Dr. Ruth’s reflections convey the blessings of courage, optimism and hard work, set against a rollicking roller-coaster ride.

Readers are invited into two brightly entertaining novels, and once engrossed, the door quietly closes and traps them in stories of gravity that can’t be put down.

New titles of Jewish interest geared to young readers abound, ranging from intricately crafted graphic novels to engaging chapter books on varied and challenging topics.