Review: Mr. Katz and Me
Mr. Katz and Me by Marc Kornblatt, illustrated by Nanette Regan Apples & Honey Press (imprint of Behrman House Publishers), 2024 Category: Picture Books Reviewer: Merle Eisman Carrus Buy at Bookshop.org Mr. Katz and Me is wonderful story about friendship. Sarah is the daughter of a b’nai mitzvah tutor. Her father lets her listen in as he tutors the many students who come through their home preparing for their special day. When a new student comes for his first lesson, Sarah is surprised to see he is an older man. At first Sarah is not very understanding or friendly to Mr. Katz. As the lessons continue Sarah joins Mr. Katz and learns how special he is. Growing up in Russia, he had to hide his religious affiliation, but now at the age of eighty one he is excited to become a bar mitzvah. Sarah and Mr. Katz become friends as he continues coming to the house for tutoring. She learns that patience and understanding about other people can lead to true friendship. The age difference makes