Big Dreams, Small Fish
Big Dreams, Small Fish by Paula Cohen is a 40-page illustrated book published by Levine Querido in 2022. This story follows Shirley and her family as they navigate their new life in America, filled with aspirations and dreams. Shirley is eager to modernize the family store and believes she can successfully sell her mother’s homemade gefilte fish, despite her parents’ reservations about her age and their desire for her to enjoy childhood.
Readers will find a narrative that explores themes of family, creativity, and the immigrant experience. As Shirley’s innovative ideas clash with her parents’ expectations, the story highlights her determination and resourcefulness. The book presents a charming depiction of the challenges and joys of adapting to a new culture, making it a thoughtful addition to discussions around social themes and family dynamics.
Official synopsis Publisher
Sydney Taylor Honor Book
In the new country, Shirley and her family all have big dreams. Take the family store: Shirley has great ideas about how to make it more modern! Prettier! More profitable! She even thinks she can sell the one specialty no one seems to want to try: Mama’s homemade gefilte fish.
But her parents think she’s too young to help. And anyway they didn’t come to America for their little girl to work. “Go play with the cat!” they urge.
This doesn’t stop Shirley’s ideas, of course. And one day, when the rest of the family has to rush out leaving her in the store with sleepy Mrs. Gottlieb…Shirley seizes her chance!
P R A I S E
“Charming. Paula Cohen tells an all-American tale of the Yiddish diaspora.”
—TheWall Street Journal
“Timeless: an indomitable protagonist and the loving family who dotes on her.”
—Publishers Weekly
“Beautifully illustrated….Shirley is one smart child, a real asset to her striving family. She is full of innovative ideas, which are depicted by Cohen with both humor and respect.”
–Jewish Book Network
“An affectionate ode to family, fish, and creative problem solving.”
—BookPage
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