MOOSHKA, A QUILT STORY  written and illustrated by Julie Paschkis, Peachtree Publishers,  2012, ages 4 – 8.

A quilt can be many things besides a cozy coverlet.

In this picture book, MOOSHKA, A QUILT STORY,  for Karla, her very special quilt that was sewn by her grandmother, is a friend, a companion and a story-teller.    The quilt’s name is Mooshka and with each strip of fabric, Mooshka smells different – sometimes even yummy- toasty – and talks different.  Every night Karla listens and Mooshka talks. Every night, that is, until new baby sister, Hannah, arrives.

For Karla her whole world changes when baby Hannah is moved into Karla’s room.  Karla’s room changes, but also her whole family.  Karla is angry. Mooshka becomes silent.  No more stories.

The illustrations are a dazzle of fabric patterns.  The story about the connection between generations and making room for a new one, is heart-warming, realistic and with a surprise ending.