The Stars (Aldana Libros)

Two children of different backgrounds but complementary interests are forced apart and then reunite years later in this sweet love story. . . cozy and cosmic.

A reductive tale of aspiration achieved through assimilation.

Gr 2-4--Yakov, a young boy from an Orthodox Jewish community and Aïcha, a Muslim girl in Montreal, become fast friends as they bond over their mutual interest in space. Both of them hope to one day become astronauts. One night, the two are stargazing, when Aïcha's hijab slips off, revealing her colorful curls. Her father catches them, yelling at Yakov, who has developed a crush on Aïcha, and whisking her away. Both of their parents are outraged, and they are immediately separated. Yakov desperately tries to reach Aïcha again, but finds she has moved away. Years pass and readers are transported to Yakov's adulthood, where he is happily working for NASA. He has shed his kippah and payot, implying that he has left his faith. He reunites with Aïcha at an astronomy conference, recognizing her by her hair, no longer covered by her hijab. The book concludes with images of the pair watching the stars with their three small children. Goldstyn's illustrations are lively and fun, and few readers will be unmoved by the turn of events that reunite Yakov and Aïcha. However, the plot raises many questions for picture book readers. The reasons for the parents' anger is never explored, while the characters' choices to leave or downplay their respective faiths is handled without explanation or nuance. By omitting these important details, the story may end up framing religion as an inherently oppressive system. VERDICT A useful title for units on prejudice, or an exploration of differences and commonalities; educators can bridge what otherwise may make be cryptic to the usual picture book audience.--Jillian Girardeau,

Copyright 2023 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

Kinetic. . . engaging, and readers can't help rooting for the star-crossed lovers. . . —The Wall Street Journal

Goldstyn's light, humorous illustrations. . . provide rich detail and serve to deepen reader understanding of the religious and cultural context and setting. . . quirky, hilarious details. A perfect opportunity for a quick read aloud for older students. Recommended. —School Library Connection

Praise for the The Eleventh Hour by Jacques Goldstyn

While this well-written title is meant for a younger audience, older students may also connect with the content as they study World War I and seek a depiction of the life of a soldier. —School Library Connection

A history lesson and conversation starter in one book. —Kirkus STARRED Review

Because of its particular focus on WWI, the story may be of special value to teachers whose classes are studying the period. —Publishers Weekly

This antiwar parable. . . is a powerful and accessible multi-audience picture book that imbues meaning to the hundredth anniversary of a war's end now shrouded in the long ago while challenging young readers to weigh the merits of current conflicts in the news. —Bulletin of the Center for Children's Books

Goldstyn's text is powerful in its spareness, while his cartoon pictures successfully capture the story's tone and moods, both antic and somber; taken together, these create a memorable, moving tale. —Booklist

This is a beautiful and heartfelt picture book about war and perspective that should be a part of all social studies curriculum. —School Library Journal STARRED Review

Praise for Letters to a Prisoner by Jacques Goldstyn, illustrated by Angela Keenlyside

Goldstyn was inspired by the letter-writing campaigns of human rights organization Amnesty International. His book is an accessible and inspiring tribute. "The pen is mightier than the sword" lives on. —Kirkus STARRED Review

This deserves to be everywhere children are learning about the wider world. — Publishers Weekly STARRED Review