- ASIN: B09VTK144D
- Publisher: Black Rose Writing (June 2, 2022)
- Publication date: June 2, 2022
- Language: English
- Genre: Children’s Mystery & Detective Books
The BookViral Review:
David Shawn Klein’s first foray into the world of children’s literature is an appealing fusion of fun and instruction and colour – both physically and metaphorically – with ‘Sherlock Mendelson and the missing Afikomen’ delivering an immersive and fascinating reading experience. Impressively blending culture, religion and family ties in a beautifully and hilariously illustrated story.
Set on Passover night, the story features the intrepid tender aged but aptly named ‘Sherlock Mendelson’, who with his faithful side-kick, Watson (of course!) sets out to solve the mystery of the missing Afikomen. Packed with interesting detail in both story-telling and illustrations, we are introduced to the extended family, who, with Klein’s expert narration, come to life before our eyes. Complimented exquisitely by Bridget Star Taylor’s amusing traditionally executed artwork, Klein cleverly frames his characters using hilarious personality quirks and snippets of back story, creating a warm and cosy family atmosphere as a foundation to the ‘great mystery’.
Though purposefully designed to explain Passover traditions and the background behind them, this beautiful story is neither dogmatic nor proselytizing. Rather, it gives an inclusive and open invitation to learn about Jewish culture, its traditions and its wonderful family ties. It also offers an opportunity for young ones of the Jewish faith to read and learn about their inherited faith in a fun and engaging way.
Furthermore, this lovely story offers plentiful opportunities to linger. Each character is expertly developed, including my personal favourite, the indispensable bloodhound, ‘Watson’, with his ever wagging tail! Each page is packed with opportunities to explore and to laugh; promising to be a tale that will be returned to over and over again.
A fine addition to both personal and public collections, ‘Sherlock Mendelson and the missing Afikomen’ promises to be a firm favourite with readers eagerly anticipating the publication of the other ‘diabolical crimes’, A five star read, it is unreservedly recommended!