Review: Osnat and Her Dove
Osnat and Her Dove by Sigal Samuel, illustrated by Vali Mintzi Levine Querido Category: Picture Books Reviewer: Kathy Bloomfield Buy at Bookshop.org Lovely, engaging prose and gorgeous pictures relate the story of Osnat Barzani, considered the first female rabbi and first female Kurdish leader. While most of the book is historical fiction, because few of her writings are extant, the author has done an excellent job of transforming what little is available into a powerful story of wisdom, courage and miracles. Starting with Osnat’s childhood, moving through her marriage and culminating in her rise to Rosh Yeshiva (Head of the School) of her father’s house of study, details of her strength of character, her passion for Torah study, and her care for the students and communities she served abound. The artwork reflects the Sephardic community in Iraq with deep colors and strong lines, bringing the story to life in bold and attractive ways. This gorgeous book has everything it needs to be a