Illustrated by Victoria Tentler-Krylov / Published by Dial Books for Young Readers
★ Publisher’s Weekly Starred Review!
★ Kirkus Starred Review!
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 then connects her to others who are inspired to make a change and help the world become a better place.
This lyrical and very 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 young readers to nurture their own small spark, taking action today that will change the world tomorrow.
Awards & Lists for One Small Spark
Society of Midland Authors Award for Children’s Fiction
National Education Association & NEA’s Read Across America Recommended Title
The Institute for Social & Emotional Learning Recommended Resource
Reviews for One Small Spark!
★ “Spiro vividly evokes [tikkun olam]’s galvanizing power throughout.” — Publishers Weekly, starred review
★ “A stunning reminder that we all have the power to make the world a better place.” — Kirkus, starred review
“A lovely picture book sure to inspire the youngest changemakers to create the world they want to live in” — School Library Journal
“Her tone combines logic with feelings, encouraging young readers to trust their own perceptions and to think where they might lead.” — Jewish Book Council
“One Small Spark is an ode to positive transformation, an affirming book that’s just right for its young audience.” — BookPage
“A charming book for all libraries.” — Association of Jewish Libraries
“A shining light of hope and empowerment in dark times” —Judith Magazine
“A spectacular, deeply moving picture book…this book is a magnificent reminder of how even the simplest acts of kindness can be transformative” — Wisconsin Jewish Journal
“… the concept of tikkun olam is not unique to Judaism, though the book is presented from a Jewish perspective. Everyone, no matter their religion, race, or otherwise, is capable of tikkun olam. It only has to be accessed within ourselves.” —YA and Kids’ Books Central
“A lovely, lyrical picture book” — Book Riot
“Empowering…One Small Spark will help many young readers, their families, and their communities to light their own small sparks” — The Sydney Taylor Schmooze
“…absolutely worth sharing with the kids in your life to help turn them into mensches.” —Book of Life
Press
Publishers Weekly: Altruism in Action: Educators Teach the Power of Giving Through Doing
JUF News/Jewish Chicago Magazine: Kid-size Tikkun Olam
Betsy Bird’s Fuse #8 31 Lists for 31 Days
Book of Life Podcast: One Small Spark & More Than Enough
Jewish Books for Kids: Interview with Ruth Spiro
School Library Journal/Fuse #8: Interview with Ruth Spiro
Nerdy Book Club Essay: The Universe in a Glass of Water by Ruth Spiro
New Books Network Podcast: Interview with Ruth Spiro