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New Board Book From URJ PRESS Purim!, the new book for toddlers and pre-schoolers by critically acclaimed author/illustrator Camille Kress, has just been published by the URJ PRESS. Through her vibrant watercolors and engaging prose, Kress captures the "light and gladness, happiness and honor" of Purim while explaining that it is a fun holiday celebrating when the Jewish people were saved. "In Jewish children's literature today, there's simply no one like Camille Kress," said Kenneth Gesser, URJ PRESS publisher. "The UAHC is thrilled to have discovered her as a children's author, and we're proud to have published her other popular board books, Tot Shabbat and Let There Be Lights!, which have taught so many youngsters about their Jewish heritage." Kress tells the story by showing children in a Purim play, with each illustration framed by a different stage and proscenium. At the end, when Esther and Mordecai prevail over the King and Haman, the children take off their play beards, spin groggers, and share hamentashen. In addition to reading the text of Purim! aloud to children, parents and teachers can add to this learning experience by pointing out the Hebrew words in the illustrations as well as the familiar images of groggers, hamentashen, crowns, and the Star of David. "Everything I do now is inspired by my children," explained Camille Kress, who has changed the focus of her professional work since the birth of her children Caleb and Molly. "And if you look closely on the last page, you'll see that I hid the letters 'M' and 'C' for them to find." Kress is currently at work on a board book about Passover for the URJ PRESS; it's scheduled for release next year. The URJ PRESS is part of the Union of American Hebrew Congregations, the central body of Reform Judaism in North America, uniting 1.5 million Reform Jews in 880 synagogues. UAHC services include camps, music and book publishing, outreach to unaffiliated and intermarried Jews, and educational programs. Items from the URJ PRESS can be ordered toll free at 1-888-489-UAHC or through the website at http://www.URJPress.com. ### (2/99)
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