Miriam at the River Perfect Picture Book Friday

,A gorgeously written and illustrated retelling of the Bible story of Moses' miraculous escape, as seen through his sister, Miriam's, perspective.

text copyright Jane Yolen, 2020, illustrations copyright Khoa Le, 2020, Kar-Ben Publishing, 2020

Miriam's story comes to life in this beautiful, thought-provoking picture book. What happens when a law is evil or wrong--should it be followed and obeyed? That is the question seven-year-old Miriam must face, and her brave actions invite readers to consider what they would have done in her position. 

The author's rich, poetic language offers insight into Miriam's thoughts and foreshadows what's to come, while vivid illustrations gorgeously portray the transformation from darkness to light, as the sun rises, and Miriam chooses to save her baby brother's life. 

Title:  MIRIAM AT THE RIVER

Author:  Jane Yolen

Illustrator:  Khoa Le

Publisher:  Kar-Ben Publishing, 2020

Ages:  4-8

Themes:  Family, Courage, Sibling Relationships

Here are a few activities that align with the themes of this book:

• Pair this book with the original story in the Bible, found in Exodus 2:1-10.  
• Think about what this event must have been like for Miriam. Write a letter, or draw a picture, from Miriam to her little brother, telling about her experience.
• Think about what this event must have been like for Baby Moses. Draw a picture or write a story about what he might have experienced.
• Conversation starters:  "Which character in this story do you relate to most? Why?" "Should someone obey a law that is evil or wrong? Why or why not?" "Can you think of a time when you acted courageously? What did you do, and how did that make you feel?"

Looking for more perfect picture books? Check out Susanna Leonard Hill's website!