The narrative follows Zissel, who, despite her newfound wealth and desire for luxurious jewelry, finds herself increasingly unhappy. This humorous yet poignant Jewish folk tale by Maxine Rose Schur highlights the irony of longing for more while overlooking the abundance already present in one's life. Through Zissel's journey, the story conveys a heartfelt message about contentment and the true essence of happiness.
Maxine Schur Book order
This author crafts captivating children's books that celebrate the power of words and feature inspiring historical figures and vibrant settings. Their work, often exploring Jewish culture and history, is celebrated for its ability to engage young readers and ignite their imaginations. Through compelling narratives and beautiful illustrations, this author encourages discovery and a deeper appreciation for the world through literature.






- 2023
- 2023
The Word Dancer
- 210 pages
- 8 hours of reading
A young orphan named Wynnfrith must protect the five-year-old crown prince, Oliver, after traitors seize control of the kingdom of Wisland. Together, they embark on a perilous journey to escape the ruthless Ugsome family. Despite her fears, Wynnfrith's resolve to keep Oliver safe drives them through danger and uncertainty, highlighting themes of bravery and loyalty in the face of adversity.
- 2023
The Circlemaker
- 204 pages
- 8 hours of reading
Set against the backdrop of Czar Nicholas's regime, the story follows the families of Molovsk as they grapple with the harsh reality of a 25-year military conscription for their sons. The narrative delves into the emotional turmoil and societal pressures faced by these families, exploring themes of duty, sacrifice, and the impact of authoritarian rule on individual lives.
- 2022
The story centers on a fisherman and his wife who discover a baby girl in their net, fulfilling their dream of parenthood. As Merella grows, she harbors a deep, secret yearning that ultimately forces her adoptive parents to confront a heart-wrenching choice. The narrative explores themes of love, sacrifice, and the complexities of identity, highlighting the emotional struggles of both the parents and their daughter.
- 2022
The Peddler's Gift
- 36 pages
- 2 hours of reading
The arrival of Shnook the peddler in the quiet town of Korovenko sparks joy, especially for young Leibush, who eagerly greets him. Unlike other peddlers, Shnook is known for his unique ability to bring laughter and merriment to the villagers, making his visits a special occasion filled with joy and humor.
- 2021
The book showcases the bustling activities of animals from A to Z, inviting readers to explore their lively world. Each page features a different animal, highlighting their unique behaviors and interactions, making it an engaging and educational experience for young readers. Perfect for sparking curiosity and learning about the animal kingdom in a fun and interactive way.
- 2020
Navigating a grand garden maze, princes and princesses encounter unexpected challenges on their quest for true love. The intricacies of the maze symbolize the complexities of romance, highlighting the obstacles that often arise in relationships. This whimsical setting adds a unique twist to the classic theme of love's trials and tribulations.
- 2020
Gullible Gus
- 52 pages
- 2 hours of reading
Gus, a gullible cowboy, believes everything he hears, making him the target of teasing from other cowboys. His sadness prompts Doc Hickory to take him to Fibrock, a town notorious for its liars. There, Gus hopes to learn from the biggest fibber how to discern truth from falsehood. The story explores themes of gullibility and the nature of truth, highlighting Gus's journey to understanding the fine line between reality and deception.
- 2019
Recognized as a 2020 Notable Social Studies Trade Book for Young People, this title offers engaging insights into important social issues, making it an educational resource for young readers. It combines compelling narratives with informative content, encouraging critical thinking and fostering an understanding of diverse perspectives. The book is designed to spark curiosity and inspire discussions about society, culture, and history among its audience.
- 2017
Marielle in Paris
- 36 pages
- 2 hours of reading
Marielle the mouse has worked her dressmaking magic for nine days and nine nights to create nine beautiful dresses for Madame Sooree's nine daughters. Finished at last, Marielle goes to bed, but when she wakes up, the dresses are gone! With no time to lose, Marielle must overcome her fear of heights to take a wild ride with her friend Pierre the pigeon to recover the missing party dresses, which have been scattered across Paris.