New book tells story of a bunny’s bedtime routine – the Jewish way!
Sheryl Haft's Goodnight Bubbala is a “joyful” parody of Margaret Wise Brown’s literary essential first published 70 years ago
Francine Wolfisz is the Features Editor for Jewish News.
Forget the red balloon, the bowl of mush and the two playful kittens in the corner of bunny’s bedroom, because perennial children’s favourite, Goodnight Moon, has now been given a very yiddishe update.
Goodnight Bubbala by Sheryl Haft and illustrated by Jill Weber is a “joyful” parody of Margaret Wise Brown’s literary essential first published 70 years ago and tells the story of a bunny’s bedtime routine – the Jewish way.
Instead of curtains drawn and whispers of quiet and calm, this little bunny can look forward to the whole family getting involved, plus dancing, kvelling and a bit of noshing.
As Haft writes: “In the small blue room there was a bubbala and a little shmatta, and then – oy vey! – came the whole mishpacha!”
Turn the page and there’s a chaotic scene with “two little bubbies schlepping their hubbies,” as well as an array of cousins and siblings and hip-looking parents; a mishmash of pots of kneidel and latkes and bagels.
After the bunny bubbala welcomes the rowdy parade of family, food and music into the room, the story tenderly ends with an appreciation for the things and people in its life by telling them ‘goodnight.’ “I love the idea that I’ve given a little bit of joy to an adult and a child, even if it’s just for a few minutes,” says Haft.
Goodnight Bubbala by Sheryl Haft is published by Penguin Random House USA, priced £14.27 (hardback). Available now.
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