Have you ever heard a silly, sing-songy phrase that sticks in your head and happily repeats itself all day long? In her board book Challahbaloo! author Elizabeth Suneby invents a captivating chant, “Challah, Challah, Challahbaloo!” that’s guaranteed to set toes tapping, bodies bouncing, and words reverberating.
Perfect for ages 1-3, Challahbaloo guides readers through a Shabbat evening with family, from making the dough for a delicious challah, to sitting down to dinner with loved ones. Illustrator Adriana Hernández Bergstrom uses vibrant, tropical colors to create a charming South American backdrop that beautifully highlights both the diversity of the Jewish people and the universality of Shabbat. No matter where Jews may live, preparing for and celebrating Shabbat follows a familiar and comforting rhythm. There’s making (or buying) challah, setting the table, lighting candles, reciting blessings, and gathering for a festive meal with family and friends. And if you choose to enjoy your Shabbat meal outdoors in South America, you may find yourself joined by an adorable capybara, toucan, anteater, and family of monkeys.
Little ones will adore exploring the lush flora and fauna while bopping along to the book’s fun musical beat. They may even be inspired to reach out to “touch” the challah or pretend to knead and roll the dough just like the children in this joyful, rollicking family.
PJ Library’s Book Selection Committee hopes Challahbaloo! will spark smiles and laughter while adding a fun new Shabbat chant to your family’s musical repertoire.
January 2, 2026