The Miracle of the Matzah Pizza

Koffsky concocts a comically far-fetched origin story for matzo-crust pizza in this punny picture book. It’s day three of Passover when young Sammy becomes sick of eating matzo, and grand- father Zaydee offers a solution in the form of a tale and a recipe. Cut to ancient times: thick-lined cartooning shows Israelite boy Shmuel (“That’s my name in Hebrew!” Sammy notes) eating matzo during the exodus when a tomato from Miriam’s basket plops onto his flatbread. Talking cows “mooo-ving” to Israel provide milk that Moses uses his staff to turn into mozzarella cheese, and the hot sun bakes it to perfection. “And since it was a day of miracles,” Zaydee concludes, “there was enough for everyone.” Sammy recreates the pizza as the narrative unfolds, and it’s finished just in time for noshing by guests Miri and Moe (who resemble the flashback’s Miriam and Moses). Miracles come in many forms, including culinary ones, this playful Passover tale suggests. Characters are portrayed with various skin tones. Includes a note and recipe. Ages 4–10. (Feb.)