Summary
In this story, a young boy and a stray kitten cross paths during the young boys family traditions. The young boy’s family is Jewish, and they are celebrating Passover by having a cedar. The story compares what is happening on the inside of the family’s home verses the outside of the home where the cat lives until joining the family inside. The story shows the importance of traditions and family through a heartwarming story of rescuing a kitten during a potion of their Passover celebration.
Theme(s):
Family, Traditions, Loving
Personal Response
I believe that this story is a great way to introduce students to one of the many Jewish holidays. Students typically love animals, so by including the cat in this story, it can easily catch students attention and engagement while listening to the story. This story elicits typical ways to celebrate the Jewish culture but in a way that is still fun. I also like how the story shows the clothing that some Jewish families wear that may be different than what students have seen before.
Teaching Ideas
Since this story tells about one family’s traditions for a holiday that they celebrate, I would use this book as a way to discuss other holidays that students may celebrate. I would incorporate math by taking a vote on holidays that students celebrate. With the data collected, students would work together to create a class bar graph of how many people celebrate certain holidays. This would be an inclusive activity to celebrate all cultures and traditions.
Recommended Reading Level
Grade 01, Grade 02, Grade 03
