Lazy Shlemazel is convinced he has no luck. But Moshke the tinker promises him that his luck will change if he sets to work using the “amazing, remarkable spoon of Pohost.” Shlemazel gets busy—tilling the poretz’s field, helping the miller, and baking cakes with pretty Chaya Massel. Although “luck” remains elusive, what Shlemazel does find is even better.
Lively Chagall-like illustrations capture the spirit of this traditional Jewish tale, a funny and thought-provoking look at how we make our own luck. Author’s note, glossary.
About the Author
Ann Redisch Stampler
Ann Redisch Stampler based her two books for Clarion on stories from her grandmother, who was born in Belarus and moved to the United States as a young girl. Ms. Stampler lives in Los Angeles, California, with her husband and children.
Excerpts
Reviews
"Employing a lively Yiddish cadence, the text is a storyteller's delight, full of humor, hyperbole, and delicious adjectives." School Library Journal
"Stampler's sweet tale of success will resonate with children...here's hoping [author and illustrator] continue to work together." Kirkus Reviews
"With its wry twist on the trickster tradition, this story...will be great for storytelling." Booklist, ALA
"Colorful folkloric illustrations tilt and swing across the page, perfectly complementing the well-told tale." Horn Book Guide