Shoham Smith has wisely and sensitively adapted one of the finest stories of ancient Jewish legend … Thanks to her endeavour, new generations will be introduced to this magical literature. - Professor Avigdor Shinan, The Hebrew University, Jerusalem

Shoham Smith’s language is clear, rhythmical, unadorned and not childish … Her adaptation presents this treasure of Jewish literature to children unapologetically and with a sympathetic approach to the roots of our culture. - Dr Inbar Raveh, Children and Youth Literature, David Yalin College, Jerusalem

Smith’s clear text manages to free itself from the intimidating shadow which envelopes the phrase Legend of Ancient Jewish Sages’ by treading confidently along the fine line separating simplicity and complexity, between day-to-day and high languages. [The book] deals with the importance of slow processes, with the power of knowledge, and stresses the need to master cultural heritage. - Tal Marmelstein in ‘Israel Today’ Young Akiva was a goat-herd. He was good at his job and content with his life, except for one thing - he had never learnt to read. One fateful day he decided it was time to change this. This is the inspirational story of Rabbi Akiva’s personal journey from poor goat-herd to a leading scholar. Elegant prose from renowned author Shoham Smith and striking illustrations from award-winning artist Vali Mintzi illuminate this beautiful and universal tale about how it’s never too late to learn. AUTHOR: Shoham Smith was born in Jerusalem in 1966, grew up in the Jordan Valley and studied industrial design at the Bezalel Academy of Art and Design at Tel Aviv University. An author of collections of short stories and children’s books, Smith received the 2009 Prime Minister’s Prize and is a two-time winner of the ACUM Award for Furthering the Publication of Children’s Books, in 2011 and 2015