The Peddler's Gift

Written by Maxine Rose Schur
Illustrated by Kimberly Bulcken Root

When Shnook, the peddler, arrives in the sleepy town of Korovenko, young Leibush runs to meet him. Every peddler brings merriment to the village, but simple Shnook brings more laughs than any of them.

On this visit, Shnook’s wares include beautiful, hand-carved dreidels. Leibush can’t take his eyes off them! When Leibush notices one mistakenly left behind, he makes excuses for keeping the dreidel. It isn’t until Leibush makes amends that he learns the peddler’s simple ways might just be a cover for a wealth of wisdom and forgiveness. And when Hanukkah comes, Shnook leaves Leibush a gift to last a lifetime.

Acclaimed author Maxine Rose Schur’s dramatic story has a simple voice that speaks volumes about the depth of kindness and honor that can be found in unlikely places. Combined with Kimberly Bulcken Root’s expertly crafted and touching illustrations, The Peddler’s Gift will reach straight into your heart.

Winner of the Sydney Taylor Award, Smithsonian Notable Book of the Century, and Bank Street College of Education Best Children’s Book

“This nuanced portrait of shtetl life opens a window onto a lost world.” – Smithsonian Magazine

“This gentle story is written with a fine folkloric tone that evokes both the richness and simplicity of a time long past.” – School Library Journal

“Schur writes with poetic grace . . . with color and depth, making a painful incident poignant and underscoring some of life’s elusive lessons.” – San Francisco Chronicle

Hardcover
Ages 3-11 8.5″x8.5″