Sisters of the Winter Wood by Rena Rossner

A wonderful, lush, lyrical fairy tale of two sisters in a Jewish community in turmoil. Liba and Laya have been brought up in a strict Jewish community even though their parents have been considered outsiders and they live in the woods instead of in the village. When their parents are called away for an emergency they share their secret heritage with the girls and tell them to be careful but go on as though nothing has happened. Both girls are in the cusp of womanhood and soon find boys they fall for even if they aren't sure if their choices will go over with their parents, the village and if their secret will remain just that. Trouble soon comes calling and the village is plagued with several murders which set off racial tensions and a witch hunt. The lush language combined with the earthy old European tales full of danger and magic make for a delightful fairy tale of men and women who are transformed into swans, bears, and goblins as well as the dangers of forbidden love. There is also an underlying story of racial hatred based on rumors and ignorance or fear that feels reminiscent of the wars and politics to come. This is a must-read for lovers of "The Bear and the Nightingale" and old world fairy tale remakes.