The 2019 Sydney Taylor Book Award

Summary: In Brooklyn, Moses, a Jewish boy, and Mohammed, a Muslim boy, meet by chance during overlapping holidays. Mistaken for brothers, they form a bond that unites their families. As Rosh Hashanah and Ramadan coincide, they share traditions and dreams of peace, challenging cultural divides. Can their friendship inspire harmony in a divided world?

Summary: Imani, adopted and curious about her origins, seeks her birth parents as a bat mitzvah gift. Her journey takes an unexpected turn when she finds her great-grandmother Anna's diary, detailing a harrowing escape from Nazi-occupied Europe to a new life in America. As Imani delves into Anna's past, she uncovers profound connections and redefines her understanding of family. Will the secrets of the past illuminate her own path forward?

Summary: Noah and Dash, comedy-loving seventh graders, are preparing for their bar mitzvahs when tragedy strikes Dash's family. As Dash withdraws, Noah struggles to reconnect, risking their friendship and his sense of humor. Can Noah prove that loss doesn't mean losing everything? This heartfelt tale explores the power of friendship and resilience amidst life's challenges.

Summary: Marc Chagall, a young dreamer, sees beyond his future as a butcher or baker. Inspired by a classmate's sketch, he discovers the transformative power of art. As his talent blossoms, his parents question his potential, but an art teacher's nod sets him on an extraordinary path. From his pre-WWI childhood to his rise as a renowned artist, Chagall's journey is a testament to art's revolutionary power. Will his vibrant visions change the world? Explore the colorful life of a man who never stopped growing, painting, and dreaming.