Boris and Stella and the Perfect Gift

By: Dara Goldman
Publisher: Sleeping Bear Press
Publication Date: September 2013
ISBN: 978-1585368594
Reviewed by: Ellen Feld
Review Date: October 8, 2013

Boris and Stella are the BEST of friends! They both like hats, scary movies, and enjoy each other’s company. Stella loves to listen as Boris plays his music, and Boris LOVES the cakes that Stella makes in her bakery. While Boris grew up in Russia and Stella’s family came from Italy, that fact only helps make their relationship more interesting. They are best friends forever.

As the holidays approach, Stella knows that she wants to give Boris a special present for Hanukkah. Checking her piggy bank, she is saddened to discover that she only has a few coins. How can she buy a special present with so little money? All she has is her pine tree that came from Italy to remind her of her family. At the same time, Boris is trying to figure out what to get Stella for Christmas. He, too, wants to find the absolutely perfect gift for his best friend. Alas, his little savings bank is just as empty as Stella’s. Whatever will he do? All he has is his collection of beautiful dreidels.

Reminiscent of O. Henry’s The Gift of the Magi (one of my favorite short stories), Boris and Stella show what true love is as they decide to part with items dear to their hearts in order to bring joy to another. The author/illustrator, Dara Goldman, has done an outstanding job of retelling a famous story so that children can grasp the true meaning. Her illustrations perfectly compliment the story, with their bright colors and expressive characters. I love everything about this book and belive it is the PERFECT present for the holiday season.

Quill says: The perfect gift for a family that celebrates Christmas and Hanukkah, as well as anybody who enjoys the holidays. Peace, love and hugs, what can be better than that?