"In the outskirts of Grodno in what is now Belarus, a poor artist named Misha goes into his ramshackle barn and discovers a starving stray cat curled up next to his milk cow. Soon Misha and the cat, which he dubs Mazel (Hebrew for luck), are fast friends, and together they celebrate Hanukkah. There are just enough potatoes for a plate of latkes ('Mazel gave a ‘meow’of approval and licked her whiskers') but no candles for grandfather’s elaborate silver menorah, so Misha paints a picture of one, adding a candle to the image for each night. This happy but meager existence takes an unexpected turn when an art-loving peddler appears at Misha’s door. Vavouri’s drawings, with their rough-hewn textures and Fiddler on the Roof aesthetic, are the real draw in newcomer Stein’s otherwise slight story. Misha and Mazel’s wiry bodies, bright eyes, and optimistic spirit mark them as instant soul mates." (Publishers Weekly)

"Misha, a poor but talented artist, lives by himself on the edge of a small village. So begins a tender and hopeful story of kindness, compassion and generosity. On a bitterly cold night before Hanukkah, Misha finds a shivering cat in his barn. 'I’ll call you Mazel,' he says, knowing the cat was lucky to have found shelter. He shares what little food he has and makes a snug bed for Mazel by the fire. Too poor to buy Hanukkah candles, each night Misha paints pictures of lit candles, and then sings the blessings. On the last night of Hanukkah, Misha uses his last drop of paint, a subtle reference to the miracle of the oil that lasted for eight days. The next afternoon, a peddler knocks on the door. His name is Meyer but he is a typical Elijah character - the beloved prophet in Jewish folklore who comes to the rescue of worthy individuals. Meyer pronounces Misha’s paintings 'wonderful' and buys as many as will fit in his wagon. And there is more good luck: Mazel turns out to be Meyer’s lost cat, Goldie, but instead of reclaiming her, he asks Misha if he will continue to care for her. Misha is thrilled. Keeping Mazel is not a favor - it is a gift, as is this heartfelt story. The Greek-born Elisa Vavouri has illustrated more than 70 children’s books, and her fondness for cats is evident. Mazel appears on almost every page, expressing her personality and delight with her new home. The indoor scenes glow with warmth and rich colors, the snowy outdoor scenes feel bright and icy, and it is clear that love and kindness abound." (Jewish Book Council)