The first Easter by Jess Racklyeft

Just in time for Easter 2026, to be processed and placed on library shelves and in the hands of families and children is The first Easter, a companion book to The first Christmas by Melbourne-based author and illustrator.  Fresh updates to the collections held in school and local libraries of books on Christianity are overdue and therefore Jess's book is a welcome addition to the number of books published recently on alternate world religions for the consumption of children.  Having previously worked in publishing and having children of her own, it is likely that Jess saw this gap in the market. Balance and education is of importance in order to address the lack of knowledge of Australian children about Christianity.

Jess Racklyeft has been awarded for a number of CBCA Picture Books of the Year. The books, well known to schools, are the delightful, Smile cry written by Tania McCartney, Welcome baby written and illustrated by Racklyeft (2020) and Iceberg (2022) written by Claire Saxby and winning Picture book of the year.  Iceberg is noted for its "detailed artwork that portrays...3D structure of icebergs." These books need to be sought out if only for their stunning illustrations.  The first Easter is illustrated primarily in soft, muted watercolour. The characters appear happy and kind and the backgrounds that they move through are gently whimsical and detailed. Jess has dedicated this book to peace and kindness and she has achieved a peaceful and kind tone. Birds, animals, people and shared food are the subject of the delightful illustrations.

Jess tells  the story of Easter in a simple, reliable and accessible way. She explains what Easter means to people and what ceremonies and rituals people have to celebrate it. She begins the narrative with, " A long time ago, in a country far away, a man called Jesus travelled to the big city." Perhaps she thinks that saying Jerusalem would be too much information for young children. Jess narrates the storyline chronologically beginning with Palm Sunday, The Last Supper (using the term "friends" rather than "disciples"), Jesus's crucifixion (just showing images of the crown of thorns and the Cross) and his resurrection on the third day. Jess concludes with the eggs being a symbol of new life..."And that is the story of the first Easter."

This reader agrees with other reviewers that The first Easter is perfect for families, godparents and grandparents wanting a thoughtful introductory book to faith for toddlers and young school age children.  It is a good choice for church communities, schools and homes - one that can be reread seasonally.  A note in the endpapers informs readers that Easter has been celebrated for over 2000 years all around the world, with slightly different rituals and symbols in different cultures. It also states that Easter celebrations have become part of secular gatherings as people come together to celebrate new life, hope and new beginnings.

The first Easter is a beautiful book with deep meaning written by a well- known, award winning illustrator and emerging young writer. It is recommended as a companion read with The first Christmas. 

Themes: Easter.

Wendy Jeffrey