Slow Down, Shoshi! It’s Shabbat in Uganda

K-Gr 3–This vibrant picture book offers a warm glimpse into the Abayudaya Jewish community in Eastern Uganda. Young Shoshi and her grandfather spend the day harvesting and preparing coffee beans to sell at market so they can buy food for Shabbat. But when they return home, Shoshi is disappointed because she forgot to buy candles for the holiday. Her family improvises with oil candles, and afterwards they join other families for a joyful Shabbat service. Nambi, herself a member of the Abayudaya community, draws from her own childhood experiences to tell a story that blends everyday life with spiritual tradition. Yogev’s colorful, expressive illustrations bring the setting and characters to life, perfectly capturing Shoshi’s energy and emotion. A brief author’s note provides valuable context on the history of the Abayudaya Jews. This engaging and heartfelt narrative provides a unique window into a lesser-known Jewish community, making it a valuable addition to collections looking to broaden cultural representation.