5 comments about Holidays Around the World: Celebrate Hanukkah: With Light, Latkes, and Dreidels (Holidays Around the World).

1. Full-color photographs and an attractive layout combine with an interesting, informative text to create a stunning introduction to Hanukkah focusing on light, Jewish identity, freedom, and the celebration of miracles. The photographs include contemporary Jews celebrating Hanukkah in Israel, India, Peru, Uganda, Poland, Los Angeles, Ghana, and Rome, and are all paired with descriptive captions. Phrases like "It was a miracle," "We are proud to be Jewish" and "We share the light in our hearts" are integrated into each page spread. The impressive "More About Hanukkah" section includes basic facts, instructions for lighting the menorah and playing dreidel, a potato latke recipe, books and websites for further reading, a glossary, and a world map indicating the places where the photos were taken. Part of National Geographic's "Holidays Around the World" series, this will be a welcome addition for all libraries. Jewish libraries in particular will anxiously await the upcoming titles on Passover and Rosh Hashanah. Ages 6 and up. Reviewed by Rachel Kamin



2. Although I've heard the Hanukkah story many, many times, I enjoyed reading this book with my children to experience the many ways this holiday and history is celebrated throughout the world. The author relates the shared story in a beautiful, poignant and delightful way.



3. This book was a delight to read with both my 7 year old and 10 year old daughters.
   
   Each page launched us into a discussion about our own traditions, as well as Judaism in general.
   
   We discussed our love of latkes, and our tradtion to share them with Grandma and Grandpa.
   
   My daughters also discussed the desire to put the words "I am proud to be Jewish" in the window. We also taked about the possibility of visiting Israel together.
   
   This beautifully written book inspired us to take pride in our traditions, and to learn more about Jews around the world.



4. This is a lovely book with clear, fluid prose and gorgeous photographs. I loved the fact that Jews from such a wide range of countries were depicted and the sense of reverence yet childlike excitement that shines through the whole book.



5. Books explaining the celebration of Hanukkah abound - who would have thought there was anything new to say to children on this topic? However, Heiligman's excellent book, published by National Geographic as part of the Holidays around the World series, offers a unique perspective. The historical roots of the story are told succinctly, and the rest of the book centers around how the holiday is celebrated. What sets this book apart are the first-rate, full-page photographs that depict Jews celebrating Hanukkah all over the world. In places as far-flung as South Korea, Uganda and Peru, the story of Hanukkah is still alive and still holds meaning. Through the photos, it becomes clear that although these Jews are living in a variety of cultures and countries, they all celebrate the holiday in much the same way.
   
   In addition, unusually thorough end notes supplement the text. Here is a summary of facts, information on how to light a menorah, a simple, yet exacting recipe for making latkes, and complete instructions on how to play dreidel. The bibliography and glossary include valuable resources and definitions, and a world map spotlights the countries where the book's photographs were taken. Finally, there is a wonderfully written afterword about Hanukkah's meaning and message written by Rabbi Shira Stern,who consulted in the writing of the book. Highly recommended for synagogue, school and public libraries. REVIEWED BY NANCY AUSTEIN (Temple Emanu-El, Dallas, TX)

2 comments about It's a Miracle!: A Hanukkah Storybook.

1. Most Hanukkah books for children do one of two things: they either tell the traditional story of the Macabees directly, or they depict modern-day parents and/or grandparents telling children the story while engaging in traditional holiday activities. While such books are necessary, I prefer something a little more original, like Stephanie Spinner's delightfully warm and funny 'It's a Miracle!'. Although it's intended for ages 4 to 7, it is a winner for children of any age - and for adults.

   Six-and-a-half-year old Owen Block has just been appointed his family's O.C.L. (Official Candle Lighter). Every night after he lights the candles and gets into bed, his Grandma Karen tells him special bedtime stories for the holiday, all wonderful. They range from one about a WWII soldier who called all five Jewish families in the small town where his wife was hospitalized to pray for her (and she was cured!) to one about an alien who is reminded of his planet's four moons by the Hanukkah lights to one about a dentist with a talking parrot named Dreidel. I'm not going to tell you all of them, but as most readers (and eventually Owen as well) can figure out, all of Grandma Karen's stories are about members of Owen's own family. Except maybe for the alien, but you never know. And Owen then has a VERY special surprise waiting for him when Hanukkah ends!

   In between the stories, Owen eats latkes, receives Hanukkah gelt, shows a non-Jewish friend how to light the candles (the friend thinks it's 'cool'), and plays dreidel.

   In keeping with its original approach to holiday storytelling, another thing I really like about this book is that its Jewish family defies a lot of stereotypes, with a female rabbi cousin (whose brother studies wolves in Alaska!) and a horseback-riding, cowboy boot-wearing Jewish grandmother.

   The illustrations by Jill McElmurry are in keeping with the zaniness of the Block family and their stories. My favorite is the one of the whole family together at the dinner table on the last night of Hanukkah, each with a icon representing Grandma Karen's story above their heads, such as Torah scroll for Cousin Shira, a telephone linking Uncle Ralph and Aunt Edna, and a rattle for Dad (I'm not going to explain that - you have to read the book!).

   At the end there is also a brief description of the traditional Hanukkah story (naturally), transliterations of the holiday blessings, and a glossary of Hebrew terms.

   This is a good introduction to Hanukkah for young children because its imagination, humor and very likable characters make it memorable, although obviously a fuller telling of the traditional story will also be required. My favorite Hanukkah story of all time is Eric Kimmel's 'Herschel and the Hanukkah Goblins', and that author has also written another winner called 'Zigazak'. I also recommend Fran Manushkin's 'Latkes and Applesauce'. In the meantime, both kids and their parents will be quite happy to spend Hanukkah with this warm and funky family.




2. I just bought this book as a gift for a family member, but after reading it to my daughter, I may pick up another copy for her. I love that the book isn't directly about the Hannukah story itself, but about a little boy and his family Hannukah celebrations. The characters in the book are terrific. Owen is a very believable almost-seven-year-old and his Grandma Karen is the Grandma we all wish we had. The seven stories within the story keep the reader going through the eight nights of Hannukah and each is delightful by itself. However, they come together very nicely at the end of the book.
   
   One thing I really like about this book is that Christmas is also mentioned. Owen explains to his friend Buster that his family has a Menorah instead of a Christmas tree. Buster thinks it's "cool" that Owen gets to light the candles himself. Christmas lights and decorations are also central to one of Grandma Karen's stories. One of my favorite illustrations shows a neighborhood of houses decorated for the holidays, some with Christmas lights and others with Menorahs.
   
   The wonderful illustrations really add to the charm of this book. I think kids and adults will enjoy "It's A Miracle" over and over, year after year.

1 comments about Alexandra's Scroll: The Story of the First Hanukkah.

1. Told from a young girl's point of view, this gorgeous book describes how the first Hanukkah came to be. There are details about using a reed pen and writing on papyrus that add historical accuracy to the vivid story. Best for ages 9 and up but smaller excerpts could be adapted for younger children.

3 comments about Private Joel and the Sewell Mountain Seder (Passover).

1. This book, written for young readers, is full of life and hope and deep humanity. I loved it, not only for its interesting story of life as a Civil War soldier, but for its warmth and reminder that even under adversity, it is possible to live as a full human being. The text and illustrations sing together, making the characters come alive. It's one of Fireside's best.



2. Based on a true story, this historical fiction is set in the year 1862, during the Civil War. Private J. A. Joel was part of a Jewish company of Union soldiers, camped out in West Virginia. With only two weeks away before Passover, Private Joel and his friends were homesick for family, and wanted to have their own Seder, or traditional Jewish Passover meal. The private and some of his fellow Jewish soldiers write a letter to their commander, William S. Rosencrans, asking for permission for a short leave so that they could prepare for and celebrate their traditional Seder. They are given permission, and are joined by several African American former slaves that now fight for the Union. With the help of a kindly Jewish sutler, supplies were procured and sent back to the men for their meal. Improvisation was the name of the game as the soldiers substituted ingredients that were on hand near their encampment for the traditional meal. Were these Jewish soldiers successful in holding their Passover Seder? Did it go off without any problems? Did Commander Rosencrans really have his spoon bend almost in half from his battle with a matzah ball? Find out by reading this excellent book!
   
   Author Bryna Fireside has done an excellent job of weaving a true story into a page-turning chapter book. I found this fascinating as a story and educational regarding the Jewish Passover celebration. The excellent illustrations by Shawn Costello make you feel as if you knew each soldier personally since their facial expressions throughout are so realistic and become truly humorous when accompanied by Bryna's funny dialog of the soldiers after they've had a few too many sips of cider. This is a wonderful story about the loneliness of the soldiers as they fought so far from home and missed family, friends, and a chance to celebrate their faith. I found this book to be very touching, realistic, and educational. This book is a keeper!



3. I bought this book for my almost 8 year old grandson for Passover and it turned out to be a wonderful history lesson. He loved reading the book to me and he was fascinated by the Civil War story. It brought that era to life for him

2 comments about The Magic Menorah: A Modern Chanukah Tale.

1. Donna Diamond illustrates The Magic Menorah, a wonderfully told and modern Chanukah story, which will appeal to ages 7-10. Stanley hates Chanukah: he has to deal with noisy relatives, clean the house, and finds little to celebrate. When he finds an antique menorah and a genie, he is taken on a time trip which demonstrates the value of Chanukah in his life.



2. Stanley Green never looked forward to Chanukah. He felt it was more trouble than it was worth. All his relatives came to his house with their sloppy hugs and kisses, his little cousins fought and yelled, got into his things, and made a big mess. There was too much cooking, and his arm ached from grating potatoes and chopping onions for the latkes. And there was too much cleaning before the celebration, and even more afterwards. Worst of all, on Chanukah, a supposedly happy holiday, his Grandpa Abe was always quiet and very sad. This year something new was added to the usual routine. Stanley was sent up to the attic to find an old wrapped package in the large trunk. He'd never seen it before and with his curiosity getting the better of him, carefully opened the brown paper to find a tarnished menorah. As he began to wipe off the dust, he wondered why anyone would want this old thing. Just as he finished examining it more closely, and polishing the shammash until it glowed, the floor began to shake, a big puff of smoke erupted, and a very old man appeared in front of him..... Jane Breskin Zalben has written a lovely and memorable Chanukah story, with a simple and gentle message, that won't be lost on young readers. Her engaging and entertaining text, complete with yiddish words and expressions, is complemented by Donna Diamond's old photograph-like artwork, and together they've authored a tender and poignant story of love, family, and the true meaning of happiness. There's even a glossary included at the end of the story, to help with the yiddish and enhance learning. Perfect as a reading book for youngsters 8 and older, The Magic Menorah makes an even better read-aloud story the entire family can share and enjoy together.

3 comments about Runaway Dreidel!.

1. With nods to "Twas the night before" and the Runaway Ginderbread Man and Runaway Ricecake, etc, this is a rhyming story about the cultural celebration of Hanukkah, a celebration of grated potatoes, family and dreidels. A boy plays with a shiny new dreidel, that spins and spins out the door; spinning past challahs that are two for a dollah... Spins from city to country to ocean to sky, with fun illustrations along the way.



2. "'Twas the first night of Chanukah and on the fifth floor,/There was holiday hustling and bustling galore./Papa was shining the silver menorah,/Mama was wrapping a gift for Aunt Dora./Grandma was slicing up two chocolate babkas,/Grandpa was grating potatoes for latkes./Sister was stirring the soup with a ladle,/And I at her feet spun my shiny new dreidel..." And with that our young narrator's holiday top takes off, spinning, out of control, through the apartment, down the stairs and through the city streets, on out to the country, past farms and valleys, over the ocean and up to the sky, where it becomes a glittering star..... Leslea Newman's engaging, rollicking, chain of events text is filled with lilting rhyme, rhythm, energy, and joy. Kyrsten Brooker's clever, sparkling multi-media artwork is bold and busy, and rich in vibrant color, wonderful facial expressions, and humorous, eye-catching detail. Perfect for youngsters 3-7, Runaway Dreidel! is a captivating, fun-filled, celebratory romp. "Happy Chanukah to all, and to all a good night."



3. With such wonderful illustrations, and a mostly enjoyable text, it's too bad that this book gets its inspiration from "Twas The Night Before Christmas". Jewish parents work hard teaching their children that Chanukah IS NOT the Jewish Christmas. This book doesn't help. There are much better choices out there.

2 comments about Jewish Holiday Games for Little Hands (Activity Books).

1. The basic issue here is that the authors attempt to "sell" Judaism to young people by superficially (and in the tackiest of ways) stamping Jewish symbols on Americanized games. This practice is most commonly used today by Jewish Americans to make Hannukah (a minor Jewish holiday) as much like Christmas as possible so that American Jewish children do not abandon their "faith" to join the crowd. The effect, of course, is to mutate any legitimacy and honesty in a child's experimentation with the Jewish faith. It is not that far removed from Pokemon. The cover of the book says it all. Don't bother opening it.



2. This book successfully incorporates Jewish culture with American culture for hands on activities--Not necessarily a bad thing, especially if you're a Jewish American. Good ideas for keeping younger boys (girls) busy when out of school for the Holydays. This book is not meant to teach Torah or deep spiritual significance of the Holydays--It is just a good activity idea book, nothing more, nothing less. My kids had fun with it!

5 comments about The Only One Club.

1. Engagingly written by Jane Nailboff and nicely illustrated by Jeff Hopkins, The Only One Club is the story of a young girl named Jennifer, who is the only Jewish student in her first-grade class. When the other first graders are making Christmas decorations, the teacher tells jennifer that she can make Hanukah decorations instead, and be the first to hang them on the classroom windows. Happy to be singled out, Jennifer creates "The Only One Club". When her classmates want to join her exclusive club, she resists at first - then realizes each of her friends is also "the only one" at something, and makes badges for everyone, celebrating each person's unique qualities. The friendly illustrations emphasize an upbeat and positive message about the value of differences and the importance of tolerance and acceptance.



2. Differences in race, religion, politics, ideas and lifestyles have given birth to such an enormous amount of negative media these days. In the newspapers we read and the news programs we watch, we are suffocated by it all. What an absolute pleasure to read such a positive expression of being different. Jane Naliboff creates a beautiful story wonderfully written which should be required reading for all!



3. The Only One Club explores our innate desires to be part of a group, all while we wish to celebrate our individuality.
   
   Jennifer is in first grade and all the children are making Christmas decorations. When Jennifer wants to make Hanukah decorations her teacher encourages her in her project and allows her to proudly display her art. When she goes home that night she decides to start the "Only One Club" of which she is the only member.
   
   "I want to be in it, too," Steven whined. "I must be the only one of something."
   
   Soon all the children want to be in the club and start wearing badges to proclaim their individuality.
   
   The Only One Club is a lovely book to teach children about diversity in a school setting. The art creates a multicultural setting and the true-to-life dialogue is creative and comforting.
   
   ~The Rebecca Review



4. THE ONLY ONE CLUB by, Jane Naliboff
   Reviewed by, Joshua
   
   
   The Only One Club by, Jane Naliboff is an exciting children's book. I liked this book because its about a little girl name Jennifer who is Jewish and everybody isn't. So she goes home and makes The Only One Club because she feels left out. In addition she made the club badge and I liked that.
   
   
   The plot is interesting. Then Jennifer was happy now that she made a club but nobody was in it. So, everyone asked to be in it and she said, "no." I really didn't like that part.
   
   
   The setting is at her house and classroom. That's not really exciting but the classroom is a little.
   This book doesn't have any slang so that's why it's a good children's book.
   
   
   The best part was at the end when Jennifer gave everyone a club badge. She then at the very end gave her teacher a badge too. So now, nobody was left out. Now everybody was happy even though they were different.
   
   
   This was a great book overall but I didn't like the theme of the book. But I liked the very end when the teacher got the badge. This book is fun for kids 5-8. This story is good for kids who are left out in school. This story teaches kids a lesson not to leave other kids out.
   
   
   



5. I am a pediatrician and have copies of this book in my exam rooms. It is the book most commonly commented on by parents as being a wonderful children's book.

No comments about How the Rosh Hashanah Challah Became Round.

2 comments about When Mindy Saved Hanukkah (Scholastic Bookshelf).

1. We have about 10 Channukah books at our house, but none come close to capturing the spirit of this holiday evident in "When Mindy Saved Hanukkah." The story presumes a knowledge of the reason for Channukah-so you still need at least one other good book about the story of Channukah. But this book can stand on its own as an example of heroics, a model of family, and a spirit of giving. My kids love this book and we read it all year long, but because of the well written prose and the wry way the story unfolds, I enjoy it every time, as much as they do. Even more importantly, my kids sort of believe this story and my 3 year old son insists we look for the cat in the sanctuary at our synangogue, since he reasons one must exist in every temple.



2. If your children enjoy the Littles or the Borrowers, they'll love the Kleins. They are a tiny family living a big family's home and need to gather supplies for the holiday. There's just one problem...the big family owns a cat!