Nebo Coloring Book (Paperback) (ISBN-13: 9781960509345)

The Great Adventure of Nebo

Part 1

Zoom! Nebo was a fun kid bursting with energy. His feet moved so fast-tap-tap-tap!-it seemed like he could run forever. His best friend was Zacai, and together they were unstoppable. They leaped from rock to rock-boing!-played hide-and-seek, and laughed until their stomachs hurt.

When they were done, they'd drink a glass of milk-glug glug-and flop onto the grass to watch the clouds drift by.

Even though they lived in Babylon, their true home was far away... a land called Israel.

One day, his mom called,

"Nebo! Time to study!"

Nebo had to learn Hebrew-the language of his people-and read the Torah, the teachings of God. His father, Abi, would always say,

"Son, get ready. One day, we're going home. God promised we will go back to Israel."

But Zacai wasn't so sure. His father was prominent in Babylonia and his family didn't want to go back to rebuild. He wanted to stay in Babylon and work in the palace like his dad. Nebo didn't understand.

"But we're Jewish!" Nebo said. "We need to learn our language so we can go back!"

Then one night-boom!-everything changed.

Their leader, Zerubbabel, arrived with incredible news:

"King Cyrus has given permission for all the Jews to return to Jerusalem!"

What?! Really?!

They were even given gold and silver for the journey. Nebo's family jumped, spun, and danced all over the house-thump thump spin!

Some people were nervous. The journey would be long. But Nebo's grandpa grinned and said, even though I'm old and I can't walk so far. But...

"I'm going too!"

I will buy two donkeys. One to carry me and one to carry my bags.

Everybody clapped at this clever plan.

When it was finally time to leave, Nebo and Zacai hugged tight-squeeze!

Zacai who stayed ... gave Nebo a little donkey-hee-haw!-and writing supplies.

At first, the journey felt like a celebration. Neighbors brought food, coins, silver, and gold. Kids ran-whoosh!-laughing and shouting. Families sang and danced. Some even cried happy tears.

They were going home. Back to Israel!

God promised and it was time!