Barbara Kimmel is the author of the new children's board book Purim Possibilities. She also has written the book Hanukkah Hippity-Hop. She is also a playwright, and she lives in Atlanta.
Q: What inspired you to write Purim Possibilities, which focuses on the Jewish holiday of Purim?
A: I was shopping one day when I saw a child wearing a frilly pink tutu over her sweatpants and bright rain boots—on a sunny day! It wasn’t just the outfit that caught my eye, but her confidence in wearing it.
I started thinking about how kids are wonderfully mixed. They don’t fit neatly into labels like shy or outgoing, creative or athletic. They can be bold like a superhero, regal like a queen, and creative like a chef — sometimes all at once!
I wanted to celebrate that joy of self-expression, especially at Purim, a holiday that encourages play, imagination, and the freedom to be whoever you want to be.
Q: What do Irina Avgustinovich’s illustrations add to the story?
A: Irina Avgustinovich’s art brings so much humor, joy, and energy to every page.
I remember when I found out who the illustrator was, my wonderful PJ editor, Samara Klein, told me that one reason they chose Irina for my story was because of her incredible eye for clothing and accessories, with great color and texture. And Samara was right!
PJ included reusable stickers in my book so kids can mix and match costumes. Irina turned that idea into something magical, designing beautiful, detailed pieces that let children create costumes of their own and explore the story in a hands-on way.
Q: What are your favorite Purim traditions?
A: Purim has become a big holiday in our family, thanks in part to my book and my husband’s involvement at our synagogue. He’s a playwright, and he writes and performs in the Purim Spiels. Last year’s was Motown Megillah, and this year it’s Disco Megillah. It’s so fun to see him bring the story to life with humor and music.
Q: What do you hope kids take away from the book?
A: I hope kids feel free to be completely themselves and imagine endless possibilities. Purim is the perfect time to try on new identities and see what feels right.
I also hope the book helps young readers build a positive connection to books—returning again and again, having fun with the stickers, and inventing their own stories.
Q: What are you working on now?
A: I’m working on another playful, interactive board book. This one celebrates six Jewish holidays. It’s fun, a little silly, and I can’t wait to share it soon.
Q: Anything else we should know?
A: I’m so grateful to PJ for championing Jewish stories and supporting the writers and illustrators behind them. I attended their first Picture Book Summer Camp, which was life-changing and led to lasting friendships and critique partners.
I also love that PJ values board books and is willing to experiment with new formats, like stickers! It’s been such a gift to be part of that.
--Interview with Deborah Kalb
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