A charming true story about how the author’s grandparents came to the United States from Russia. Anna and Solomon married in 1897. When the Czar’s soldier’s march on the Jewish quarter of their town, Anna makes a plan: Solomon will go to America, find work, and earn enough money to send for her. She will work in the market at home while she waits. All goes well, and finally the day comes when Solomon is eagerly watching for Anna among the new arrivals in New York, only to discover she’s sent her younger brother in her place. The second time Solomon is waiting, Anna has sent her older brother. Then her mother arrives instead of Anna. Finally, the day comes when it is really, truly Anna. Elaine Snyder shares more about Anna and Solomon, including several photographs, in an author’s note in which she states their story has become family legend. Harry Bliss’s cartoonlike illustrations reflect the bright optimism, spirit of generosity, and occasional moments of whimsy of the story. (Ages 5–8)

In 1897 a young man named Solomon fell in love with and married a beautiful young woman named Anna. They lived in Russia, which was dangerous at that time for a Jewish family, so Solomon moved to the United States, where he worked and saved until he had enough money to send Anna a ticket for the voyage across the ocean. But when Solomon went to meet Anna's ship, Anna's younger brother was waiting for him. Solomon took in her brother and worried and saved until he could send the money for Anna's passage again-but this time, Anna's older brother was waiting. When Solomon sent the money a third time and Anna's mother arrived, Solomon wondered if he would ever see his dear wife again. Elaine Snyder's Anna & Solomon is based on the true story of the author's grandparents' immigration.

A Margaret Ferguson Book