Passport to Russia inaugurates a new series of junior fiction from C.I.S. Publications entitled The Girls of Rivkah Gross Academy. In this first book, Bracha finds her apprehensions about transferring to a new school unfounded as she makes many new friends. Sara, her new best friend, is a mischievous daredevil with a wonderful sense of mystery and adventure. When the two girls decide to investigate the mysterious goings on in the neighborhood candy store, they are drawn into an unexpected web of intrigue which ultimately results in an exciting journey behind the Iron Curtain. The pages of Passport to Russia overflow with many wonderful scenes in the classroom and the home with which young readers will readily identify, as well as a variety of other fascinating settings which will broaden their horizons and challenge their imaginations. The book is written in the first person from Bracha's perspective in a smooth breezy style which sheds poignant light in her inner thoughts as she grapples with situations and problems that face a young girl through her formative years. Readers will sympathize with her trepidations, cheer her successes and learn from her good midos and values in this fast-moving story. Passport to Russia in an auspicious beginning for Sukey Stavsky Gross, a first-time author who resides in Lakewood, New Jersey. At this time, several other books in this series are already in various stages of preparation, and their imminent publication will undoubtedly be eagerly awaited.
by Sukey Stavsky Gross