There's a new baby at Zachary's house and he is thrilled to be a big brother. Best of all, it's his sister's very first Shabbat, and today she will be welcomed into her Jewish faith community when her name is announced publicly for the first time. On the walk to the synagogue, Zachary, Mama and Mommy encounter many neighbors eager to meet the newest member of the family. "Want to come with us to her naming ceremony?" Zachary invites. Of course they all do, and of course we readers want to come, too!
Joyful Song is the type of book that fills your heart with happiness, and the illustrations by Susan Gal really make it glow. From the family's frisky dogs on a front cover bursting with new life (baby birds, butterflies, baby sister!) to the glorious abstract color brushstrokes of the final endpapers that echo the synagogue's stained glass windows, Gal uses a rainbow palate throughout to include all readers in this special day of celebration.
What name did the family choose for Zachary's baby sister? Read Joyful Song, and find out for yourself!
Joyful Song is a 2025 Caldecott Honor book and Sydney Taylor Book Award Silver Medalist. Read more about all the 2025 ALA Youth Media Award Winners here.