Hanukkah is coming! The candles are ready, the ingredients for latkes have been purchased and plans are set for all 8 nights. I’m eager to share in this video, three books that would be a wonderful addition to your Hanukkah plans.
The Dreidel that Wouldn't Spin: A Toyshop Tale of Hanukkah
Author: Martha Seif Simpson
Illustrated by: Durga Yael Bernhard
This book is full of bold imaginative illustrations and tells the story of a magic dreidel. It won’t spin for two spoiled children, but what will happen when a child carries the spirit of the holiday in their heart? This book is a wonderful reminder that wonder will still occur for those who are open to it.
Author: Gretchen M. Everin
illustrated by: Rebecca Ashdown
In this cute story, a little girl is excited about her Hanukkah presents. She is sure that one of them will be the new pet she’s been hoping for. Instead what she gets each night is a different unusual item. On the last night, she’ll have to put them all together to really see what her present is.
Nathan Blows Out the Hanukkah Candles
Author: Tami Lehman-Wilzig and Nicole Katzman
Illustrated by: Jeremy Tugeau
This book is so good not only for the holiday but also for teaching about autism, as well as the importance of sibling relationships. Jacob is worried that his brother, who has autism, may embarrass him and blow out the Hanukkah candles. This book is a wonderful way to introduce children and their families to autism while also affirming the Jewish teaching of acceptance.
 | Kayla is a wife, mother and beach-loving book reader. She's a family photographer over at Kayla Rochelle Photography, and organizer of the Facebook group, Little One’s Literary Review. Her love of good books started as a child and only grew with the birth of her own daughters. Kayla's got an undying love of children's books with gorgeous illustrations and moral lessons. |
*This article was first published on Macaroni Kid Lower Manhattan.
