Book Release Party with Ruth Spiro and “One Small Spark”

Join us at The Book Stall on Sunday, September 22 at 2:00 PM, when we host award-winning children’s author Ruth Spiro! We will be celebrating her new book, One Small Spark: A Tikkun Olam Story!

In this inspiring picture book, a young girl explores the Jewish philosophy of tikkun olam and works to make a positive change in the world. This free program is aimed at ages four to adult. Registration is required. Click here to reserve your place!

Imagine the world you want to live in. If it’s not the world you see, will you create it?

So begins a young girl’s journey to solve a problem she notices one rainy day while walking to school. In that moment, the small spark inside her grows and connects her to others who are inspired to help the world become a better place. This lyrical and personal text from beloved author Ruth Spiro, with breathtaking and imaginative illustrations from Victoria Tentler-Krylov, explores the Jewish concept of tikkun olam, or taking part to repair the world. It’s sure to inspire readers to nurture their own small spark, taking action today that will change the world tomorrow.

In a starred review, Publishers Weekly says that illustrator “Tentler-Krylov . . . an exuberant, choreographic chronicler of city life, fills digitally enhanced watercolor spreads with bright colors and a host of energized, roll-up-their-sleeves characters . . ..” and adds, “Spiro . . . vividly evokes [tikkun olam]’s galvanizing power throughout.”

Ruth Spiro is the author of the popular Baby Loves Science series and the Made by Maxine series. Her other new book, How to Explain Robotics to a Grown-Up will be released on Sept. 17, 2024. (We’ll have copies of that on hand as well!) Ruth lives with her family in Chicago.