Customer Reviews

The Magician's Visit: A Passover Tale (Viking Kestrel picture books)

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When I saw the title of this book on Amazon, I realized that I hadn't read it yet this Pesach. I jumped up from the computer, ignored the mess in my son's room, and found the book still on his shelf. Reading it, tears came to my eyes as in all other years. My son's 11 now; he probably thinks he's too old for a picture book, but I bet he'll re-read it now that I have it out. It was always one of our favorite books to share about Judaism, because it's so universal. In the story, a poor family gives away everything to even poorer people, and yet Elijah comes to be their seder guest--bringing them joy and comfort and affirmation of their faith. I'm weepy again just thinking about it! Really, this one is worth ordering and keeping.

On Passover, the Jewish people recall their slavery in Egypt; each generation must remember as if they themselves had been slaves.

It is also the holiday when they remember the prophet Elijah, welcoming him figuratively into their homes to share the Pesach feast and wine. One highlight of the annual Seders is sending the children to open the door for Elijah.

This story is about one rare time when Elijah paid a visit, as he does from time to time, to reward especially righteous and deserving people. Disguised as a magician, he laid a feast for Hayim-Jonah and Rivkah-Bailah, a couple of great faith who gave their last pennies to the poor people's Passover fund, for there were others having still less than they.

The story itself is a feast of faith for the eyes, ears and heart. Alyssa A. Lappen

I began reading this book every year at Passover to my daughter when she was age 2. I haven't read the book in a few years and I had to call my daughter to borrow the book, she is 31 now. We both shared memories and tears as we re-called Passover's past and the heartfelt meaning in the story. You are never too old to believe the Elijah will come one year to your house at Passover.