Celebrate Hanukkah
Hanukkah is an eight-day celebration that begins on the 25th day of the Jewish calendar month of Kislev, which usually falls during the month of December, but occasionally begins during November. In 2007, Hanukkah is celebrated from sundown on December 4 through sundown on December 12, 2007. (The observance of all Jewish holidays begins at sunset the previous day.)
Hanukkah (also commonly spelled "Chanukah") means "rededication" in Hebrew. Hanukkah refers to a second century (165 B.C.E.) conflict when Palestine was caught between two great Hellenistic powers: Egypt and Syria. This conflict divided the empire of Alexander the Great. Under Syrian power, there was a campaign to establish political and religious conformity by "Hellenizing" the Jews, forcing them to adopt Greek dress and customs. Even more serious, the Syrian emperor decreed that the Temple in Jerusalem, the national house of worship, would become a temple to the Greek god Zeus. A small band of soldiers led by Judah Maccabee staged a successful rebellion against the Syrians and rededicated the Temple. Hanukkah celebrates the restoration of religious freedom and the preservation of Jewish customs, as well as the traditional Jewish worship service.
Often called the Festival of Lights, Hanukkah is one of the best known and most joyous holidays for the Jewish community. While not a particularly important religious occasion, Hanukkah is a special time for gathering and celebrating with family and friends. The "Festival of Lights" refers to the legend of a miracle that occurred during the rededication of the Temple. When the Jews sought to rekindle the menorah in the Temple sanctuary, they found only enough purified oil to last one day, yet miraculously, the small portion of oil burned for eight days--the length of time required to purify new oil.
During the eight days of Hanukkah, a candle is lit each night to commemorate the miracle of the oil in the Temple. Nine candles are arranged in a candelabra called a menorah--one for each night, plus the shamash or shammus (meaning servant), the candle used to light the others. Candles are lit from left to right, and the shamash is placed in the middle at a different height. Families gather at nightfall to rekindle the menorah flames, rededicate themselves to their faith, and share in festive meals. Blessings are sung or recited as the candles are lit. First, a special blessing for the Hanukkah lights, then a blessing for the miracles that happened long ago, and then the Shehehayanu--a blessing said on the first night of every Jewish holiday. It is customary to eat fried foods on Hanukkah because of the significance of oil to the holiday. Special potato pancakes fried in oil called latkes are served as a reminder of the miraculous oil.
Each night of Hanukkah may feature songs or readings, games and gifts ranging from "gelt" (money) to candy to other small presents. One Hanukkah tradition, especially for children, is playing the dreidel game with spinning tops. On each of the four sides of the dreidel, there is one of four Hebrew letters that stand for "Great Miracle Happened There."
The above is taken from the Hallmark site
Reviews
Biscuit's Hanukkah
Alyssa Satin Capucilli
Pictures by Pat Schories
Watercolors by Mary O'Keefe Young
As his owner sets about to create a menorah to celebrate Hanukkah, Biscuit gets into his usual mischief: exploring wet paint (he makes a cute blue nosed dog), and helping with the wrapping paper and ribbon (by getting himself "wrapped" up). This gentle little book shows a little girl and her puppy engaged in an art project with a purpose. They share their finished menorah with a couple of other children. The text is intended for early readers, but it is perfect to share with little listeners who will also observe the yarmulke on a little boy's head as a natural part of the illustrations. This is a good introduction to some of the aspects of Hanukkah and includes words such as "shamash," which is explained to Biscuit as meaning the "leader candle." 2005, Harper Collins, $4.99. Ages 2 to 6. Reviewer: Sheilah Egan (Children's Literature).
ISBN: 0-06-009469-9
A Box of Candles
Laurie Jacobs
Illustrated by Shelly Schonebaum Ephraim
This is a sweet story about a child's relationship with her grandmother. For Ruthie's seventh birthday, her Grandma Gussie gives her a box of candles and a silver candlestick. The candles will last a whole year. She will be able to light a candle for each Shabbat and every Jewish holiday, and when the box is empty, she will be eight years old. Ruthie is a typical seven-year-old. She likes her life the way it is, and hopes it will never change. But one Friday night there is a guest for Shabbat dinner. Mr. Adler knew Grandma in elementary school, and he seems to be replacing Ruthie in Grandma's affections. She does not like him at all. But as the year passes Ruthie learns to accept Mr. Adler. She helps in his garden, when he gets a new puppy she plays with it, they go to synagogue together at Rosh Hashanah, she makes presents at Hanukkah and Mr. Adler helps her learn to skate. By Purim, Ruthie is ready to celebrate a wedding. She will have a new grandpa--Zayde Sam--by her birthday. The candles are all gone, and Ruthie has found that changes are not so bad after all. And the reader has learned something about Jewish holidays. Recommended. 2005, Boyd's Mills Press, $17.95. Ages 5 to 8. Reviewer: Judy Silverman (Children's Literature).
Best Books:
Notable Children's Books of Jewish Content, 2006; Association of Jewish Librraies; United States
ISBN: 1-59078-169-4
Celebrate Hanukkah
Deborah Heiligman
Part of National Geographic's "Holidays Around the World" series, this colorful volume is distinguished by its photographs of Jews of various nationalities and different skin colors-from India to Peru to Uganda-celebrating Hanukkah. It is a celebratory collection of images, with brief text that remarks on the modern highlights of the holiday-lighting the menorah, singing, eating foods fried in oil, and playing with the spinning top known as a dreidel. Back matter includes the traditional Hanukkah prayers (in English), a recipe for the traditional Hanukkah potato pancakes, or latkes, and a description of the dreidel game. In two instances in the text, Heiligman relates stories about Hanukkah's history that may not be factual, but fails to alert readers to conflicting versions of history. In her discussion about why Jews celebrate the holiday for eight nights and days, she asserts as undisputed fact that the original celebrants-the Jews who reclaimed the temple in Jerusalem some 2,100 years ago, after the Maccabees' victory over the armies of King Antiochus-celebrated for eight days because that is the length of the harvest festival, Sukkot. Although this is one theory of the eight days, scholars and historians hold differing views as well. Heiligman also states as fact that in ancient times, when oppressed Jews used to study their religion in secret, when soldiers from the oppressive government came upon them, the Jews would pull out their dreidels and pretend they were just playing a game. That is one story, or legend, about the origins of the dreidel game. Other historians say it is more likely the game is based on European betting games from medieval times. 2006, National Geographic, Ages 5 to 12, $15.95. Reviewer: Debbie Levy
ISBN: 0-7922-5924-6
ISBN: 0-7922-5925-4
A Confused Hanukkah: An Original Story of Chelm
Jon Koons
Illustrated by S.D. Schindler
There are many traditional tales of the foolishness of the citizens of the legendary Eastern European city of Chelm. Koons has written a new adventure for those silly folks as they try to celebrate Hanukkah without the guidance of their rabbi, who is away. Not remembering how they are supposed to observe the holiday, they send Yossel off to a nearby town to find out what should be done. By mistake, Yossel ends up in the Big City. He notes the holiday preparations around him, which include decorating trees, putting candles everywhere, and preparing the Festival of the Fat Man who brings presents, all Christian rather than Jewish activities of course, but Yossel doesn't understand that. Back in Chelm, the people follow Yossel's instructions. When the rabbi returns in time for the celebration, he is both puzzled and amused by what the people have prepared. But after he reminds them of the real Hanukkah, with menorah, latkes, and dreidel, they combine it all to have "the best Hanukkah they'd ever had." In fact it was said that "theirs was the best festival in all the old country, year after year." Schindler deftly paints good-natured villagers, their preparations, and the eventual happy resolution to their puzzlement, carefully composing believable scenes filled with engaging, slightly caricatured folks filled with the holiday spirit. 2004, Dutton Children's Books/ Penguin Young Readers Group, Ages 4 to 8, $16.99. Reviewers: Ken Marantz and Sylvia Marantz (Children's Literature).
This book offers a humorous telling of the celebration of Hanukkah in the small countryside village. Chelm is a nice little town, but the people who live there are very simple and forgetful. When the Rabbi of Chelm leaves town near the time of Hanukkah one year, the panicky citizens forget how to celebrate the holiday. The wise men of the village send a man named Yossel out to a neighboring town to find out how to celebrate properly. When Yossel ends up in a village that celebrates Christmas instead of Hanukkah, he comes back with all sorts of wrong ideas regarding the festivities. When the Rabbi returns home from his trip, he must straighten things out and remind everyone of the true meaning of the Hannukah celebration. This book is great for kids because it ties the celebration of the Jewish holiday of Hannukah to the Christian Christmas holiday. In an era of vast differences, this book teaches children that we all have a little something in common. 2004, Dutton Children's Books, Ages 4 to 6, $16.99. Reviewer: Jackson Nichols (Children's Literature).
ISBN: 0-525-46969-9
Dinosaur on Hanukkah
Diane Levin Rauchwerger
Illustrated by Jason Wolff
Dinosaur on Hanukkah introduces a most unusual guest to help light the menorah. Through Diane Levin Rauchwerger's rhyming verse, a giant reptile romps through the festivities, leaving melting chocolate gelt and dripping candles in his wake. Jason Wolff's colorful pictures reveal a huge critter juggling latkes and pouting over the dreidel game while being kindly guided by a smaller but much more mature boy narrator. What a unique way to highlight Hanukkah rituals.! Youngsters will beg for this playful story again and again, while, like the narrator, hoping the dinosaur in future comes frequently, perhaps for weekly Shabbat. 2005, Kar-Ben/Lerner, $6.95. Ages 2 to 6. Reviewer: Mary Quattlebaum (Children's Literature).
One of the joys of childhood is suspension of ordinary belief systems, illustrated by the beginning of this rollicking story: "There's a dino knocking on my door, It's HANUKKAH, you see." Well, if you are a child I suppose you do see this as perfectly plausible, so you can just relax and have fun with it as the dino, at first a welcome visitor reminiscent of The Cat in the Hat, becomes a bit of an unwelcome nuisance. He is okay at marching around like a Maccabee soldier; wrapping gifts, and receiving them but things become a bit unglued as the chocolate gelt starts to melt, the latkes land everywhere but in the pan, and Dino cannot count the right number of candles. All is forgiven, though, and the story ends on a bright and happy note. Children will love these friendly pictures and beg for "overs" every night of Hanukkah. This is a gift sure to be loved from year to year. 2005, Kar-Ben, $6.95. Ages 3 to 8. Reviewer: Judy Chernak (Children's Literature).
ISBN: 1-58013-143-3
Four Sides, Eight Nights: A New Spin on Hanukkah
Rebecca Tova Ben-Zvi
Illustrated by Susanna Natti
Beginning with each of four children recounting their favorite aspects of celebrating Hanukkah, this all purpose look at the holiday gives the "How, What, Who, and Why" in a child friendly format. There is quite a lot of history and factual information in this picture book, including the story of the writing of "My Dreidel" song.
The historical background of foods and traditions are explained with subtle charm and depicted in soft black and white drawings. Children will enjoy learning about a variety of brave people from Jewish history including: Judah Maccabee, Judith, and two Hannahs.
The sidebars have little "tidbits" of information, fun facts, and humor. Stories from the personal perspectives of the children reveal their own family's traditions: "we give promises at Hanukkah-I promised to clean my sister's fish tank." For those wanting to explain and discuss the origins and traditions of Hanukkah with some physics (How do dreidels spin so long?) thrown in for good measure, this will make an excellent addition to a family or classroom library. 2005, Roaring Brook Press, Ages 5 to 10, $16.95. Reviewer: Sheilah Egan
ISBN: 1-59643-059-1
The Golden Dreydl
Ellen Kushner
Illustrations by Ilene Winn Lederer
Sara is reluctant to spend another December holiday without garland, tinsel, blinking lights and a Christmas tree. Sara's family celebrates Chanukah with the traditional recipes, decorations and games for the Jewish holiday. It seems to Sara that all of the town celebrates Christmas but ignores the Jewish holiday. When Aunt Miriam, or "Tante Miriam" as her family calls her, arrives for the traditional celebration and exchange of gifts, Sara embarks on an adventure that will bring her a new understanding and appreciation for her Jewish heritage. This chapter book creates a holiday story that will intrigue all middle readers, but especially those who know something about the basics of this holiday. The line drawings of Winn-Lederer enhance the story, bringing humor and fantasy into the plot. The illustrations are reminiscent of the Lemony Snicket illustrations, in style and design. Librarians looking for new holiday books will want to add this to their collections. This will make a wonderful gift for the holidays and will continue to hold its worth as a teaching tool long after the holidays are over. A glossary of frequently used terms and phrases provides information to the reader. 2007, Charlesbridge, Ages 9 to 12, $15.95. Reviewer: Joyce Rice (Children's Literature).
ISBN: 978-1-58089-135-6
Hanukkah
Cathy Goldberg Fishman
Illustrations by Mary O'Keefe Young
A beginning reader, part of the "On My Own--Holidays" series, this soft cover book is a factual account of the Festival of Lights, Hanukkah, its history and how it is generally celebrated today. The author begins with the "amazing story" of "events that happened more than two thousand years ago...in Judea." The history of the holiday is well done and very readable, emphasizing the importance of self-rule and religious freedom which led to the successful revolt of Mattathias and his five sons against the Syrian rulers of their country and the rededication of the Temple with the small jar of oil that lasted eight days. The second half of the book relates today's observances and includes the fact that Hanukkah always comes on the same day in the Hebrew month, regardless of its English date. It covers modern day celebrations, including the correct way to place and light candles in the menorah, or hanukkiah, eating of latkes and sufganiot (jelly doughnuts), playing dreidel, and having parties. With realistic pastel pictures, this book is an excellent sourcebook for Hanukkah and a good choice for an overall view of the holiday. 2004, Lerner, $5.95. Ages 5 to 8. Reviewer: Judy Chernak (Children's Literature).
ISBN: 1-57505-583-X
Hanukkah at Valley Forge
Stephen Krensky
Illustrated by Greg Harlin
After two long hard years at war, General Washington is at Valley Forge on a cold December night, deeply worried about his troops. As he passes a hut, he notices a young man lighting a candle. As one "of the children of Abraham," the man explains to Washington, and to the reader, the story of the Hanukkah he is commemorating in prayer, the miracle of the Festival of Lights. The general sees a parallel between the successful fight of the ancient Jews against tyranny and his against the British, noting that "miracles may still be possible." In an author's note, Krensky admits that this tale "must be taken on faith," but specifically details the facts on which the informative and inspirational story is based. Harlin's naturalistic double-page scenes depict both the Valley Forge setting and the ancient Mediterranean locales of the historic tale. Color is used effectively in producing emotions, first the dull cold blues of the winter camp; then the brighter tans of the struggle of the Israelites. The yellow candlelight adds a symbolic uplifting force. Formal page designs with white framed scenes against dark pages reinforce the historic qualities of the visual telling. 2006, Dutton Children's Books/Penguin Young Readers Group, Ages 5 to 9, $17.99. Reviewer: Ken Marantz and Sylvia Marantz
ISBN: 0-525-47738-1
Hanukkah Crafts
Karen E. Bledsoe
This craft book for children is unusual in that it is actually aimed at children. The recommended age is eight or nine, third and fourth graders, and they could certainly do all the crafts themselves, without asking for any adult help. I would extend the range to ages eight to 10, because even fifth-graders would enjoy these projects. A mobile, Hanukkah symbol stamps and magnets, cards, ornaments, bookmarks, a key chain, and candy holders--all become doable. The instructions are clearly written, and illustrations are in photographs. The patterns for dreidel and symbols indicate that they should be enlarged, but I don't know if that is necessary. And although it says to "ask an adult to help you trace and cut" the patterns, most eight-year-old could do this alone if they are careful. A reading list, Internet addresses, and an excellent index complete this fun book. Recommended. 2004, Enslow Publishers, $17.95. Ages 8 to 10. Reviewer: Judy Silverman (Children's Literature).
ISBN: 0766022382
Hanukkah: Jewish Festival of Lights
Terri Sievert
Part of the "First Facts" series for below-level readers, this brief volume covers the bare essentials of the story of Hanukkah. The explanation of the "miracle" of Hanukkah is boiled down to the most basic fact: after the Jews of Judea won a war against a foreign king, a one-day supply of oil for their temple's menorah lasted for eight days. Children will have to look elsewhere to learn that the name of the king was Antiochus and that the temple was in Jerusalem. This book does a somewhat more complete job of introducing young readers to the ways in which North American Jews celebrate Hanukkah, from lighting menorah candles to eating foods fried in oil to playing games with a spinning top called a dreidel. Historical illustrations are more interesting than the stock photos. 2006, Capstone Press, Ages 5 to 8, $21.26/$15.95. Reviewer: Debbie Levy
ISBN: 978-0-7368-5389-7
ISBN: 0-7368-5389-8
Hanukkah, Oh Hanukkah
Susan L. Roth
Susan L. Roth takes the holiday song "Hanukkah, Oh Hanukkah" and turns it into a picture book using mice to depict the gathering of family and friends. Roth's mice light the menorah, dance the hora, eat latkes, play with dreidels, and gather around the piano to revel in the holiday cheer. While Roth's choice of cut cloth and paper collage certainly creates a colorful and textured appearance, it also makes the work appear fragmented. Furthermore, the emotionless mice fail to convey any sense of merriment typically associated with the holiday season. While the illustrations could have more closely matched the tone of the holidays, children of all religions will be able to identify with the mice as they dance and play throughout the book. Jewish families will certainly appreciate the addition to the comparatively small collection of holiday children's books, while non-Jewish children will be able to learn about the Hanukkah season. 2004, Dial Books for young Readers, Ages 1 to 5, $10.99. Reviewer: Henry Tindal (Children's Literature).
ISBN: 0-8037-2843-3
Hanukkah, Shmanukkah!
Esme Raji Codell
Illustrated by LeUyen Pham
Dicken's A Christmas Carol finds a whole new expression in the hands of Esme, who rewrites the Christmas classic with the voice and humor of Jewish tradition. Woven into this long read-aloud story are elements and history of the holiday and the early twentieth century. The hero is Old Scroogemacher. He mistreats his immigrant workers until he is visited by the Rabbi of Hanukkah Past, who reminds him of the origins of the holiday. Then the Rabbi of Hanukkah Present lets him see the crowded tenements where his employees live. Finally, the Rabbi of Hanukkah Future clues him into current labor practices and shows him choices for his nephew Moshe's future. Yiddish phrases abound. There is much humor along the way in this story made for reading aloud. 2005, Hyperion, $16.99. Ages 6 to 10. Reviewer: Susie Wilde (Children's Literature).
Best Books:
Notable Children's Books of Jewish Content, 2006; Association of Jewish Librraies; United States
ISBN: 0-7868-5179-1
Hanukkah: Why is this Festival Special?
Jillian Powell
There is nothing really wrong with this book. It describes the historical reasons for the festival of Hanukkah, and how the holiday is celebrated today all over the world. It even explains how and why Jews have come to live all over the world. So far there are no problems, but on the double-page spread dealing with food there are a couple of inaccuracies. Fried doughnuts are eaten all over the world, although they may have originated in the Middle East, and the Hebrew word for a single doughnut is "sufganiya" the plural is "sufganiyot". Latkes, too, have become universal, and it's not only "Jews from Eastern Europe" who cook them -- our families may have originated in Eastern Europe, but we consider ourselves "from" the countries in which we live. But these are minor problems. A more important error in the book is the inclusion of the story of Judith. She had absolutely nothing to do with Hanukkah, although she was fighting the same enemies. And a rather more important question is: why include this minor holiday in a book of festivals? Do all four of the holidays in the series have something to do with light? They do not all occur at the same time of year, so the competition for preeminence seems to focus on Hanukkah and Christmas. If the author had wanted to focus on important Jewish festival, she might have chosen Passover as a festival more central to Jewish life. Not recommended. 2006, Smart Apple Media Imprint, Ages 8 to 11, $25.65. Reviewer: Judy Silverman
ISBN: 978-1-58340-944-2
Is It Hanukkah Yet?
Nancy Krulik
Illustrated by DyAnne DiSalvo-Ryan
This Step 1 Book for pre-schoolers through beginning readers utilizes a variation of "Are we there yet?" to introduce the rudiments of this happy holiday in a most delightful way. It also reinforces the important fact that Jewish holidays begin at sunset the night before the day most calendars name as their beginning date. Meanwhile, the child enjoys the buzz of anticipation as preparations progress, first with her mom, then with arriving grandparents, finally culminating in Daddy's arrival with its illustration of a night sky and the answer "Yes!" to her oft-repeated question. The drawings are a joy, simple and filled with love and excitement any youngster will absorb. 2000, Random, $3.99. Ages 2 to 7. Reviewer: Judy Chernak (Children's Literature).
While a little girl anxiously awaits the start of Hanukkah, she helps her mother polish the menorah, put out the candles, and prepare the latkes. Together they read the story of the Maccabees and the origin of the holiday. Grandma and Grandpa arrive and finally Dad. As the sun goes down, the holiday celebration begins. Words that may be difficult to pronounce are listed in a box opposite the title page. A "Step into Reading" Step 1 book. An opening note to parents explains the goals of each book in the series and the grades and reading levels. 2000, Random House, $11.99 and $3.99. Ages 3 to 6. Reviewer: Marilyn Courtot (Children's Literature).
ISBN: 0-375-80286-X
ISBN: 0-375-90286-4
It's Hanukkah Time!
Latifa Berry Kropf
Photographs by Tod Cohen
A basic primer for the Hanukkah holiday, this bright, cheerful hardcover book features lots of photographs and very few words, making it ideal for the very young. Through the charming photos we can follow the preparations for this well-loved Festival of Lights. A class of pre-school children delights in setting up the menorah, preparing invitations for their grandparents, wrapping gifts, decorating the classroom, making sufganiot (fried donuts), and then welcoming their guests to the party. Candles are lit with a blessing, included with music at the back of the book along with the recipe for sufganiot. After a fun-filled party, complete with spinning the dreidel (top), dancing the horah (Israeli dance) and reading stories about Hanukkah, the adorable happy faces end their party by singing Hanukah songs. So all bases are covered in this joyous book, making it a good multi-cultural vehicle for the general classroom as well as the Jewish one. 2004, Kar-Ben, Ages 2 to 6, $12.95. Reviewer: Judy Chernak (Children's Literature).
ISBN: 1-58013-120-4
Anita Ganeri
This is a beautifully designed book filled with excellent photographs to illustrate its lively text and many interesting sidebars. A new volume in the A Year of Festivals series, which includes those for Buddhist, Christian, Hindu, Muslim and Sikh religions, it provides an accurate accounting of ten major festivals within Judaism. This reviewer found the information well chosen and the customs nicely explained. There are also crafts, special prayers and ways to celebrate, food activities, and a song sprinkled throughout, and the book concludes with a Festival Calendar illustrating the lunar month cycle of the Jewish calendar and a glossary. The ample photographs are quite beautiful and are particularly to be noted for their coverage of the customs, costumes and environment of the various branches of Judaism. One unfortunate error crept in: The Purim story is placed in "Persia (modern Iraq)" whereas it should read "Iran." Iraq is more correctly identified on an earlier page as "Babylon (modern Iraq)," a powerful city that ruled the country of Mesopotamia. 2004 (orig. 2003), Smart Apple Media, Ages 8 to 12, $24.25. Reviewer: Judy Chernak (Children's Literature).
ISBN: 1-58340-373-6
The Miracle of Hanukkah
Seymour Chwast
Illustrations by Seymour Chwast
In spare language, Chwast tells the story of how a band of Jews led by the Maccabees resisted King Antiochus IV's efforts to replace their religion with idol worship 2,100 years ago. The text includes small but telling facts that will help children better understand Hanukkah's significance: for example, that the Jerusalem temple was the only Jewish temple in the world at the time (this was the era before synagogues), and that Antiochus required statues of the Greek god Zeus to be erected in the temple. What makes this book different from other simple retellings of the Hannukah story is Chwast's stepped-page format, in which beginning pages of the book are smaller than subsequent pages. This format reveals portions of multiple pages at once. Artwork on the overlapping pages lines up in a neat and precise way, which lends a unifying, but also rather monotonous and static, feel to the book. 2006, Blue Apple Books, Ages 4 to 10, $14.95. Reviewer: Debbie Levy
ISBN: 1-59354-157-0
Mrs. Greenberg's Messy Hanukkah
Linda Glaser
Illustrated by Nancy Cote
Hanukkah is about candles, and gifts, and dreidels to spin, and latkes to eat. But what about the behind-the-scenes work necessary to produce all this fun? Finally, a realistic book that paints a picture of Rachel and the glorious mess she makes when she goes to celebrate Hanukkah with her elderly neighbor. Rachel's parents, you see, won't be hosting a party till the end of the week, and Rachel just can't wait that long for potato latkes. So she decides to let Mrs. Greenberg in on the fun, Mrs. Greenberg with her perfectly neat house that nobody ever messes up. After Rachel has many mishaps, most of which end of on the nice, clean floor or drifting around the beautiful, shiny room, finally Mrs. Greenberg gives up trying to clean up as they go along. She has just settled, exhausted, into an easy chair when Rachel's parents come to retrieve their daughter. You can imagine what they say when they see the colossal mess, portrayed in quite charming pictures! But all's well that ends well, and everyone pitches in to clean up while the latkes are frying. "Now this feels like Hanukkah!" beams Mrs. Greenberg. I think you will agree. 2004, Whitman, Ages 6 to 8, $15.95. Reviewer: Judy Chernak (Children's Literature).
ISBN: 0-8075-5297-6
My First Menorah
Salina Yoon
A board book features a cut-out rectangle on each page so that when the reader turns the page, a flame shape from the left becomes a candle on the left. In this way, each candle that is added and lit on the menorah provides visual support for what night of Hanukkah is being celebrated. The accurate information in this book seems aimed at an older preschooler than the usual board-book audience but for those children already familiar with the eight days of the Jewish holiday, the book helps refresh or reinforce knowledge of the various customs of the holiday. The flames of each candle are in an eye-catching sparkly foil and each small illustration on the text side of the page features a picture families can talk about. 2005, Little Simon, Ages 2 to 6, $7.99. Reviewer: Susan Hepler
ISBN: 0689-87746-9
ISBN: 0-689-87746-3
Monica Hughes
Illustrated by Jeffrey Allon
This series of religious festivals is presented as a child's diary of the celebration--preparations, special foods, special gifts. The photographs are warm, lively portrayals of a single family practicing a particular faith--Christianity (Christmas), Divali (Hindu), Id-al-Fitr (Muslim), Rosh Hashanah and Hanukkah (Jewish). However, there is no explanation of any of the holidays or the traditions, such as the reason for lighting eight candles or eating potato pancakes cooked in oil. This means the unique nature of each holiday is left out and there is a certain sameness to all the holidays--families get together, give presents to each other and eat a big meal together. There is a short glossary and index but no explanatory text for teachers or parents. Classes with children representing diverse faith traditions might find the series useful as a model for children to make scrapbooks of their own family and religious celebrations, but every book in the series needs additional information to be complete. 2004, Raintree, $18.56. Ages 3 to 6. Reviewer: Karen Leggett (Children's Literature).
ISBN: 1-41090-638-8
ISBN: 1-41090-664-7
One Candle
Eve Bunting
Illustrated by K. Wendy Popp
This deeply moving story shows that even during mankind's darkest hours, faith will see us through. At a family's Hanukkah celebration, Grandma and Great-Aunt Rose tell the story of how they created a holiday miracle in the hell of the Nazi concentration camps. The two smuggled a potato, some margarine and matches into their barracks and lit a single Hanukkah flame that "lifted us to the stars." As Grandma speaks, she hollows out a potato, fills it with oil and lights it to show that she and her sister survived and kept their family's light burning. The ritual "has to do with being strong in the bad time and remembering it in the good time," the young narrator muses. "And for the women in Grandma's barracks and the others who didn't live to come out." Bunting's deceptively simple words weave a tapestry of pain, hope and ultimate triumph. It is a stirring work of literature, no matter which religion you practice. Popp's illustrations beautifully depict the family's love and faith. 2004 (orig. 2002), Joanna Cotler Books/HarperCollins, $15.99 and $5.99. Ages 4 to 8. Reviewer: Donna Freedman (Children's Literature).
ISBN 0-689-81860-2
Best Books:
Children's Catalog, Eighteenth Edition, Supplement, 2003 ; H.W. Wilson; United States
Awards, Honors, Prizes:
Sydney Taylor Book Awards Honor Book 2002 Older Readers United States
State and Provincial Reading Lists:
Black-Eyed Susan Book Award, 2003-2004 ; Nominee; Picture Book; Maryland
ISBN: 0-06-028116-2
ISBN: 0-06-028115-4
On the First Night of Chanukah
Cecily Kaiser
Illustrations by Brian Schatell
One menorah, two latkes hot, three Stars of David, and more: the festive nights of Chanukah spring to life as the gifts mount up in this lively text, humorously set to the tune of "The Twelve Days of Christmas." Cecily Kaiser bypasses the usual explanations to provide a lighthearted introduction to the Jewish holiday and its traditions of chocolate gelt (coins), spinning dreidels, candle lighting ceremony, and family gatherings. Illustrations by Brian Schatell bring to life a contemporary family with all of its modern mayhem, from pets underfoot to a familial talent for juggling and balancing a variety of objects. With the Maccabee Playhouse finger puppet theater and one line of dialog the only reference to the historical event celebrated annually, this festive picture book is a fun introduction to this holiday for kids of all ages, but additional books will be needed if an in-depth study of Chanukah is desired. For families or groups already familiar with this traditional celebration, the sprightly text and cartoon-style illustrations will be a welcome addition to their collection of Chanukah books. 2007, Cartwheel Books/Scholastic Inc, Ages 4 to 8, $3.99. Reviewer: Keri Collins (Children's Literature).
ISBN: 978-0-439-75802-4
ISBN: 0-439-75802-5
Sam I Am
Ilene Cooper
The Goodman's Christmas tree (also known as the "Hanukah bush") has come crashing down. So, too, has the peace about religion that has existed in their household. Mrs. Goodman, a Christian, opts not to put back up the tree and starts attending church services weekly. Mr. Goodman, a Jew, suggests the family celebrate Hanukah and begins to visit his mother on Sundays. The Goodman children, including twelve-year-old Sam, are caught in the crossfire. Sam, especially, has a lot of questions about religion. His best friend, Avi, is preparing for his bar mitzvah, and Sam knows that he would be doing the same if he were Jewish. Their seventh grade class is beginning a unit on the Holocaust, and Sam discovers that he, too, would have been targeted by the Nazis. Personally, he does not understand how religion can divide people like his mom and his dad or his two grandmothers. Why does religion cause discord? Why can't people practicing different religions get along? On a larger scale, he is deeply troubled by the Holocaust. How did it happen? Where was God? Sam is searching for the answers--both for himself and his family. Ilene Cooper portrays Sam with sense and sensitivity. He is a believable, insightful character dealing with common adolescent issues such as friendship and dating even as he struggles with the larger issues of religion and family. There are no easy answers in this book--as there shouldn't be. 2004, Scholastic, $15.95. Ages 10 to 14. Reviewer: Heidi Hauser Green (Children's Literature).
ISBN: 0-439-43967-1
Spin the Dreidel!
Alexander Cooper
Illustrated by Claudine Gévry
This sturdy book has a built in dreidel. The basics of how it is used to play a game are explained, and it is clear that the kids are having fun. Chocolate covered in gold foil serves as the coins used to play the game and the happy winner can take it all. The rhyming text will appeal to the younger set-it isn't great poetry, but it scans well. The last page recaps the significance of Chanukah and the miracle that took place more than 2,000 years ago when the Maccabees defeated the Greeks and reclaimed the Temple and lit the menorah. Oil that was only supposed to last for one day lasted for eight-the amount of time it took to get a new supply. A good gift for the holiday season. 2004, Little Simon/Simon & Schuster, Ages 3 to 6, $7.99. Reviewer: Marilyn Courtot
ISBN: 0-689-86430-2
The Stone Lamp : Eight Stories of Hanukkah Through History
Karen Hesse
Illustrated by Brian Pinkney
Yes, it is a Hanukkah book. And no, it is not just a Hanukkah book. This beautifully designed volume, a picture book for older readers, presents eight vignettes from the long history of a persecuted people, each framed and accompanied by a free verse story told in the first person by a survivor. It's a gripping combination, compelling in its personalization of each sad chapter in Jewish history. Represented are the Crusades and York, England Massacre of 1190; the Burning of the Books by papal order in Paris, 1242; The Inquisition of Spain and Portugal, 1546; the Muslim forced conversions and the False Messiah, Turkey, 1666; the Pogroms of Russia, 1883; Kristallnacht, Austria, 1938; the British return of the ship Exodus to Germany, 1947; and the Assassination of Yitzhak Rabin, Israel, 1995. These wrenching tales of tragedy, bravely illustrated in deep pigments by award-winning artist Pinkney, begin with Judah Maccabee's light-filled victory over the Syrians in 164 B.C.E. and end with the uplifting lines, "Sometimes a flame refuses to go out...So burns the Light of the Jewish People. So burn the Lights of Hanukkah." Truly a very special book to add to the portfolio of Newbery Medal winner and MacArthur Fellow Karen Hesse. 2003, Hyperion, $18.99. Ages 9 to 13. Reviewer: Judy Chernak (Children's Literature).
ISBN: 0786806192
ISBN: 0786825316
Where Is Baby's Dreidel?
Karen Katz
This lift-the-flap board book continues Katz's perfect-for-toddlers books. The board pages are highlighted with glitter-foil, so lifting the "curtains" on the first page reveals a glittery menorah. Baby is searching for a lost dreidel. The large illustrations of "baby" are not gender specific so this book will serve very well for him or her. Each page asks a question that can be answered by lifting the flap. "Is it under the table?" Upon lifting the table cloth one sees "No! Look there are the Hanukkah candles!" Potato pancakes hide behind the egg carton, gold coins can be found under the fruit bowl and on the last page all of the objects PLUS the lost dreidel are found in the living room. "Yes! And now we can start our Hanukkah celebration!" Little ones can begin to appreciate some of the components of celebrating this holiday while refining their manual dexterity.
2007, Little Simon/Simon & Schuster, Ages 3 mo. to 2 years, $6.99. Reviewer: Sheilah Egan (Children's Literature).
ISBN: 978-1-4169-3623-7
ISBN: 1-4169-3623-8
For reviews of Hanukkah book from previous years, click on the following links:
2003
2000
1999
Updated 11/27/07
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