Big Girl! (ילדה גדולה)

by Nira Harel
My rating: 5 of 5 stars



Category: Boardbook (available in Hebrew only)

Hebrew Title: ילדה גדולה

Author’s Name in Hebrew: נירה הראל

Age: 1-3+ years

Synopsis: In this follow-up to “Abba! Abba!” (!אבא! אבא), author Nira Harel has captured in well-written rhyme the emerging independence of toddlerhood. Adorably independent toddler Roni has blossomed into a “big girl” (ילדה גדולה) who is no longer interested in riding in her stroller, despite her father’s gentle requests.

Bilingual benefit: Like “Abba! Abba!” (!אבא! אבא), this gem of a picture book is a wonderful introduction to Hebrew for a toddler. The Hebrew in this book rhymes well and has vowels for new or non-native Hebrew speakers. The brightly-colored illustrations depict scenes from daily life in Tel Aviv, including taking a stroll by Yaacov Agam’s (יעקב אגם) famous multi-colored water fountain (מים ואש) at Dizengoff Square. The pictures also echo the charm of the postcards, posters, and illustrations of the city from the early 20th century.

Availability in Israel: This Hebrew language book is available in Israel in independent bookstores and the major chains, Steimatzky and Tzomet Sfarim.

Previewing the book: As this book was just published this year, I have not yet found any significant excerpts of the book on English language websites. However, a Google search of the book’s ISBN or its title accompanied by the author’s name in Hebrew (נירה הראל ילדה גדולה) will yield a few excerpts in Hebrew from the book.

Lil guy: Emphatically agrees with Roni’s responses to her father’s requests. Loves the illustrations.

Mama: Highly recommended. My hubby took this book as proof that we are not alone in our struggle to persuade our lil guy to ride in his stroller. The illustrations alone should make the book a new classic. I would buy this again and for a friend.

See all my reviews on books available in Israel. See all my reviews of books that received 5 of 5 stars. More information about Ms. Harel is available here in English and here in Hebrew.

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