Illustrated by Alyssa Russell
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In celebration of the 100th anniversary of Jewish Book Week, this engaging biography introduces children to the influential librarian and immigrant who originated the event.
Fanny Goldstein immigrated to America from Russia when she was six. She loved the fact that in her new country she could borrow books for free and take part in all kinds of activities at the Saturday Evening Girls Club. Right away, her curiosity attracted the notice of the club’s founder, who was also the head of the Boston Public Library. It wasn’t long before Fanny was hired as the librarian’s assistant, and then at thirty-three, as the first Jewish director of a Boston branch library. And when Fanny noticed how rarely Jewish families checked out books about their own history, she had an idea that would influence libraries and readers for decades to come: She decided to host a week-long party to celebrate Jewish books and culture. It was such a success that it launched a national event which has continued for 100 years!
Reviews:
“Michelson’s insights on the importance of books as windows and mirrors feel especially relevant in light of the threats currently facing stories by and about marginalized creators. A timeless and timely tribute to the enduring power of literature and libraries to build bridges.”
—Kirkus Review
“Immigration and assimilation, tradition, preserving and sharing cultures—[Michelson’s] book touches on many big ideas in American life.”
—Booklist, 
Starred review
“This picture book biography is a fitting commemoration of Goldstein’s Jewish pride and tenacious, bridge-building spirit—and a timely reminder of libraries’ import”—Publisher’s Weekly
“Well-researched and beautifully illustrated…A true pioneer of inclusion, Fanny’s story represents respect for all cultures, not just her own.” —School Library Journal
Essays:
Seeing Ourselves in Literature: Fanny Goldstein and Jewish Book Month — Jewish Book Council, November 13, 2025
Print Interviews:
How a Boston Librarian Sparked Jewish Book Week— JewishBoston, October 28th, 2025
“Prolific children’s book author and essayist Richard Michelson does a perfect job combining historical accuracy with accessible language for kids, while illustrator Alyssa Russel—descended from Eastern European Jews who fled to America to escape antisemitism—captures the innocence (and the formality) of turn-of-the-century Boston.”
Interview with Richard Michelson, author of FANNY’S BIG IDEA: HOW JEWISH BOOK WEEK WAS BORN — Jewish Books for Kids, October 30th, 2025
“Considering how much Fanny had accomplished in her life, especially as a woman, an immigrant, and a Jew, I was surprised to learn how little information existed about Fanny. When an individual I admire has the courage to stand up for the rights of others, I become interested in how their childhood fueled the person they became. So, I decided to investigate.”
Book Q&As with Deborah Kalb — Tuesday, November 4, 2025
“Fanny was all about building bridges. She was the original ‘windows and mirrors’ proponent! Every person deserves to both see themselves represented in books, and to learn about other cultures. As Fanny always said, ‘the more you know about someone’s life, the harder it is not to like them.'”
Listen:
Richard Michelson on NEPM’s The Fabulous 413 with Monte Belmonte and Kaliis Smith, November 2025
Richard Michelson on Northampton Poetry Radio with Bill Newman and Buz Eisenberg. November 13, 2025
Reading with Your Kids Podcast: Jed Doherty interviews Richard Michelson about Fanny’s Big Idea, October 31, 2025