Customer Reviews

Always an Olivia: A Remarkable Family History

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Esteemed author Carolivia Herron shares the story based on her own fascinating history as a Jewish African-American. Always an Olivia is a heartwarming story of pride and family connections. Young readers will discover a unique piece of history through the eyes of young Carol Olivia as her grandmother passes on the story of her family - from one generation to another. From the Spanish inquisition to Jewish life in Portugal and Italy, Herron describes the joys and struggles of Jewish life. The youngest of readers might be alarmed when beautiful young Sarah is kidnapped by pirates, but Sarah's future brightens when one of the pirates aids in her escape. Like a real-life fairytale, they eventually fall in love and settle on the Georgia Sea Islands, among the descendants of West African slaves. Deep colored illustrations beautifully depict the characters and the scenery. Particularly noteworthy are the vibrant flowers depicted in the illustration of the Georgia Sea Islands, which contrast the darkness of the night sky when Sarah is in captivity. Herron includes a footnote of "Jews and Racial Designation," which will be of interest to teachers and students. Always an Olivia is a unique and important addition to any Jewish school or library. Although appropriate for readers as young as five, older children will be interested in the political and family history aspects of the story. This book is sure to be a favorite among teachers embarking on family genealogy projects. Highly recommended. Ages 5 and up. Reviewed by Barbara Bietz

Carol Olivia visits her great-grand mother and learns of her Jewish ancestors and their having to flee Spain because of the Spanish Inquisition, and her African American ancestors who were slaves in America.

Your children should read this beautiful book!

I bought this book for my 4-year-old at a book festival, and it's so interesting. I enjoyed the story more than she did. It's a bit too sophisticated for her. But she loves the illustrations and the language, so it holds her interest. I never knew about this aspect of Jewish history.