November 17 – Get Ready for Hanukkah

About the Holiday

For children, preparations for Hanukkah are full of magic and wonder, and finding books that mirror their excitement can make the holiday even more special. Today’s book sparkles with an imaginative spin on the eight nights of Hanukkah and its the traditions of light, remembrance, and giving.

Thank you to Orchard Books for sharing a digital copy of this book with me for review!

A Dragon for Hanukkah

Written by Sarah Mlynowski | Illustrated by Ariel Landy

A girl, excited to be celebrating Hanukkah with her family, invites readers along as she receives gifts on nights one through seven. On the first night of Hanukkah, her parents give her a baby dragon, whom she calls Nerry and allows to sleep on her bed. On the second night, her Bubbie gives her a rainbow that sweeps her from her room and down the stairs, through the kitchen and out the door, where Nerry catches her before she slides away.

She receives a treasure chest full of gold and gems, a merry-go-round from her best friend, and a time machine from her cousin that transports them “back two thousand years” to meet the Maccabees. On the sixth night, her Zaidie gives her rocket boots, and on the seventh night, her younger brother presents her with her very own unicorn. Actually it was three energetic unicorns, including a baby that liked to eat socks.

But it’s the eighth night that the girl has been looking forward to the most. On that night, it’s her turn to give gifts, and she’s cooking up a tasty treat. All finished in the kitchen, she heeds her mother’s call to clean up her room. She places her new stuffed dragon on her bed for nap time, returns a rainbow of crayons to their box, spins her dreidel one more time before placing it next to a bowlful of gelt, slides “The Story of Hanukkah” back onto the bookshelf, stuffs her starry socks in the drawer, and hangs up the unicorn pictures from her brother. Then “because it’s a time for giving,” she fills a Tzedakah donation box with toys and books.

Soon it’s time for dinner and her family and friends gather around the table to “sing songs, play dreidel, and eat latkes, the tasty treat [she] made.” And, she says’ it is doing these things “which makes this last night, the eighth night, the most magical night of Hanukkah.”

Following the story, the girl and Nerry engage in a dialogue about the history of Hanukkah, how to play dreidel, giving gifts, traditional Hanukkah foods, and even where the dragon’s name comes from.

Sarah Mlynowski blends imagination and tradition in her clever and enchanting story that immerses children in the joy, meaning, and excitement of Hanukkah. While readers logically know that a living dragon, full merry-go-round, or unicorn can’t really be a gift, Mlynowski’s twist when the girl begins cleaning her room comes as a delightful surprise. Her inclusion of a tzedakah box extends the idea of giving past the holiday in a way that resonates with children.

Ariel Landy’s exuberant illustrations sweep kids into the story and keep them riveted to see each new gift, from sweet Nerry to those rambunctious unicorns as well as the real gifts that so charm the little girl. Landy’s vibrant colors, warm tones, and wealth of details will keep children lingering over the pages as they celebrate Hanukkah with the young girl who is excitedly taking part in and contributing to the holiday. On subsequent readings, kids may enjoy pointing out clues to the true nature of some of the imaginative gifts.

A Dragon for Hanukkah is sure to be a favorite for those who celebrate Hanukkah, have family or friends who do, or who want to learn more about the holiday. This book would make a much-loved gift and addition to home and library collections.

Ages 4 – 8

Orchard Books, 2024 | ISBN 978-1338897524

About the Author

Sarah Mlynowski is the New York Times and USA Today bestselling author and coauthor of over fifty books for teens, tweens, kids, and adults, including the Whatever After series, the Best Wishes series, and the Upside-Down Magic series, which was adapted into a Disney Channel movie. Originally from Montreal, Sarah now lives in Los Angeles with her family. Visit her online at sarahm.com.

About the Illustrator

Ariel Landy has been illustrating her whole life, starting with crayon portraits of her cats, dogs, and hamsters. She is the illustrator of the Good Dog series and picture books such as Gitty and Kvetch. Originally from Boston, she currently lives in the south of France with her family. Her favorite Hanukkah song is “I Have a Little Dreidel”. Visit her at ariellandy.com.

Get Ready for Hanukkah Activities

A Dragon for Hanukkah Coloring Page and Puzzle

Children can enjoy these fun activities from Orchard Books/Scholastic while they look forward to celebrating Hanukkah!

A Dragon for Hanukkah Coloring Page | A Dragon for Hanukkah Word Search

You can purchase A Dragon for Hanukkah from these booksellers

Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Bookshop

Picture Book Review

March 12 – Get Ready for Passover

Posted by Kath Carroll

About the Holiday

Passover, or Pesach in Hebrew, is one of the most sacred Jewish holidays and celebrates the Jews’ liberation from slavery in Egypt and their freedom as a nation under Moses. The holiday begins on the fourteenth day of the Hebrew month Nisan and continues for seven days in Israel or eight days outside of Israell. The holiday begins with a seder meal, for which family and friends gather to remember their history, have symbolic dishes, and celebrate the joy of freedom. Games for children, a reading of the Exodus story, and other meaningful traditions also mark the holiday.

Thank you to Random House Books for Children and Barbara Fisch at Blue Slip Media for gifting me a copy of Next Year in the White House for review.

Next Year in the White House: Barack Obama’s First Presidential Seder

By Richard Michelson | Illustrated by E.B. Lewis

Review by Dorothy Levine

“Malia and Sasha watch White House chefs arrange gefilte fish on fine china. Matzoh ball soup simmers in a sterling silver tureen…Bo wags his tail and sniffs as new smells waft through the Old Family Dining Room.”

Michelson’s story begins right in the action, with everyone preparing for the White House Seder. Barack Obama’s daughter Sasha says, “I bet Bo is wondering why this night is different from all other nights.” She is jokingly referencing the four questions recited by the youngest child in a Passover seder. And why is this night different, you may be wondering? Read on to find out!

When Eric, Arun, and Herbie set out on the campaign trail with Senator Obama as he ran for president in 2008, they did not expect to find themselves seated in the White House celebrating Passover for the next eight years. These young men joined the campaign trail in hopes that “they could help [Obama] make America a place where all people—regardless of their race, gender or religion—would have an equal opportunity to succeed.” But, “helping others doesn’t mean you don’t get homesick, or hungry, or tired.”

Holidays are especially a time when homesickness can hit for folks far from home. And this was the case for Eric, Arun, and Herbie. When Passover came around, they decided to have their own Passover ceremony, or Seder, in the basement of the hotel where they were staying. The trio managed to snag some matzoh, macaroons and Manishewitz wine along with Haggadahs (booklets of the prayers, songs and story of Passover) to tell the story of Passover—the exodus of enslaved Jews in Egypt who escaped through a parting sea to freedom, one of many miracles that ensured their eventual getaway. “Tonight, they would celebrate the sweet taste of freedom and pledge not to rest until all people are free.”

When the three young men rose for the tradition of letting the prophet, Elijah, in through the door they were surprised to find Barack Obama on the other side, requesting to join the gathering. Obama brought to the table connections between the Passover freedom tale and the civil rights movement—how activists throughout time have drawn from the Passover pilgrimage in their protests and speeches. He told of how enslaved Black laborers were the ones who carried the first building blocks for the White House, like how the ancient Pharaoh had made the enslaved Israelites build his stone cities. When Eric called out a traditional Passover expression “Next year in Jerusalem,” a phrase that has come to signify hope for a better tomorrow, Barack replied, “Next year in the White House!”

In the following pages, we return to the prologue scene of the book—a description of the first White House Seder, performed in 2009, hundreds of years after both the first White House Christmas and Easter ceremonies. We read of two previously enslaved peoples joining together in resistance and solidarity, to celebrate in the historic White House, where neither group would have been invited years ago. We learn about the traditional Passover foods and games for children—such as piping hot matzoh ball soup and the race to find the afikomen, a hidden piece of matzoh wrapped in a special cloth. And we’re invited in as dozens of people gather to celebrate and cherish the holiday’s call of freedom. When the prize for finding the hidden afikomen is a dog toy for Bo, Sasha remarks, “Now Bo definitely knows why this night is different from all other nights.”

Richard Michelson’s writing is thought provoking, lively and packed with themes of hope and resilience interspersed with knowledge of the Passover traditions. The story contains many references to Passover phrases and themes, such as the call for the homesick, tired, and hungry to come eat and the four questions, which are both part of Passover prayers and motifs shared in Michelson’s story.

Michelson adds a prologue scene to draw readers in, as well as extensive back matter including: a note from Herbie Ziskend, Eric Lesser, and Arum Chaudhary; an annotated page of the Haggadah used at the first White House Seder; more information about the attendees and connections between Black History and Passover; a detailed explanation of Passover traditions; and a special Passover dessert recipe from Arun. His writing instills a sense of social justice, with undertones of the importance of intersectional empowerment and unity.

E.B. Lewis’s signature watercolor spreads bring the book to life with distinctly recognizable characters displaying detailed facial expressions and richly colored backgrounds. Readers will feel immersed in the comradery of the dinner table scenes and the crowds at protests and campaign speeches. The illustrative masterpiece depicting the parting of the sea in the background when Eric, Arun, and Herbie retell the Passover story will inspire awe and mystery. Close-ups of each of the characters also intersperse text and larger detailed scenes. When Arun, Herbie, and Eric are introduced, they each receive their own small illustrative snapshot, as these three unlikely characters become center stage for a Passover miracle story.

Next Year in the White House brings a unique and important historical moment to light and a new story to the table to re-read time and time again, as is tradition with the Passover tale.

Ages 4 – 8+

Crown Books for Young Readers, 2025 | ISBN 978-0593711583

About the Author

Richard Michelson is a poet, children’s book author, and art dealer whose children’s books have been listed among the 10 Best Books of the Year by The New York Times, Publishers Weekly, and The New Yorker; and among the 12 Best Books of the Decade by Amazon.com. He has been a finalist for the Massachusetts Book Award, the Harlem Book Fest Wheatley Award, and the National Jewish Book Award, as well as receiving two Skipping Stones Multicultural Book Awards, a National Parenting Publication Gold Medal and an International Reading Association Teacher’s Choice Award. In 2009 Michelson received both a Sydney Taylor Gold and Silver Medal from the Association of Jewish Librarians, the only author so honored in AJL’s 50 year history. Michelson received his 2nd Silver Medal in 2017 and his 2nd Gold Medal in 2018. Additionally, Michelson won the 2017 National Jewish Book Award. Michelson is the owner of R. Michelson Galleries, the host of Northampton Poetry Radio, and the current Poet Laureate of Northampton. Massachusetts. You can learn more by visiting him at richardmichelson.com and on Facebook.

About the Illustrator

E.B. Lewis has illustrated over seventy books for children, including the New York Times Best Illustrated Book Award, Kirkus Best Illustrated Book Award, and the Golden Kite Honor Award winner Jabari Asim’s Preaching to the Chickens as well as the Caldecott Honor Award Winner, Jacqueline Woodson’s Coming on Home Soon. He is also a five-time Coretta Scott King winner.
Presently, Lewis teaches at the Pennsylvania Academy of Fine Arts. He is also a member of The Society of Illustrators in New York City, and an artist member of Salamagundi Art Club of New York. Learn more about E.B. Lewis and his work at eblewis.com.

Get Ready for Passover Activity

8 Days of Activity Plans from 18 Doors

Celebrate Passover with your family and these Activity Plan Ideas from 18 Doors! For each of the 8 Days you’ll find a song or video, a craft, and a recipe to help you have a fun Passover!

You can purchase Next Year at the White House from these booksellers

Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Bookshop (to support your local independent bookstore)

Picture Book Review

February 25 – Get Ready for Passover

Posted by Kath Carroll

About the Holiday

Passover is the Jewish spring festival that celebrates the Jews’ liberation from slavery in Egypt. The holiday begins on the fourteenth day of the Hebrew month Nisan, which is the first ecclesiastical month and occurs in March or April. Passover is observed for seven days in Israel and for eight days for Jewish people living outside of Israel. The holiday begins with a seder meal, at which family and friends gather to remember their history, eat symbolic dishes, and celebrate the joy of freedom. This year Passover is celebrated from April 12 – 20.

Thank you to Kar-Ben Publishing for sharing a digital copy of Zayde Babysits before Passover with me.

Zayde Babysits before Passover

Written by Jane Sutton | Illustrated by Kate Chappell

While Ruthie’s mommy and daddy go to Bubbe’s house to prepare for Passover, Zayde is staying with Ruthie at her house. It’s the first time Zayde has ever babysat Ruthie, but he doesn’t have to devise fun activities, or think up places to take her because there’s a long list of tasks to be accomplished stuck to the refrigerator.

First on the list is to make a few Passover decorations for Zayde and Bubbe’s house. Ruthie’s mommy has suggested finger painting. “Oy!” exclaims Zayde, as the paint escapes the paper onto the tablecloth and Ruthie’s shirt, and even the cat, who joins the fun with some paw painting. The next chores on the list take Ruthie and Zayde into town—to the grocery store for parsley and to the playground “so Ruthie can use up energy” and sit still at the seder later that night. But who’s riding in the cart and who’s slipping down the slide?

Back home, Zayde’s been instructed to use up more of Ruthie’s energy, but here, too, who’s doing what is topsy-turvy. Even sweeping up any missed breadcrumbs in the kitchen finds Ruthie pulling Zayde out from under the cupboard. And when Mommy said they should eat a big lunch because dinner will be late, did she really mean that mountain of food?

Following nap time and bath time, Ruthie and Zayde leave to meet up with the rest of the family. With Zayde leading the seder, it comes off without a hitch. “Ruthie asks the Four Questions. She sings ‘Dayenu’ and hums along with the other songs.” Bubbe’s matzah ball soup is yummy, and Ruthie even “finds the afikomen. Yay!” After everyone leaves, Ruthie tells Zayde she had fun that day and asks if he’ll babysit again. Of course Zayde’s answer is “‘I can’t wait!'”

Jane Sutton’s endearing, family Passover story is riotous fun as first-time babysitter Zayde goes all in while fulfilling his pre-Passover seder chores. Kids will enjoy chiming in with Zayde’s exclamations of “Oy!” as things go amiss and will love learning Passover traditions as they spend time with Ruthie and Zayde around town and at home. The burgeoning relationship between Zayde and Ruthie warms the heart.

Kate Chappell’s charming illustrations, juxtaposed with Sutton’s straightforward storytelling, bring to life Zayde and Ruthie’s playful antics and will have kids giggling from page to page. Images of the family’s Passover celebration are uplifting and tender.

A madcap and joyful story for families to share at Passover and whenever grandparents and grandkids get together, Zayde Babysits before Passover would make a wonderful gift and addition to home bookshelves as well as a delightful choice for school and public libraries.

Ages 4 – 9

Kar-Ben Publishing, 2025 | ISBN 979-8765619889

A Chat with Jane Sutton

Jane Sutton is an award-winning author of picture books, including Gracie Brings Back Bubbe’s Smile, Paulie’s Passover Predicament, and Esther’s Hanukkah Disaster as well as novels for children. She grew up on Long Island and attended Brandeis University. Jane lives with her husband in the Boston area, as do their grown children and families. She is grateful to get lots of chances to babysit her grandchildren and hopes she makes fewer mistakes than Ruthie’s Zayde. You can visit Jane at jane-sutton.com.

I’m so excited to be chatting with you again about a new book, Jane! The last time we did an interview, it was for What’s Up with this Chicken? and you were a new grandmother to Caleb. So much has happened in the years since! You and your husband are grandparents to four grandchildren now who all live close to you. Has becoming a grandmother influenced the way you write or the subjects you write about?

Come to think of it, my last 2 books have been about a grandparent and a grandchild. And my next book was inspired by a grandchild. I guess it’s natural that I would write about my favorite subject, my grandchildren!

Kate Chappell’s illustrations are so whimsical and really highlight the humor in the story. Kate lives in London. Did you have much interaction with her during the publishing process? Do you have a favorite spread? Which one and what do you like best about it?

I agree. Her whimsical illustrations do just what you said! We didn’t interact directly. My suggestions for art went through the publisher. My favorite spread is also the cover, with Zayde sitting in the shopping cart as Ruthie pushes. It’s so silly and funny, and I love the details Kate includes. It’s my grandchildren’s favorite too!

The images on your blog from your family vacations and other fun times you have together are so infused with love and joy and really make me smile. They made me wonder—does it appear that any of your grandkids have inherited your sense of humor? If so can you share a story?

They’re all funny and witty in their individual ways. One joke that the oldest three grandchildren and I share started on a week-long family vacation. Each morning, we’d greet each other with big smiles while saying, “Not you again!”

How did you get started writing for children? When did you know that this is what you wanted to pursue?

In college I had an assignment in a sociology class to do something we’d always wanted to do and keep a journal about our experience as we did it. I chose to write a series of children’s stories and found that I enjoyed the writing immensely.

Not only do you write picture books, but you’ve written three middle-grade novels and a young-adult novel. You’ve recently revised and published a new edition of your popular middle grade novel, Me and the Weirdos, after it was turned into a musical by two high school seniors in Utah. I understand you attended the premiere of the play. Tell me more about this book and the experience of seeing it transformed into a musical.

In Me and the Weirdos, Cindy Krinkle feels like the only normal person in her family. She kind of has a point. Some examples: Her father rides a bike with an umbrella on it as he sings opera loudly and off-key. Her mother gargles with orange juice, and her sister has a pet sea urchin. Cindy’s plans to “un-weird” the rest of her family all backfire in amusing ways, and she eventually comes to appreciate them the way they are. Attending the musical was amazing. The lovely students who created it were so talented. They wrote the script and lyrics, composed the music, and directed the play with a middle school cast. The show was both entertaining and true to the book’s humor and message that it’s OK to be different.

It’s clear that you love sharing your love of writing and your books with kids through programs at schools and libraries. Can you give us a peek at what one of your presentations is like? Do you have an anecdote from any program that you’d like to share?

I share my writing process, including more or fewer details depending on the age group. I emphasize the importance of revision, something I strongly believe in and which makes teachers nod and smile. And lest writing seem like too much work, I make sure I express my joy in writing.

I believe young readers have another book to look forward to in 2026! Would you like to give them a little glimpse of what’s to come?

It will be my first board book, one I hope that will make people of all ages smile.

Thanks so much, Jane for this wonderful chat! It’s been terrific catching up! I wish you all the best with Zayde Babysits before Passover and can’t wait to see your board book. I’m sure it will bring a smile!

You can purchase Zayde Babysits before Passover at these booksellers

Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Bookshop (to support your local independent bookstore)

Picture Book Review

November 21 – Get Ready for Hanukkah

Posted by Kath Carroll

About the Holiday

To get into the spin of this eight-day celebration of light and remembrance, we have a book perfect for young ones getting ready to learn a new skill and a bit more about this Jewish holiday. Little Dreidel Learns to Spin takes the stage with a rhythmic, twirling tale packed with Yiddish words and glossary in the back to learn more.

Thank you to Rebecca Gardyn Levington and Cartwheel Books for sharing a digital copy of Little Dreidel Learns to Spin with me for review consideration. All opinions on the book are my own.

Review by Dorothy Levine

Little Dreidel Learns to Spin

Written by Rebecca Gardyn Levington | Illustrated by Taryn Johnson

Little Dreidel’s clay body is all dry, so she is ready to start twirling and spinning just like her older cousins. But, when she tries, “she flails and fumble-tumbles. ‘I’m such a klutz! I stink at this’ she mopes and mumble tumbles.” Dreidel’s grandmother, her Bubbie, tries to console her, but to no avail. As the rest of the family gets ready for Hanukkah—cooking up some latkes, setting up the menorah—Little Dreidel collects herself.

celebrate-picture-books-picture-book-review-little-dreidel-learns-to-spin-ready-for-party

Image copyright Taryn Johnson, 2024, text copyright Rebecca Gardyn Levington, 2024. Courtesy of Cartwheel Books.

After some careful observation of her cousins’ techniques, she learns about momentum and gains some more of her own. She’s ready to try again. At first too slow, then too fast, Little Dreidel “plotzes on the ground” again and again. But when day turns to night, and Hanukkah is about to begin, a miracle occurs: “dizzy-dazed” Little Dreidel competently joins the rest of the cousin crew spinning into celebration!

celebrate-picture-books-picture-book-review-little-dreidel-learns-to-spin-unsteady

Image copyright Taryn Johnson, 2024, text copyright Rebecca Gardyn Levington, 2024. Courtesy of Cartwheel Books.

The story of Little Dreidel Learns to Spin subtly mirrors the Hanukkah story—a narrative that centers on a miracle of oil lasting to light a lamp for eight days rather than just one and success against all odds. Gardyn Levington takes a simple tale of determination and weaves in Hanukkah charm, rhymes, Yiddish vocabulary and witty puns—like when Little Dreidel spins awry and almost breaks her shin, the Hebrew letter painted on one side of the top and denoting the worst luck of the four facings.

Johnson’s illustrations add layers of humor and context to the story. For example, Little Dreidel’s face is painted on the less lucky shin side, whereas Bubbie’s face is painted on gimel— the luckiest letter of the four dreidel faces. The first page depicts Little Dreidel blow-drying his top half with a hair dryer, as the story shares that Little Dreidel’s clay has just dried. Johnson depicts emotion cleverly and adorably through the expressions and body language of the Dreidel family. The pages are lush with color, with an emphasis on Hanukkah’s classic blues and yellows.

A sweet introduction to the traditions of Hanukkah and a natural way to teach children some common Yiddish words, Little Dreidel Learns to Spin would be the perfect addition to home collections and libraries.

Ages 3 – 5

Cartwheel Books, 2024 | ISBN 978-1338864625

About the Author

Rebecca Gardyn Levington is a children’s book author and poet with a penchant for penning playful picture books and poems. She lives in Summit, New Jersey. You can visit Rebecca at rebeccagardynlevington.com.

About the Illustrator

Taryn Johnson is an illustrator, animator, and designer who loves to bring a playful appreciation of nature to her work with bright colors, patterns, and a little imagination. Visit Taryn at tarynjohnson.com.

Get Ready for Hanukkah Activities

Photo courtesy of Crayola

Homemade Hanukkah Crafts

You can teach your very own homemade clay dreidel to spin or make a paper dreidel with these instructions from Crayola!

To find more Hanukkah themed activities—from making LEGO dreidels to tissue paper stained glass decorations to a creative shamash candle holder and more—visit PJ Library’s Hanukkah activities page!

celebrate-picture-books-picture-book-review-little-dreidel-learns-to-spin-cover

You can purchase Little Dreidel Learns to Spin from these booksellers

Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Bookshop (to support your local independent bookstore)

Picture Book Review

November 28 – Celebrate Hanukkah

Posted by Kath Carroll

About the Holiday

Hanukkah, the Festival of Lights, is the Jewish wintertime celebration that commemorates the victory of the small Maccabean army over the much more powerful Greek/Syrian forces and the rededication of the Holy Temple during the second century BCE. Hanukkah is celebrated for eight days in remembrance of the miracle of the oil lamp, which at the time only held enough oil for one day yet burned for eight days. This year Hanukkah takes place from December 10 through 18.

Thanks to Sterling Children’s Books for sharing a copy of The Ninth Night of Hanukkah with me for review consideration. All opinions on the book are my own.

The Ninth Night of Hanukkah

Written by Erica S. Perl | Illustrated by Shahar Kober

A family has just moved into their new apartment. It’s the first night of Hanukkah, but they can’t find their Hanukkah things amidst all the boxes. So, without the menorah or delicious latkes, Mom, Dad, Rachel, and Max sit on the floor eating pizza. “It was nice…but it didn’t feel quite like Hanukkah.” On the second night, they still hadn’t found the menorah, but Rachel and Max made one from a piece of wood, their jar of nuts and bolts, and some craft paint. It was all ready to light, when Mom discovered that they didn’t have the candles either.

celebrate-picture-books-picture-book-review-the-ninth-night-of-hanukkah-missing-menorah

Image copyright Shahar Kober, 2020, text copyright Erica S. Perl, 2020. Courtesy of Sterling Children’s Books.

With the stores closed, Rachel and Max went next door to apartment 2C. They introduced themselves to Mrs. Mendez and explained their situation. She offered the only candles she had—a box of birthday candles. “Dad lit the shamash. Max and Rachel each used it to light a candle.” Then they opened presents. While it was nice, it still “didn’t feel quite like Hanukkah.
On the third night, the “lucky latke pan” was nowhere to be found, but Max appeared with a steaming plate of French fries from Joe, the super, who lived downstairs.

By the fourth night of Hanukkah, Mom and Dad were beginning to think the box with their Hanukkah things had gotten lost. Max wanted to play dreidel, so while Mom called the moving company, Max and Rachel met the Watson twins, who didn’t have a dreidel, but they did have a toy that spun and spun. On the fifth night, Rachel and Max had made their own dreidel, “which meant they needed gelt.” On the fourth floor, Max and Rachel met Mr. Patel, who handed Max the only chocolate he had—a bag of chocolate chips. All of these substitutions were “nice…but it didn’t feel quite like Hanukkah.”

celebrate-picture-books-picture-book-review-the-ninth-night-of-hanukkah-shamash

Image copyright Shahar Kober, 2020, text copyright Erica S. Perl, 2020. Courtesy of Sterling Children’s Books.

Each night of Hanukkah Max and Rachel missed a different part of their Hanukkah celebration, and each night a new neighbor did the best they could to supply it. On the morning after the eighth night of Hanukkah, a delivery person showed up at the door with Mom’s guitar. She suggested a sing-along, but Rachel reminded her that Hanukkah was over. Max, however, had another idea and pointed to the ninth candle on the menorah. This gave Rachel an idea too, and she and Max whispered and planned. Then they waited. Soon “there was a knock on the door. And another. And another.”

When all the neighbors had gathered, Max and Rachel explained their Shamash Night celebration. Like the Shamash candle “helps light all the other candles,” they said, their new neighbors had helped them celebrate Hanukkah. “‘So we wanted to say thanks—to the Shamash and to you,’” Rachel said. Just then the delivery person appeared with the long-lost box. On the ninth night in their new home, Mom and Dad, Rachel and Max ate, played, sang, and danced with all of their new friends, “and best of all, it felt exactly like Hanukkah.”

An Author’s Note following the story tells about the history and tradition of the shamash candle and the idea that sparked the writing of The Ninth Night of Hanukkah. Erica S. Perl also provides a guide on how families can hold their own “Shamash Night.”

celebrate-picture-books-picture-book-review-the-ninth-night-of-hanukkah-party

Image copyright Shahar Kober, 2020, text copyright Erica S. Perl, 2020. Courtesy of Sterling Children’s Books.

Community, resilience, and children’s creativity infuse every page of Erica S. Perl’s story that’s a wonderful Hanukkah read as well as a story families will want to share all year around. The apartment-house setting and the family’s just-moved-in situation combine to create a charming microcosm of making friends, getting to know new neighbors, and discovering the generosity of strangers. Rachel and Max, creative, close-knit, and accommodating, will captivate kids as they go along on their scavenger hunts for the makings of a homey Hanukkah celebration.

Perl’s substitutions—from birthday candles to French fries to a ukulele will appeal to readers. The repeated phrase “It was nice, but it didn’t feel quite like Hanukkah” applies to many make-do conditions and will resonate with children. It also provides suspense and a nice counterpoint for when the night does finally fulfill the Hanukkah feeling. Max and Rachel’s “Shamash Night” offers a message of gratitude not only for things but for friendship.

Shahar Kober’s warm-toned illustrations mirror the heartfelt story and the kindness of the diverse group of neighbors as they provide workable solutions to Max and Rachel’s requests. Images of Rachel and Max creating a homemade menorah, dreidel, and wrapping paper may inspire kids to design their own Hanukkah or other holiday decorations and traditional items. Kober’s cartoon-style characters are expressive, demonstrating their disappointment in missing their well-loved Hanukkah things but more so their cheerful acceptance of what the neighbors can provide. Kids will enjoy watching the antics of the family’s cat, who likes to be in the middle of the action, but also is happy to make do with a moving box as a new napping spot.

A heartwarming and joyful Hanukkah story with messages of kindness, generosity, acceptance and a loving sibling relationship, The Ninth Night of Hanukkah is highly recommended for all home, school, and public library collections.

Ages 3 – 8 and up

Sterling Children’s Books, 2020 | ISBN 978-1454940883

Discover more about Erica S. Perl and her books on her website.

To learn more about Shahar Kober, his books, and his art, visit his website.

Celebrate Hanukkah Activity

celebrate-picture-books-picture-book-review-hanukkah-craft

Star of David Decoration

Kids can add a bit of sparkle to their Hanukkah celebrations with this Star of David craft.

Supplies

6 mini craft sticks
2 round lids from clear plastic deli containers
Silver glitter
Blue craft paint
Clear-drying glue
Thin ribbon or string, 8 – 10 inches long

Directions

To Make the Star of David

Paint the craft sticks with the blue paint, let dry
Glue three of the craft sticks together to form a triangle; repeat with the other three sticks
Glue the two triangles together to create a Star of David
Glue a short length of ribbon to the top back of the Star of David

To Make the Case

Apply a thin layer of clear-drying glue to the top, indented side of one of the lids
Sprinkle the lid with the glitter, let dry
When the glue is dry, center the Star of David in the lid with the ribbon trailing over the rim of the lid. The Star of David will be free hanging inside the case from the ribbon.
Glue the rim of the indented side of the second lid to the rim of the first lid
When dry, tie the ribbon into a loop for hanging

**You can find The Ninth Night of Hanukkah at these booksellers**

Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Books-a-Million

To support your local independent bookstore, order from

Bookshop | IndieBound

Picture Book Review

November 30 – Get Ready for Hanukkah

Posted by Kath Carroll

About the Holiday

The Ninth Night of Hanukkah

Written by Erica S. Perl | Illustrated by Shahar Kober

Image copyright Shahar Kober, 2020, text copyright Erica S. Perl, 2020. Courtesy of Sterling Children’s Books.

Ages 3 – 8 and up

Sterling Children’s Books, 2020 | ISBN 978-1454940883

Discover more about Erica S. Perl and her books on her website.

To learn more about Shahar Kober, his books, and his art, visit his website.

Get Ready for Hanukkah Activity

celebrate-picture-books-picture-book-review-hanukkah-craft

Star of David Decoration

Kids can add a bit of sparkle to their Hanukkah celebrations with this Star of David craft.

Supplies

6 mini craft sticks
2 round lids from clear plastic deli containers
Silver glitter
Blue craft paint
Clear-drying glue
Thin ribbon or string, 8 – 10 inches long

Directions

To Make the Star of David

Paint the craft sticks with the blue paint, let dry
Glue three of the craft sticks together to form a triangle; repeat with the other three sticks
Glue the two triangles together to create a Star of David
Glue a short length of ribbon to the top back of the Star of David

To Make the Case

Apply a thin layer of clear-drying glue to the top, indented side of one of the lids
Sprinkle the lid with the glitter, let dry
When the glue is dry, center the Star of David in the lid with the ribbon trailing over the rim of the lid. The Star of David will be free hanging inside the case from the ribbon.
Glue the rim of the indented side of the second lid to the rim of the first lid
When dry, tie the ribbon into a loop for hanging

**You can find The Ninth Night of Hanukkah at these booksellers**

Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Books-a-Million

To support your local independent bookstore, order from

Bookshop | IndieBound

Celebrate Hanukkah with These Books and Activity

Posted by Kath Carroll

About the Holiday

Celebrate the history, meaning, and fun of Hanukkah with your family and these books that are funny, moving, and full of kindness. Click on the title to be taken to the full review of each book. There’s a printable word search puzzle to enjoy too!

Esther’s Hanukkah Disaster

Written by Jane Sutton | Illustrated by Andy Rowland

Jane Sutton brings humor and meaning to her Hanukkah story that reveals the true nature of the holiday and friendship. With clever gift choices and a sweet plot twist, Sutton’s Esther’s Hanukkah Disaster will have kids giggling and empathizing as Esther’s plans go awry. Her easy-going delivery invites kids along on Esther’s shopping trip and sets up the jokes and final swap in a natural and engaging way. Sutton’s inclusion of Esther’s and her friend’s honest reactions to the gifts encourages discussion of how to choose gifts, how to make up for mistakes, how to graciously accept gifts, and more topics surrounding gift-giving.

Andy Rowland’s purple gorilla Esther is sweetly expressive even as she is a bit oblivious to the needs of her friends and clearly disgruntled when her gifts don’t work out. Kids will love the brightly colored illustrations loaded with details appropriate to Esther’s world, especially the bowls, drawers, and hangers of bananas, banana cookbooks, banana-decorated table cloth and even a banana-shaped teapot in her kitchen. The Jungle Store is a riff on big-box stores with multiple departments where shoppers finding everything from fish for a pelican to a book of Antelope Recipes for a lion to Ele-Wellie boots for an elephant.

Esther’s nighttime neighborhood is likewise beautifully drawn with lush foliage; hanging lanterns; wood, bamboo, and stone homes; and even a waterfall. The window of each friend’s home frames a menorah.

With its humorous take on a common mishap and loveable characters, Esther’s Hanukkah Disaster is a book kids will enjoy no matter what the gift-giving occasion is!

Ages 4 – 7

Kar-Ben Publishing, 2013 | ISBN 978-0761390435

Hanukkah Cookies with Sprinkles

Written by David A. Adler | Illustrated by Jeffery Ebbeler

David A. Adler’s touching story about a little girl who sees someone in need and generously provides help is a heartening story for Hanukkah and any time of year. Adler’s straightforward storytelling, told from Sara’s first-person point of view, invites young readers to look out the window with her and join her as she saves a cookie for the old man and goes on to provide more food and finally companionship to him. The fact that Mr. Berger is a member of Sara’s synagogue reminds readers that people in need of help of all kinds are part of our community, are part of us. Readers will be charmed by Mr. Berger’s circus past and will learn from him that the gifts we have to share with others do not always need to be monetary to have value.

Jeffery Ebbeler’s enchanting illustrations of the city, complete with an adorably narrow Sol’s Market, take readers into Sara’s world, where she sees examples of people in need and those who have plenty. Sara’s contemplations about Mr. Berger and his plight are shown as she considers the full bowl of fruit on her kitchen table, watches someone ask for two hot dogs at the corner cart, and decides to save her cookie at school while the other kids eat theirs and reach for seconds. These same kids, however, happily give up their snack the next day to fill Sara’s bag for Mr. Berger. Classroom scenes and the image of Sara showering her cookies with sprinkles are familiar for all children celebrating holidays at school and at home. The family’s joyful Hanukkah dinner is doubly fun as Mr. Berger performs tricks that even the cat tries to do.

A moving story for Hanukkah and for sharing the spirit of giving all through the year, Hanukkah Cookies with Sprinkles is a fantastic addition to all home, school, and public library bookshelves.

Ages 4 – 8

Apples & Honey Press, 2015 | ISBN 978-1681155005

Hanukkah Hamster

Written by Michelle Markel | Illustrated by André Ceolin

Immersed in the special yearning for family and togetherness the holidays bring, Michelle Markel’s touching story glows with kindness and empathy. The growing friendship between Edgar and Chickpea will tug at readers’ hearts just as it does for Edgar, who so hopes to keep the little hamster but also knows there may be someone in the city missing him. As the days pass, and Edgar, alone for Hanukkah, shares his traditions with the hamster, readers also become participants in the holiday. Children will be riveted to the increasing suspense, and the pitch-perfect solution is joyful and satisfying. Realistic dialogue and honestly portrayed emotions provides depth to this moving story.

From the tiny white lights lining main street to the first glimpse of the little hamster to Edgar’s cozy apartment with his menorah in the window, André Ceolin’s richly colored illustrations invite readers into Edgar’s life with his new friend, Chickpea. Chickpea is adorable as it nibbles on salad, poses for pictures, and curls up in its shredded paper bed. Images of Edgar lighting the menorah are luminous, and the Edgar and Chickpea’s smiles will spark happiness in readers’ hearts.

The portrayals of friendship, generosity, empathy, and family make Hanukkah Hamster a poignant story for all children to share not only at the holidays but all year around. The book would make a wonderful gift and much loved addition to home and school libraries.

Ages 4 – 7

Sleeping Bear Press, 2018 | ISBN 978-1585363995

The Story of Hanukkah

Written by David A. Adler | Illustrated by Jill Weber

With his exceptional storytelling skills, David A. Adler reveals the history of Hanukkah to children. In simple, yet compelling sentences, Adler clearly depicts the faith of the Jews and the dangers they faced from Antiochus and his army. Children will marvel over the astounding defeat of Antiochus’s soldiers at the hands of the Maccabees and be filled with awe as the Temple is rebuilt and the small amount of oil sustains the flame in the ner tamid for eight days. Children unfamiliar with Hanukkah celebrations will discover the meanings behind the traditional foods, dreidel game, and lighting of the Menorah in clear language full of the pride and emotions Jewish families feel during the holiday.

In her bright acrylic paintings Jill Weber brings to life the story of the Jews and the Maccabees, allowing children to fully experience the environment and perils of the time period. Her patchwork fields tended by farmers and shepherds give way to the majesty of the Temple with its central altar and glowing eternal flame. Weber’s battle scenes are particularly effective in presenting the destruction, fear, and final victory experienced by the Jews. Readers will be cheered by the joy depicted in the faces of the people celebrating the restoration of the Temple and the excitement of families observing Hanukkah today.

A recipe for Latkes as well as instructions on how to play Dreidel follow the text

The Story of Hanukkah is a wonderful introduction to the holiday for children learning their own heritage or for children discovering the traditions of friends, family, and others.

Ages 5 – 8

Holiday House, 2012 | ISBN 978-0823425471 (Paperback) | ISBN 978-0823440320 (Board Book)

Hanukkah Activity

Festival of Lights Word Search

Find 20 words related to Hanukkah celebrations in this printable Festival of Lights Word Search puzzle. Here’s the Solution.

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A Dragon for Hanukkah

Written by Sarah Mlynowski | Illustrated by Ariel Landy

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A Dragon for Hanukkah Coloring Page and Puzzle

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Review by Dorothy Levine

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Written by Jane Sutton | Illustrated by Kate Chappell

A Chat with Jane Sutton

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Review by Dorothy Levine

Little Dreidel Learns to Spin

Written by Rebecca Gardyn Levington | Illustrated by Taryn Johnson

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Homemade Hanukkah Crafts

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About the Holiday

The Ninth Night of Hanukkah

Written by Erica S. Perl | Illustrated by Shahar Kober

Celebrate Hanukkah Activity

Star of David Decoration

You can find The Ninth Night of Hanukkah at these booksellers

To support your local independent bookstore, order from

Share this:

About the Holiday

The Ninth Night of Hanukkah

Written by Erica S. Perl | Illustrated by Shahar Kober

Get Ready for Hanukkah Activity

Star of David Decoration

You can find The Ninth Night of Hanukkah at these booksellers

To support your local independent bookstore, order from

Share this:

About the Holiday

Hanukkah Activity

Festival of Lights Word Search

Share this:

**You can find The Ninth Night of Hanukkah at these booksellers**

**You can find The Ninth Night of Hanukkah at these booksellers**