Wallmark, Laurie. Rivka’s Present. Illustrated by Adelina Lirius. Random House Studio, 2023. 978-0-593-48207-0. $18.99. 40 p. Grades K-3.
In 1918 on New York’s Lower East Side, Rivka enthusiastically proclaims to all who will hear that it is her first day of school. Heartbroken, Mama tells Rivka, that she cannot begin school. Papa has influenza, and Mama must work to support the family. Rivka must care for her little sister. Upset, Rivka tears out of the apartment, crashing into a sandwich board in front of the grocery store. Apologizing to the shop owner, Rivka admires the writing on the board, and asks the grocer to teach her how to write. Mr. Solomon carefully explains he is too busy to take on teaching Rivka how to write. But when Rivka bargains to help around the shop in exchange for writing lessons, Mr. Solomon agrees and even allows Rivka to bring her little sister along. Papa is no better, and Mama works long hours. By the time the leaves fall from the trees, Rivka knows her alphabet and can sound out basic words. While running an errand at the tailor’s shop, Rivka admires Mr. Cohen’s ledger of neat arithmetic. Offering to make deliveries in exchange for math lessons, Rivka quickly begins learning a new skill. Unfortunately, Papa has shown little improvement. When the first snow falls, Rivka helps a neighbor across the hall with baking and cleaning. She discovers that Mrs. Langholtz is studying to take her citizenship exam. Rivka politely asks Mrs. Langholtz to teach her about American history. By the time spring rolls around, Rivka can name the states and sing the anthem. One day Papa is well enough to join the family at the dinner table. As the flowers begin to blossom, Papa sends Rivka on an errand. When she returns to the apartment, she is surprised to find Mr. Solomon, Mr. Cohen, and Mrs. Langholtz, who have all arrived at the apartment for a party to honor Rivka and all of her hard work. Each neighbor brings Rivka a present that she will need to finally begin her first day of school.
THOUGHTS: Rivka is plucky and eager to learn. This is an adorable story about hard work and determination in the face of great challenges. Beautifully detailed painted illustrations by Adelina Lirius add to the wonder and delight as Rivka spends the seasons learning new skills.
Picture Book
