haman's many sons and followers. A brief definition of Purim and the way it is celebrated is included, but the emphasis is on the historical/legendary foundation of the holiday. Magnificent full-page gouache illustrations, confined formally in multiple marbleized frames, are rich with gleaming colors and elegant geometric patterns and peopled by handsome, lively characters. The luxury of the royal palace, its furnishings, and the gorgeous costumes of its inhabitants are especially well depicted.?Patricia Pearl Dole, formerly at First Presbyterian School, Martinsville, VACopyright 1996 Reed Business Information, Inc.