Yakov and the Seven Thieves first two releases were "The English Roses" (September 2003), and "Mr. Peabody's Apples" (November 2003). Both debuted at number one on "The New York Times" Best Seller list. Joe D'Angelo from MTV News confirmed that the third book would be titled "Yakov and the Seven Thieves". Madonna was again inspired by a 300 year-old story by rabbi Baal Shem Tov that she had heard from her Kabbalah teacher, and wanted to share the "essence" of it. "We must never forget that hidden behind a large amount of darkness is a large amount of light," the singer wrote in the preface.
Blue Roses from the Moons critic Thom Owens wrote, "Though the slick sound is a little disarming for longtime fans, Griffith's songwriting remains skilled and assured, and while there aren't as many standout numbers as before, her graceful melodicism and lyricism and the professional production makes Blue Roses From the Moons a very pleasant listen." All tracks composed by Nanci Griffith except where indicated. Blue Roses from the Moons Blue Roses from the Moons is a studio album by Nanci Griffith, released in March 1997. The album was recorded from live takes in the studio, with her band "The Blue Moon Orchestra" and Jerry Allison,