Sarah & Abraham: A Torah Story (with Goats) is a fabulous example of board books we at PJ Library have come to expect from author-illustrator Varda Livney: It is whimsical, charming, witty, and reflective. Introducing one-year-old listeners to our Biblical ancestors in an age-appropriate way — offering just the right amount of information in simple text coupled with engaging art — is no small task, but Varda Livney accomplishes it with aplomb. She also manages to add details that might be more noticed and appreciated by the adult reader: showing Abraham and Sarah holding hands as they stare into the night sky, and Abraham playfully admonishing a group of boisterous young goats by saying, “Cut it out, kids!”
Choosing a gentle palette for the illustrations, offering art that invites conversation without overwhelming little viewers, and gently suggesting the Middle Eastern setting are other indicators of the talent and creativity Varda Livney brings to this book. To top it off, she trusted her project to PJ Publishing, and we think our in-house imprint did a fantastic job of bringing the book to life. We hope you have occasion to read this book with a child. We believe you’ll both enjoy the experience!
April 6, 2026