By Richard Michelson
Illustrated by E.B. Lewis
Ages: 4 – 8
The story begins with Malia and Sasha Obama watching preparations for the first White House Passover Seder as family, staff, and friends gather for the festivities.
The story then rewinds a year to the 2008 campaign trail when Jewish aides Eric Lesser, Herbie Ziskind, and Arun Chaudhary had spent more than a year crisscrossing the country with Senator Barack Obama, working tirelessly on his presidential campaign. But on this particular night—the first night of Passover—they were missing their family seders, a cherished tradition of storytelling, reflection, and togetherness.
A Seder on the Campaign Trail
Eric had an idea: Why not have their own Seder? With the help of a nearby cousin, they gathered matzoh, macaroons, Manischewitz wine, and Maxwell House Haggadahs. The setting was far from ideal—a dingy, windowless basement two stories underground—but they were together, and the spirit of Passover remained.
As they began retelling the Exodus story, a surprise guest arrived: Senator Barack Obama. Like his team, he was homesick, tired, and hungry. He joined in, reflecting on how the struggles of the Israelites had long inspired civil rights leaders fighting for justice and equality.
By the evening’s end, they closed with the traditional words, “Next year in Jerusalem.” Obama added a hopeful twist: “Next year in the White House.”
A Promise Fulfilled
Fast-forward to 2009: the first official White House seder took place, with many of the same campaign staffers in attendance. This time, Malia and Sasha asked the Four Questions, and Ziskind hid the Afikomen, which the girls—along with Bo, their new dog—searched for.
At the end of the book, readers will find a note from Ziskind, Lesser, and Chaudhary, sharing how that first campaign Seder became a White House tradition and made history as the first presidential Seder. You will also find a copy of the original Haggadah with handwritten notes, historical photos, a Passover recipe, and insights into Black history and Passover, providing meaningful context.
A Deeper Significance
Acclaimed author Richard Michelson, known for his award-winning Jewish children’s literature, brings this powerful story to life with input from Ziskind, Lesser, and Chaudhary, who later led the White House Seders. Illustrator E.B. Lewis, celebrated for his work in Black children’s literature, beautifully captures the emotions, history, and connections between past and present.
Together, their collaboration reflects the deep ties between Jewish and Black communities, highlighting shared struggles, resilience, and the pursuit of freedom.
Next Year in the White House is a heartfelt, richly illustrated picture book that interweaves history, tradition, and hope. It is a must-read for families celebrating Passover and for those interested in the connections between faith, leadership, and social justice.
