Set in 1911 Mill Creek, Wisconsin, Gittel tells the story of thirteen-year-old Gittel Borenstein, whose Jewish family has fled the deadly pogroms of Eastern Europe in search of safety and opportunity. Life in rural America, however, brings its own challenges—harsh winters, unfamiliar farming, and a community where not everyone welcomes the new Jewish settlers. A bright student with a sharp tongue and a passion for Emily Dickinson's poetry, Gittel dreams of becoming a writer or singer. Yet, with only eight grades of schooling available and facing antisemitic bullying from classmates like Karl Leckner, her aspirations seem out of reach. Through resilience, wit, and the support of her family, Gittel navigates the complexities of adolescence, identity, and belonging in a world that often feels unwelcoming.

Inspired by the author's own family history and the little-known Jewish agricultural colonies of early 20th-century Wisconsin, Gittel offers a unique perspective on American Jewish life. This middle-grade historical novel has been praised for its rich character development and historical detail. As noted by the Jewish Book Council, "Gittel and her family are characters that will be remembered long after one finishes reading."

Perfect for readers aged 10 and up, Gittel is a poignant coming-of-age story that explores themes of immigration, resilience, and the pursuit of one's dreams amidst adversity.