Children’s Books

Star Brother

When a science genius and foster kid learns he has a brother, that’s surprising enough, but when his brother reveals a secret so bizarre and unbelievable…

Ages 13-18
Awards: 2025 Silver Falchion Award for Best YA Mystery
Snowy Wings Publishing 2024
Paperback: ISBN 9781958051580

Jason is a 16-year-old science genius, yet he’s a lonely, emotionally-guarded kid. He has no friends and he wouldn’t dare let his classmate Melanie know how much he loves her.  Shunted from one foster home to another, Jason yearns for family. When he learns he has a brother that’s surprising enough but when his brother reveals a secret so bizarre, so unbelievable Jason rejects him. Yet fate throws the brothers together, propelling them on a cross-country road trip, an adventure-filled journey that turns into a perilous race against time to save another family member from imminent death.

With elements of science fiction, thriller, romance and mystery, Star Brother is, at heart, a heart-rending portrayal of an adolescent yearning to express feelings, find family, and to love.

If you loved Percy Jackson, Wonder, or Keeper of the Lost Cities, you’ll love Star Brother.

I think this is a fun YA, and an unusual one. I was able to see it as a movie in my head, which makes me know that you built a strong world that readers can lose themselves in. Huzzah!
—Deborah Halverson, author of Writing Young Adult Fiction for Dummies

It’s a page turner…the book ultimately succeeds in combining science fiction elements with a heartfelt storyline. A wild ride with plenty of heart.
–Kirkus Reviews

 “…a thoughtful and heartfelt exploration of human relationships and the complex dynamics that make us who we are. With suspenseful twists, strong character development, and a balance of lighthearted moments and deep emotional reflection, Star Brother is a compelling read for fans of young adult fiction, science fiction, and adventure. It offers an introspective look at the trials of adolescence and the power of family bonds, no matter how unconventional they may be.” —Review Tales

The narration is engaging, with natural conversations and an unpredictable plotline. Each chapter ends on a cliffhanger which will leave readers craving more. Overall, Star Brother is a wonderful story that explores the complexities of relationships and the struggle for connection amidst adversity.
– Readers’ Favorite (5-Star Review)

Sacred Shadows

When Lena meets Janusz, she must make a choice that will alter their future forever.

Ages: 11-16
Awards: 1998 National Jewish Book Award Finalist 
1998 Notable Book for a Global Society by the International Reading Association 
1998 Notable Book in the Field of Social Studies  
1998 Notable Book for a Global Society by the International Reading Association 
1998 Society of School Librarians International Book Award, (Honor Book) 
1998 Young Hoosiers Award Nominee
Dial Books for Young Readers
Penguin hardcover1997, paperback 2005
ISBN: 978-0803722958

When her German hometown becomes part of Poland after World War I, Lena, a young German Jew, struggles to come to terms with the anti-Semitism and anti-German hatred that is growing around her. When Lena meets Janusz, a young idealist at the forefront of a new movement, Lena begins to see the truth about the changes in her country and she must make a choice that will alter their future forever.

Exquisitely rendered – The Horn Book

A moving story, exquisitely told… a novel with the ring of authenticity as well as artistry – The Contra Costa Times

The magic of this book lies in the remarkable writing style of the author whose depiction of time and place is so vivid that you walk the streets and recognize the people. A moving, beautifully written account of a little-known time – Children’s Literature.

Hannah Szenes: A Song of Light

The true tragic story of a young girl who gave her life in struggle to save the doomed Jews of Europe.

Ages: 11-16
Awards: 1987 National Jewish Book Award Finalist
The Jewish Publication Society, 1987, revised and reprinted in paperback 1999
ISBN 0827606621

Written with the support of Hannah Szene’s family, friends and fellow paratroopers, this is a powerful, poignant biography of the acclaimed poet and World War II resistance fighter, Hannah Szenes. The book eloquently captures the spirit of the young woman who lived and died for her ideals.

Heart-piercing and soul-searing –International Jewish Herald

A compelling biography –The Los Angeles Times

The Word Dancer

From the mysterious Word Dancer, Wynnfrith learns the importance of using both head and heart to ignite the full power of words.

Ages 8-12
Awards: 2023 Northern Lights Book Award for Best Middle Grade Fantasy Novel. + Honorable Mention-Reader’s Favorite Competition, Fantasy-Sci-Fi Category
Snowy Wings Publishing 2023
Hardback: ISBN 9781958051023
Paperback: ISBN 9781958051030

When the Ugsome traitors take over the kingdom of Wisland, Wynnfrith must flee the court with the little crown prince. Their flight becomes a treacherous journey that pits Wynnfrith against the cruel Ugsomes. She thinks herself fearful yet her determination to keep Prince Oliver safe impels her trials bravely.

With imaginative fantasy, fresh dialogue and original verse, this suspenseful tale is laced with humor and wordplay for The Word Dancer is at heart, a celebration of the power and beauty of words.

Out of hundreds of entries your book stood out. We are confident it will stand the test of time, and children will enjoy your story for generations to come. Thank you for the enchanted time you gave our judges.
– Northern Lights Book Award

At the story’s heart is the fascinating figure of The Word Dancer, a magical man who always sees the truth within turbulent situations and bestows a single word of importance to be interpreted by both head and heart. As Wynnfrith and Oliver journey through the kingdom, meeting a variety of friends, foes, and even the Word Dancer, they discover the importance of language and the power of words.
Wynnfrith’s quest moves quickly on the page and will captivate young readers and ignite their sense of adventure. The importance of language becomes paramount to Wynnfrith’s journey, as Schur crafts the story to emphasize the great influence that words can have on how we perceive and are perceived. As the children face their trials, including moral lessons sprinkled throughout, Schur weaves into the plot strong themes of inner-strength and righteousness, universal ideals that play pivotal roles in Wynnfrith’s personal growth and offer encouragement to readers. Knowledge and respect for the written word also is presented as something of a power. A map of the Kingdom of Wisland is conveniently provided for young readers to help visualize the vast land. Middle-grade readers looking for a bit of whimsy and adventure will enjoy this quick-paced fantasy that presents reading itself as part of a hero’s growth.
–Editor’s Pick: Publishers Weekly–BookLife

Schur’s fantasy is masterfully plotted, depicting the tale of 12-year-old Wynnfrith in the court of King Goodliwink. The setting is glittering with intrigue and mystique, and readers will be enthralled by Wynnfrith’s transformation. The prose shimmers, and Schur deftly fences with wordplay and imagery that perfectly match the story’s tone. The Word Dancer is lyrical and propulsive, brimming with amusing and innovative ideas.
–Publisher’s Weekly Book Life Prize–Judge’s report

Although fueled by a fast-paced, action-packed storyline, it’s the edifying themes (compassion, acceptance, etc.) and lessons learned by the two youngsters that make this such a memorable read. The power of the written word—in both songs and poetic incantations—is a valuable lesson for young readers. Peache says it aptly, “Words can do everything.”A page-turning fantasy adventure for kids that enlightens, entertains, and, ideally, empowers.
–Kirkus Book Reviews

The Word Dancer offers poetry expertly integrated into a riveting children’s story so fluidly that it dictates the pace of the story. What stands out the most with this interesting mix of poetry and prose is the lyrical descriptions used for almost everything of interest. The result is a visually attractive story that is intent on holding a child’s attention throughout. The Word Dancer exudes the promise of a delightful reading experience waiting to happen.
–Readers’ Favorite

“Oftentimes in medieval books, there’s too much clashing and not enough thinking, but the Word Dancer changes that, using his masterful wordplay to take the “s” from swords, leaving him with something far more powerful. I would recommend this book to an audience of readers aged 8-12, who enjoy classic books set in medieval times, with a hint of fantasy. If you love Redwall, Robin Hood, or stories about King Arthur, then you’ll love this book!
–Readers’ Views

“The Word Dancer is a darling of a book! I didn’t expect to be swept away by a middle grade book as quickly as I was, yet once I sat down to start it, I had no choice but to read the entire story in one sitting! It feels so much like a fairytale; the fast pace of the story, the bite-sized chapters, the witty dialogue, and the almost parable style of presenting greater themes just felt so familiar and cozy. The writing style instantly transports you into their world... Teachers, you need to this one!”
–Literature Approved

The Circlemaker

Based on meticulous historical research, The Circlemaker tells the exciting story of a boy fleeing the forced conscription of Jewish children in Russia in the year 1854.

Ages: 4th through 6th grade
Awards: 1994 American Booksellers “Pick of the Lists”
1996-97 Mark Twain Award nominee
Winner of the 1994 Louis B. Dessauer Award
Winner of the Society of Children’s Book Writers Work-in-Progress Grant. 
Genre: Historical novel
Lawley Publishing 2023, Dial Books, Penguin USA, 1994,
ISBN 0-8037-1354-1

“Atmospheric and suspenseful… maintaining an edge-of-the-seat tension until the very last words.”
– Publishers Weekly (starred review)

“An exciting story of terror and disguise, of leaving home and outwitting the enemy.”
– Booklist

“Taut and tender…pages seem to turn themselves.
– San Francisco Chronicle

Gullible Gus

Cowboy Gus believes everything the other cowboys tell him, but to cure his terrible case of gullibility, Gus visits Fibrock, a town full of liars…

Ages 6-10
Awards: 2009 Junior Library Guild Selection
2010 Mom’s Choice Award
2009 Foreword Reviews Book of the Year
Illustrated by Andrew Glass
Lawley Publishing 2020
Clarion Books, Houghton Mifflin 2009
ISBN 978061892710-4

Poor Cowboy Gus! He believes everything the other cowboys tell him, so he gets teased all the time. To cure his terrible case of gullibility, Gus visits Fibrock, a town full of liars. There he encounters Hokum Malarkey, who tells him three outrageous stories—while relieving him of all his money. But Gus doesn’t mind. If he can honestly say the words “I don’t believe it,” he’ll be cured forever.

With extravagant humor and lively language, Maxine Schur presents three tall tales within a frame story, each one just right for the chapter-book audience. Andrew Glass’s hilarious illustrations perfectly depict the hapless hero and the other larger-than-life characters that populate these wild and woolly adventures.

This darn good yarn will have kids galloping through the pages.
–Kirkus Review

Andrew Glass provides a fine set of color drawings for this excellent chapter book. –Midwest Book Review

Schur’s wildly extravagant humor makes these tales jump right up and tickle the reader’s funny bone. The funniest book on the shelf.
–Parenting on the Peninsula

When I Left my Village

Ages 8-11
Awards: 1994 American Booksellers “Pick of the Lists”
1996 Notable Book in the Field of Social Studies
1996 Bay Area Book Reviewers Award Nominee
Winner of the 1996 Sugarman Family Award
Winner of the 1996 Sydney Taylor Award
Illustrated by Brian Pinkney
Dial Books/Penguin-Random House 1995
ISBN 0803715617

Sequel to Day of Delight, this is the wrenching story of an Ethiopian Jewish family’s perilous escape to the Sudan in the mid-1980s and their miraculous airlift rescue by the Israelis. Beautifully illustrated by Caldecott Award winner, Brian Pinkney.

Brave with Beauty

Making the world more beautiful: A remarkable life of courage of Queen Goharshad.

Ages 7-10
Awards: A Notable Social Studies Trade Book for Young People
2020 Best Picture Book- Northern California Book Reviewers Association
Illustrated by Patricia Grush, Robin Dewitt, Golsa Yaghoobi
Sambasivan & Parikh Publishing 2019
ISBN 978-1-949528-97-8

Through one woman’s passion, Afghanistan was once a haven of learning and surpassing beauty. This is the extraordinary story of Queen Goharshad, a 15th-century monarch, who many historians now believe was one of the most powerful women in world history. Ruling from the Timurid artistic and cultural center of Herat in western Afghanistan, Queen Goharshad ushered in a period when poetry, music, calligraphy, painting, and the sciences flourished as never before. This story is a celebration of a remarkable woman—talented, generous, benevolent, and brave—whose achievements are an inspiration for young readers to use their strengths to make the world a more beautiful place

Watch the trailer. Listen to Book of Life Podcast.

A pleasant, romanticized introduction to an impressive person, place, and time for young readers beginning to like stories about real people. – School Library Journal

Beautiful, detailed artwork, showcasing the true-life efforts of a talented, noble, and compassionate ruler who strove to leave her world a better place than when she found it. Brave with Beauty is educational, inspirational, and highly recommended, especially for school and public library nonfiction picture book collections. 
–Midwest Book Review

This wonderful story of Queen Goharshad, who was a 15th-century monarch, is inspiring. Parents and teachers can open discussions about art, music, cultures, and the history of Afghanistan. The book’s back pages have a glossary, an author’s note, and an educator’s guide. The lovely illustrations show the beauty and history of the story. – Kristi’s Book Nook

Samantha’s Surprise

Ages 7-10
Mattel-American Girls
Illustrations by Dan Andreason
ISBN 0-937295-86-8

Samantha has big plans for a wonderful Christmas but after Uncle Gard announces he’s bringing the elegant Cornelia home for the holidays, things start to go wrong. Everyone is too busy to help Samantha with her Christmas plans and Samantha blames Cornelia for ruining the holidays. But Christmas morning brings surprises, awareness, and a change of heart.

Film: Samantha: An American Girl Holiday
Warner Bros/American Girl, 2004
Produced by Julia Roberts
Based on the Samantha stories by Maxine Rose Schur, Susan Adler, and Valerie Tripp

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Pigs Dancing Jigs

All the animals from A to Z
Are just as busy as they can be
If you want to see all they do
Then this book is just for you

Ages 3-6
Awards: Readers’ Favorite – 5 Stars Award
2021 Foreword INDIES Finalist
Illustrated by Patricia Grush-Dewitt & Robin Dewitt
Lawley Publishing 2021
ISBN 978-1952209-26-0

Here’s an alphabet book to delight young and old with animals as familiar to children as the cow and duck, and as unfamiliar as the impala and the zorilla. Rhyming words coupled with beautiful, detailed illustrations enhance the learning of the alphabet while also teaching about a variety of animals from around the world.

Kids and grown-ups alike will have more fun than a barrel of monkeys searching for the hidden letters in the art.

There are many alphabet books available, but Maxine Rose Schur’s rollicking rhyming book, Pigs Dancing Jigs, rises to the top of the list. Each letter of the alphabet showcases an animal, some familiar like foxes and kittens, some unusual like quetzals and zorils. The rhyme accompanying the letter is three or four words and rolls off the tongue. The illustrations are intricate, and each illustration features at least one hidden letter, sometimes many. The activities that the animals engage in are diverse and humorous. Every time you read Pigs Dancing Jigs, you will notice something new.

I have read many alphabet books in my career as a children’s librarian and Pigs Dancing Jigs stands out as a real winner. This book begs to be read out loud because the rhymes flow so well. Kids will want to examine the illustrations by Robin Dewitt and Patricia Dewitt-Grush, not only to look for the hidden letters but to take in all the fabulous detail. Each page is a work of art! Alphabet books are so important in a young child’s development, but you rarely find one that will engage both adults and children. Pigs Dancing Jigs does this admirably. I believe this one will be read over and over, and kids will be able to memorize it and “read” the book themselves. Pigs Dancing Jigs supports many of the important early learning skills, letter knowledge, phonological awareness, and print motivation. A bonus is that it introduces kids to some unusual animals as well.
–Readers’ Favorite

A Tale of Bread and Thread

The king is coming to visit, however, the baker’s bumbling causes a bizarre, wild mishap that terrifies the villagers.

Ages 4-8
Awards:
Lawley Publishing 2024
Hardback: ISBN 978-1-958302-43-9

Everyone in the village is thrilled because the king is coming to visit! Before his arrival, the king commands the village baker to bake him a delicious bread, and he commands the baker’s wife to make him a beautiful handkerchief. However, their bumbling causes a bizarre, wild mishap that terrifies the villagers. The couple’s fate now looks dim. Yet all is not lost, for the blundering couple discover hidden talents within themselves that guarantee a happy future.

This original folk tale is a comic story full of madcap humor, which also delivers an important message about the hidden talents within each of us. Hilariously illustrated by Italian artist, Cristina de Liso.

It’s full of humor and is guaranteed to have kids rolling about with laughter as they read about the baker’s mishaps, but there is a more serious side to this story…We all have hidden talents; we just have to find them. Overall, this is a thoroughly enjoyable story that kids everywhere will love. –Readers’ Favorite

Child of the Sea

A baby girl found in a net blesses the lives of a fisherman and his wife but their beloved daughter has a secret longing …

Ages 4-8
Illustrated by Milanka Reardon
Lawley Publishing 2022
ISBN 978-1-952209-76-5

When a fisherman finds a baby girl in his net, he and his wife our overjoyed. Their wish for a child has come true! But as the years go by, Merella, their beloved daughter, has a secret longing ― a longing that will lead the fisherman and his wife to a heartrending decision.

In this original folk story, you’ll be touched by this poetic fable that weaves themes of yearning, fate, and abiding love. Coupled with Milanka Reardon’s exquisite illustrations, Child of the Sea delivers a lively, lyrical tale that confirms the universal need to belong and the liberating power of love.

Filled with wonderful illustrations, this is sure to become a favorite book for many. – Midwest Book Review.

A beautiful tale of being true to oneself, but also of giving those we love the space to be themselves. The final image is a beautiful tribute to the love that remains, when we are all allowed to be who we are. Like many folktales, it is a bit melancholy, but also full of love and heart. – Maria Marshall-Perfect Picture Book Friday

There’s a Babirusa in My Bathtub!

Have you ever
bathed with a babirusa,
dove with a dugong
met a matamata, or
jumped with a jerboa?

No? Then this is the book for you!

Ages 4-9
Awards: Mom’s Choice Award
ForeWord Review’s Book of the Year (Silver)
iParenting Media Award
Illustrated by Michael S. Maydak
Lawley Publishing 2021
Dawn Publications 2009
ISBN 1-58013-114-X

You’ll encounter real, little-known animals with habits as curious as their names.  “There’s a Babirusa in My Bathtub!” is a bestiary of amazing facts and poetic fancy.  From Mexico to Madagascar, you’ll discover a wondrous assortment of unsung animals.  Not famous – but fabulous!

This unique book introduces thirteen little-known animals. Fanciful poems inspire children to want to know more and the book delivers. – National Wildlife Federation

Startling facts, silly poems and the thrill of a hidden picture hunt make this warmly illustrated smorgasbord of strangeness a sly and slippery segue from fiction to non-fiction.
– Just One More Book.com

Because it both reinforces the basics of reading and develops a passionate interest in nature, There’s a Babirusa in My Bathtub is not to be missed.
– Wayne S. Walker Stories for Children Magazine

Maxine Rose Schur uses creativity to connect narrative and expository text throughout There’s a Babirusa in My Bathtub! Her use of poetry spawns the imagination of children about little-known animals. The book awakens the natural curiosity of children and inspires them to deeper levels of understanding in both reading and science. And for teachers she provides activities that reinforce phonemic awareness, phonics, fluency, comprehension and vocabulary development. – Diana H. Brown, Director, National Reading Initiative, Performance Learning Systems

A variety of witty, lively poems makes learning about these unsung animals fun—and fun to imitate by writing similar poems about well-known animals. Teachers and parents will appreciate the series of exercises in the back of the book that focus on the basics of reading: fluency, phonics, phonemic awareness, comprehension and vocabulary. – iParenting

This unique book will appeal to all animal lovers, who will enjoy both the catchy poems as well as the additional factual information provided on each animal and its habitat. It’s an especially good book for teachers and parents who are homeschooling their children since it encompasses both science and language arts through the combination of poetry and short factual essays on each animal. – What Kids Think

A group of 7- to 10-year-olds enjoyed both the poems and learning about these exotic creatures, which appeal to children’s love of everything weird, grotesque and dangerous!  
– Toy Directory Monthly

Finley finds his Fortune

Ages 4-7
Illustrated by Olga Alaimo
Lawley Publishing 2022
ISBN -978-1-956357-55-4

When the three sons of a poor widow go into the woods to seek their fortune, the first two meet with misfortune but when the third son, Finley, sets out, he uses his intelligence, observation, imagination and industry to change his fortune, creating a bountiful life for himself, his new family and his mother. Finley Finds his Fortune is a lively story with themes of gratitude, ingenuity and love. It’s a story to be enjoyed as much for its delightful storytelling as its wise and heartwarming message.

Finley Finds His Fortune by Maxine Rose Schur is a heartwarming fable about which values endure in a world where everyone strives to “find their fortune.” Both the artwork and story, while remaining unique, reminded me of the coziness of the timeless books that I grew up with. Olga Alaimo’s illustrations are expressive and are sure to capture the eyes of little ones during story time. This story is well worth adding to your collection. – Readers’ Favorite

The Marvelous Maze

Ages 4-8
Illustrated by Patricia Dewitt-Grush & Robin Dewitt
Lawley Publishing 2020
Stemmer House, 1995
ISBN 0-88045-132-7

An original Renaissance fairy tale in which a clever but arrogant young prince orders an intricate garden maze built, and declares that the first princess to find her way out will be his bride. Many lovely princesses try but fail. Then the plain and plump 44th princess arrives and slyly teaches the prince about the importance of kindness, the beauty of nature and the power of love. A richly romantic tale exquisitely illustrated by Robin de Witt and Patricia de Witt Grush.

Wonderful story… a diamond jewel among picture books.
– The Kemper County Messenger

Maxine Rose Schur wraps a powerful message within a charming allegory – Book Review Center, Spalding University

The heroine who finds love despite her lack of glamour is admirable. – The Horn Book

Buy Now:
Barnes & Noble | Amazon

Email me: maxineschur@yahoo.com

When Zissel Got Rich

Ages 4-7
Illustrated by Cristina de Liso
Lawley Publishing 2023
ISBN- 978-1-958302-15-6.

Zissel had everything her heart desired…but didn’t know it. When Zissel got rich, she craved expensive jewelry but the more jewelry she bought, the sadder she became. In this wildly comic story, Maxine Rose Schur creates a fun yet heart-warming Jewish folk tale that proves we might already have all we would ever need and want.

When Zissel Got Rich by Maxine Rose Shur is a delightful children’s storybook about a woman’s pursuit of happiness, sprinkled with Hebrew folklore. Maxine Rose Schur writes with a welcoming tone that uses humor to introduce the reader to Jewish traditions. The illustrations by Cristina de Liso are hilarious and match the storyline to perfection. – Readers’ Favorite

Overall, although this story takes place “Long ago, well before you were born,” author Schur and illustrator De Liso have combined their storytelling talents to produce a book with a timeless message for our materialistic society, which is always striving to acquire more as a means to acquiring happiness. –Sydney Taylor Shmooze

The Peddler’s Gift

An original Russian-Jewish folk story. The wistful and moving tale of a boy who steals a toy from a foolish peddler only to discover he’s not so foolish after all.

Ages 4-8
Awards: Winner Sydney Taylor Award
Smithsonian Notable Book of the Century
Bay Area Book Reviewers Association Award Nominee
A Bank Street College of Education Best Children’s Book
New York Public Library List of 100 Titles for Reading and Sharing
IRA Notable Book for a Global Society
Illustrated by Kimberly Bulcken Root
Lawley Publishing 2022
Dial Books, Penguin USA 1999
ISBN 0-8037-1978-7

The combination of Schur’s poetic prose and Kimberly Bulcken Root’s gorgeous illustrations make The Peddler’s Gift a beautiful book to read, to look at, and to think about. – Education World

Fine storytelling, rhythmic and controlled. – The Horn Book

This nuanced portrait of shtetl life opens a window onto a lost world. – Smithsonian Magazine

A season standout! – The Atlanta Journal-Constitution

The author has a talent for developing complex themes with a luminous clarity of language.
– American Jewish Library Newsletter

This gentle story is written with a fine folkloric tone that evokes both the richness and simplicity of a time long past.
– School Library Journal

Schur writes with poetic grace… with color and depth, making a painful incident poignant and underscoring some of life’s elusive lessons. – San Francisco Chronicle

Marielle in Paris

Marielle the mouse has worked her dressmaking magic for nine days and nine nights to create nine beautiful dresses for Madame Sooree’s nine daughters. Finished at last, Marielle goes to bed, but when she wakes up, the dresses are gone! With no time to lose, Marielle must overcome her fear of heights to take a wild ride with her friend Pierre the pigeon to recover the missing party dresses, which have been scattered across Paris.

Ages 5-8
Awards: Winner of the 2019 Northern Lights Book Award for Picture Books, All Ages!
Illustrated by Jeanne B. de Sainte Marie
Pomegranate 2017
ISBN 978-0764979354

Schur recounts Marielle‘s whimsical adventures in straightforward narration, which is occasionally dashed with French vocabulary. . . Lined in delicate pencil, de Sainte Marie’s paintings faithfully reproduce a variety of Parisian sites. . . Readers will enjoy the creativity Marielle brings to her designs, and the final pages invite them to locate the sources of her inspiration in de Sainte Marie’s images. – Publisher’s Weekly

A simply delightful picture book for children ages 5 to 8. The collaborative work of children’s author Maxine Rose Schur and impressively skilled illustrator Jeanne B. de Sainte Marie, “Marielle in Paris” is decidedly and unreservedly recommended for family, elementary school, and community library picture book collections where it is certain to become an enduringly popular addition.
–Midwest Book Review

The Story of Ruth

Ages 4-8
Retold by Maxine Rose Schur,
Illustrated by Gwen Connelly
Kar Ben Publishing 2005
ISBN 1-58013-114-X

Here is the story of Ruth as you have never heard it before.  Told with poetry and depth, this retelling by Maxine Rose Schur evokes the authenticity of its time and place and captures a beautiful love story as well as the strength of two legendary women. A treat for children ages four to eight.

Maxine Rose Schur’s beautiful retelling makes the story of Ruth accessible to children, with a book well suited to being read silently and allowed.  The story of Ruth is written in modern English and sprinkled with words to give the language the rhythms and sounds of an older text, without presenting difficulty for the reader. Schur handles the levirate marriage deftly. this masterful rendition of the ancient story of Ruth and Naomi will help make it accessible to younger readers, and will be enjoyed by adults and children.  Highly recommended for grades 1 to 5.”
– American Jewish Library Newsletter

With evocative phrasing and a strong and sure emphasis on loyalty and girl power, Schur (The Peddler’s Gift ) offers a fresh take on this Bible story. – Publishers Weekly

The Witch at the Wellington Library

Ages 4-7
Viking/Sevenseas, New Zealand
Illustrations by Clare Bowes
ISBN: 9780854670666

What happens when an ugly witch takes up residence in the library? Boo-tiful things! The witch does cause some hilarious mischief with the library patrons but she is an artist as well. Her lovely paintings fascinate the community and despite her frightful appearance she finds fame… and love.

Full of suspense, surprise and humor, The Witch at the Wellington Library will delight readers not only at Halloween but throughout the year.

Weka Won’t Learn

Ages 4-6
Viking/Sevenseas, New Zealand
Illustrations by Vanya Lowry
ISBN: 9780854670475

Entertaining and educational stories for children about New Zealand’s flightless birds – the weka, the rifleman, the fantail, the morepork, the kiwi, the tūī, the kākāriki and the kākāpō.