Miss Debby's Best-Loved Books

Charlotte Jewish News May 2022

By Debby Block

Did you know that May 2-8 is “Be Kind to Animals” week? I love the concept of this commemorative week, as it not only aligns with my personal philosophy but also fits perfectly with the Jewish value of tz’ar ba’alei chayim — literally translated as preventing animal suffering. This month’s article will feature bestloved children’s books about animals and how we should treat them with kindness.

Maxi the dog tells his story in “The Adventures of Taxi Dog” by Debra and Sal Barracca. This rhyming picture book depicts how Maxi is rescued from the streets of New York City by a compassionate cab driver named Jim. It isn’t long before Jim and Maxi become a team, helping people all over the city. Recommended for children ages 3-6 years old.

Of course, all animals deserve kindness, even birds. “How to Heal a Broken Wing,” written and illustrated by Bob Graham, is the story of a little boy who finds an injured pigeon and gently wraps the pigeon and brings it home to heal. Though the text is limited, this book tells the story of kindness to animals predominately through its soft yet beautiful illustrations. In many ways, this book is like a graphic novel for the very young. Recommended for children ages 2-5.

Since my favorite birds are ducks, I have to give a nod to “Make Way for Ducklings” by Robert McCloskey. This award-winning classic shows how the kind police officers help and rescue a family of ducks. Recommended for children ages 3-7.

I recently discovered an amazing book called “Madeline Finn and the Shelter Dog” by Lisa Papp. When Madeline goes to the shelter to find a new puppy, she sees lots of other animals that need homes as well, and she decides to do something for the animals in the shelter. Madeline collects towels and blankets and organizes an event for kids to read books to the shelter animals. Without being saccharine or preachy, this book empowers kids to make a difference. Recommended for children ages 4-8.

For children under 2 years old, I recommend “Naamah and the Ark at Night,” which is a sweet and calming lullaby by Susan Campbell Bartoletti. Naamah is Noah’s wife who sings and comforts all the animals and the people on the ark. The illustrations by Holly Meade are stunning, and I especially love the use of shadow silhouettes on several pages. It is the perfect bedtime story for all young ones. I also love the PJ Library-curated board book “Baby Be Kind” by Jane Cowen-Fletcher, which includes a page about being gentle to animals.

As you can imagine, many of my favorite books growing up were about animals. For children 8 and older, I recommend heartwarming classics such as “Charlotte’s Web,” “Mr. Popper’s Penguins,” and “Rascal” about a pet raccoon.

Please visit the Levine-Sklut Judaic Library today to pick up a copy of one of these wonderful books today. Miss Debby’s best-loved books may also be reserved by calling (704) 944- 6783 or emailing library@jewishcharlotte.org.