When King Solomon sends the mythical Ziz, a huge and clumsy but well-meaning bird, to keep his daughter, Princess Magda, company, he changes her life with their many adventures and, ultimately, his sacrifice to her.

This modern update of a Jewish folktale includes a working single mom and two kids who want to let her rest while they get ready for Shabbat. But first they have to dispatch a pesky goblin on their own, which takes ingenuity, cooperation, and courage. End note explains Jewish origin of goblins. Sometimes, a peaceful Shabbat means braiding challah and dinner with your family. Sometimes it means trying to catch a goblin before sundown. And sometimes, it means both! --Madelyn, from Goodreads

When Carly unthinkingly makes fun of Saras last name at mail call, her bunkmate refuses to be consoled. But their mutual love of music brings harmony to Shabbat dinner as well as to their friendship, and Carly finally gets the chance to reveal her own secret.