Educators

Latkes, gelt, and eight nights of presents!  The Jewish holiday Hanukkah literally lights up the home. The eight-day, 2,000-year-old holiday, also called the Festival of Lights, celebrates God’s glory, an ancient victory of the Jews over their enemies, and the freedom Jews enjoy today. It is a mainstay on the winter calendar. Begin by inspiring your students with the Hanukkah spirit by sharing its traditions and history with your class through these books. From learning about family traditions like making applesauce and latkes to discovering the rich history behind this important holiday, these books will begin to teach your class all about Hanukkah.

By Jacqueline Jules

(Kar-Ben Publishing)

In this Hanukkah manual for the contemporary Jewish family, holiday history, rituals, activities, songs, and recipes provide tools for creating meaningful family moments in the light of the menorah. The book includes brief reflections to read aloud before reciting the candle-lighting blessings on each of the eight nights of Hanukkah.

by Michelle Markel

(Sleeping Bear Press)

Hanukkah blessings abound when Edgar, a lonely taxi driver, discovers a lost hamster in the back of his cab and finds in it an unlikely friend. Softly falling snow and the warm candlelight of the menorah paint a tranquil picture; Edgar opens his heart, sharing treasured memories of his home in Tel Aviv, Israel, while searching for the missing pet’s owner. This is a charming holiday tale about family, friendship, joy, and gratitude.

by Emily Jenkins

(Schwartz & Wade)

The All-of-a-Kind Family gives a heartwarming glimpse of a Jewish immigrant family and their customs that is as relevant–and necessary—today. Meet the five girls (“all of a kind,” as their parents say), and join them back in 1912, on the Lower East Side of NYC, and watch as preparations for Hanukkah are made.