Ella is on the cusp of the tween years – just starting to be concerned with issues of cliques, embarrassing siblings and even-more embarrassing parents. This book captures that insecurity without plunging into the sturm und drang<\/em> of popular young adult fiction. My only critique is that sometimes I felt the “Jewish” parts of the story weren’t woven in as seamlessly as many of the other themes. I suspect that I this was a result of an editor’s insistence that Erica add explanations to the Yiddish and cultural references. But it very nicely introduces an issue that Ella has no real experience of – not fitting in because you are Jewish. And, it’s quite funny.<\/p>\n Here’s Erica’s book trailer. While we are on the topic of book trailers, did I mention I’m struggling to make one for my new book The Shabbat Princess, coming out in September? It’s a lot harder than it looks, so I have great appreciation for Erica’s work. And after watching, don’t forget to weigh in on your recommendations. Thanks!<\/p>\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/wp-media.beliefnet.com\/sites\/86\/2011\/05\/OJ-150x150.jpg\")
<\/a>To get the ball rolling, I’ve got one of my own. I had the privilege of meeting Erica Perl when I went to NYC for the Jewish Book Council author event. She has a new novel called When Life Gives You OJ<\/a>, about an eleven year old Jewish girl, Zelly, who is struggling to fit in after her family moves from Brooklyn to Vermont. More than anything, Zelly wants a dog, so her yiddish-spouting, eccentric, and very lovable grandfather concocts a scheme to help her convince her reluctant parents. It involves a jug of OJ, \u00a0a leash, and some very creative simulated dog-poop.<\/p>\n