A 2023 Publishers Weekly Best Book of 2023 "This book is pure magic."--Maulik Pancholy, actor and Stonewall Honor-winning author The switcheroo fun of
The Parent Trap meets the showbiz spirit of
The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel in this timeless coming-of-age story about family, friendship, and following your dreams.
When Shira and Esther first meet, they can hardly believe their eyes. It's like looking in a mirror! But even though they may look identical, the two girls couldn't be more different. Shira dreams of singing and dancing onstage, but her father, a stern and pious rabbi, thinks Shira should be reading prayers, not plays. Esther dreams of studying Torah, but her mother, a glamorous stage performer, wishes Esther would spend more time rehearsing and less time sneaking off to read books.
Oy vey! If only the two could switch places . . .
Would Shira shine in a big-time televised talent show? Would Esther's bat mitzvah go off without a hitch? What's a little deception, when it means your dreams might finally be within reach? One thing is certain: Shira and Esther are going to need more than a little
chutzpah to pull this off. But if they do, their double dream debut is sure to be the performance of a lifetime.
★ "Adult readers may wish they were young again, so this could instantly become their favorite book." ―
Kirkus Reviews, starred review ★ "Readers will love this sparkling intergeneration ode to chutzpah and Jewish Joy."--
Publishers Weekly, starred review FUNNY AND HEARTFELT FRIENDSHIP BOOK: Brimming with heart and humor, this unforgettable novel from a compelling new voice in young adult literature will make readers laugh, cry, and come back for more knishes.
FAMILY, FRIENDS, AND COMMUNITY: Themes of connection, unity, and the need for belonging will resonate with readers of all backgrounds.
JEWISH COMING-OF-AGE: This book represents and celebrates many ways of being Jewish while also inviting non-Jewish readers to share in what makes the religion, culture, and community so wonderful.
BRILLIANT EXTRAS: At the back of the book, a guide to Yiddish words and an author's note on the research and inspiration behind the story invites learning and discussion.
Perfect for:
- Preteens and tweens looking for funny friendship books
- Parents, caregivers, educators, and librarians seeking Jewish children's books
- Jewish and bicultural readers
- Readers who enjoy young adult historical fiction books
- Readers interested in theater, acting, music, and the arts
- Hannukah gift, theater kid gift, or bat mitzvah gift for girls
