THE FAMILY WITH TWO FRONT DOORS

Hugely readable historical fiction in classic style: this warm and engaging story, inspired by the author’s own family, offers a glimpse into a life rich with tradition, celebration and love.

Meet the Rabinowitzes: mischievous Yakov, bubbly Nomi, rebellious Miriam, solemn Shlomo, and seven more! Papa is a rabbi and their days are full of intriguing rituals and adventures. But the biggest adventure of all is when big sister Adina is told she is to be married at the age of fifteen – to someone she has never met. Based on the author’s real family, the Rabinowitzes dance, laugh and cook their way through an extraordinary life in 1920s Poland. We join them for breakfast, and listen to the samovar bubbling while ten-year-old Nomi accidentally trails her long hair in the bowl of oily herring. We go shopping with them at the market, and watch eight-year-old Yakov struggle to carry home a huge fish. Day by intimate day, we follow them through the summer, until at last we reach the grand finale of Adina’s wedding. In the classic tradition, this highly readable story is fascinating, amusing and as warm as freshly baked bread. Anna Ciddor has made her name as a versatile writer and illustrator of fiction, travel and historical books for primary school children. Her Viking Magic fantasy series has earned her fans throughout the world.