Rembrandt Chooses a Queen

Is there a story behind Rembrandt's famous painting of Queen Esther?

In Rembrandt Chooses a Queen, the famous artist has a problem. He wants to paint a scene from the biblical Purim story, but his model is too vain to portray the beautiful yet humble Esther. Samuel, a Jewish apprentice in Rembrandt's workshop, believes his sister Isabel would be the perfect replacement. She knows the Purim story well, is inspired by Esther's bravery, and proud to be Jewish. Now they just need to convince the great artist.

Based on the real Rembrandt painting Ahasuerus and Haman at the Feast of Esther, this inspiring story of Judaism and art intersecting in 17th century Amsterdam includes an author's note about Purim and a short biography of Rembrandt by a professor of art history.

By Kerry Olitzky and Debroah Bodin Cohen, illustrated by Cinza Battistel
32 pages
Published by Apples & Honey Press, 2025
Hardcover
8.5 x 0.5 x 11 inches
Recommended for ages 4+