A Purr-fect Passover

"The trio of adorable cats from Purr-im Time! (2023) return to celebrate Passover.

The variously colored kitties prepare by cleaning away all the crumbs (even reaching into a mouse hole, to the consternation of the rodent within), decorating matzah covers, bringing out plenty of food (including matzah balls and gefilte fish), and setting the table and welcoming guests. The seder proceeds as planned, with the kitties dressing as Pharaoh and Moses to reenact the Passover story; an image of Pharoah enduring the plagues will elicit giggles. Later, the kitties burst into song, enjoy a delectable meal, search for the afikoman, and then bid their guests goodbye before cleaning up. Waldman employs action-packed, upbeat verse; her rhymes are highly descriptive, with delightful catlike twists, as when a visiting kitten sings of the Four Questions, beginning with “Meow-nistanah” (Ma Nishtana)—not exactly standard Hebrew. Exuding joy and enthusiasm, the kitties are the stars of these bright, large-scale illustrations. Though the major aspects of the holiday are named, the author doesn’t explain them, so adults may want to offer additional context to readers unfamiliar with Passover. Still, these cats are having so much fun that many newcomers will eagerly come along for the ride.

Thoroughly delightful. (a note for families, instructions on making a “meow-tzah” cover) (Picture book. 3-7)"—Kirkus Reviews

"A family of adorable kitty cats prepares for Passover. Waldman and Chen (Purr-im Time!) continue the creativity of putting high-spirited cats front and center in this delightfully entertaining picture book. Bouncy, rhyming text is certain to keep even the smallest children engaged, and coupled with vivid and detailed colorful illustrations, this book is a Passover winner. The story begins with the kitties cleaning all the cookies out of their pantry, since leavened foods are not allowed during Passover. They decorate matzah covers for the special meal, and the word matzah is written in Hebrew in the illustrations for an authentic touch. From singing “Meow-nishtanah” to “Dayeinu,” the cats are having a marvelous time learning their Passover traditions. Chen does a wonderful job on the kitties’ facial expressions as they taste Tzimmes, kugel, and macaroons, then search for the afikoman. An author’s note teaches children how to make their own “meow-tzah covers.” This book highlights families and traditions and is certain to be a Passover favorite. VERDICT Thoroughly enjoyable and entertaining, this is a first purchase."—School Library Journal Starred Review