1. The Secret Seder
By Doreen Rappaport, Emily Arnold McCully (Illus.)
"Written from the point of view of a French boy whose family is forced to hide their Jewish faith, the story pays tribute to bravery and the proud celebration of religious tradition in the face of horrific acts of genocide. Well-written and featuring beautiful illustrations, this book is terrific." -- Jan Loveland, Cranesbill Books, Chelsea, MI

 

2. The Little Rabbit That Wanted Red Wings
By Carolyn Sherwin Bailey, Jacqueline Rogers (Illus.)
"A rabbit who wants to have beautiful red wings like a cardinal is granted his wish -- but discovers that everything is not as wonderful as he had imagined. This is a sweet story with a wonderful message for all of us." -- Terry Dallas, Armchair Books, Pendleton, OR

3. The Golden Egg Book
By Margaret Wise Brown, Leonard Weisgard (Illus.)
"Margaret Wise Brown tells the story of a bunny who learns that an egg won't hatch till it's ready. This classic story is as bright and sweet and wholesome as a child's Easter should be, and it's charmingly illustrated by Leonard Weisgard." -- Laura Huemer, Goldfinch Books, Maplewood, NJ

4. The Day Christ Died
By Jim Bishop
"Written in a 'you are there' format, this book enables readers to accompany Christ hour-by-hour on the last day of his earthly life. The author has included information about the Roman world that allows us to understand the political and physical environment in which these events happened. Bishop's book helps strengthen our own faith and help us appreciate the real meaning of Easter." -- Elizabeth Hamilton, Portland State Bookstore, Portland, OR

 

 

5. The Bunny Who Found Easter
By Charlotte Zolotow, Helen Craig (Illus.)
"This is the sweet story of a lonely bunny on a quest. It's tender and warm, with charming illustrations. A perfect read-aloud!" -- Jacqueline Sams, Bound to be Read, Albuquerque, NM

 

 

6. Mary, Called Magdalene: A Novel
By Margaret George
"This is a great read for Easter and Passover, as much of the first part of the novel focuses on Jewish rituals and Passover. With the growing interest in Mary sparked by The Da Vinci Code, Margaret George offers her usual well-researched, and very readable, theories about Mary." -- Rona Brinlee, The Book Mark, Atlantic Beach, FL

 

 

7. Miriam's Cup: A Passover Story
By Fran Manushkin, Bob Dacey (Illus.)
"This is a beautifully illustrated children's book that tells the story of Miriam, sister of Moses, and of her courage and faith. In this retelling of the Passover story, the role of Miriam is emphasized, as is the joyful nature of the celebration." -- Terry Lucas, The Open Book, Westhampton Beach, NY

 

 

8. The Inner Experience: Notes on Contemplation
By Thomas Merton
"This book offers a glimpse into the life of a contemplative. A perfect book to read and think upon during the Lenten season. It is a wonderful addition to the Merton canon." -- Jack Gillard, Shaman Drum Bookshop, Ann Arbor, MI

 

 

9. Exodus
By Brian Wildsmith
"Exodus is a great book for Passover and is beautifully illustrated with colors of desert orange, green, and beige with a touch of gold to make it truly elegant." -- Gussie Lewis, Tree Top Toys and Books, Washington, DC

 

 

10. How Do You Know It's Easter?
By Dian Curtis Regan, Fumi Kosaka (Illus.)
"We like to give this book as a welcome alternative to candy in the basket for a little one. You can also read it for a quick snuggle up with mom as the days count down. The lift-the-flaps make it all the more enticing for the toddler set." -- Valerie Koehler, Blue Willow Bookshop, Houston, TX