Finding Forgiveness

A Sydney Taylor Book Award Notable Book
13 Books to Celebrate the Bond Between Sisters (School Library Journal)

“Luminous and emotionally resonant … Levington’s rhyming text gracefully captures the emotional nuance of reconciliation, while Mayo’s warm watercolor illustrations provide a comforting visual backdrop. Together, they present a thoughtful narrative that helps young readers navigate feelings of regret, anger, and healing … Whether read at home or in the classroom, it provides a meaningful way to discuss themes of remorse, forgiveness, and emotional growth. A tender, beautifully crafted story about conflict, emotional insight, and Jewish holiday traditions.” –School Library Journal

“Gardyn Levington’s rhyming couplets skillfully capture the narrator’s emotional journey, while Mayo’s deftly illustrated, light-filled spreads and pastel colors convey the joy of the holiday … The story makes an excellent addition to the very small handful of children’s books on Tashlich and the themes of Yom Kippur … Conveys a universal lesson on compassion tenderly and with depth.” –Kirkus Reviews

“This touching, relatable, and emotional book helps children to understand the importance of asking forgiveness.” –Wisconsin Jewish Chronicle

“The delightful illustrations by Diana Mayo show a diverse congregation and a woman rabbi wearing a prayer shawl and a kippa. This charming book also includes a glossary and a guide to making meaningful apologies. A great addition to the library of parents and grandparents.” –Jewish Community Voice

“In Rebecca Gardyn Levington’s touching–and relatable–story channeling the High Holidays spirit, two sisters have an argument on the day before Rosh Hashanah that leaves them both sulking … The book includes suggestions for meaningful apologies that all children can use.” –The Jerusalem Post

“Finding Forgiveness offers a sophisticated yet child-accessible path to moving through sadness and emotional disruption. It underscores self-forgiveness, accountability and communication, lessons for little ones and the adults in their lives … The book reminds us that within Jewish tradition there are ways of handling conflict and being our best selves by both taking accountability for our actions and forgiving ourselves. This is a helpful reminder for readers of all ages and backgrounds.” –The Sydney Taylor Schmooze

“What makes Finding Forgiveness especially meaningful is its dual relevance: while rooted in Jewish tradition, its message is universal. The book includes a glossary and a practical guide on how to make meaningful apologies, making it a valuable resource for families and educators alike. Whether shared during the Days of Awe or used year-round to spark conversations about accountability and healing, this picture book is a quiet gem that belongs in every child’s library.” –Writing and Illustrating Blog

Rebecca Gardyn Levington is a journalist, children’s book author, and poet who has a particular penchant for penning both playful and poignant picture books and poems-primarily in rhyme. Her recent titles include Afikoman, Where’d You Go?; Little Dreidel Learns to Spin; and Whatever Comes Tomorrow. Rebecca’s award-winning poems and articles have appeared in numerous anthologies, newspapers, and magazines. She lives in New Jersey with her family.

Diana Mayo has illustrated many picture books and nonfiction children’s books for publishers in the UK and US, including Snow Ghost by Tony Mitton, Molly on the Moon by Mary Robinette Kowal, and Yawning Yoga by Laurie Jordan. She enjoys getting messy with watery paint, collage, colored pencils, and pastels to create colorful, patterned, and texture-filled illustrations. She lives and works in Chelmsford, near London, in the UK with her family and two cats.

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