WNDB wishes a happy Hanukkah to those who celebrate! Below, here are ten books that highlight this holiday:
Hanukkah Haiku, written by Harriet Ziefert and illustrated by Karla Gudeon, uses the traditional Japanese poetic form to celebrate the eight nights of Hanukkah. There’s one haiku for each night, and stepped pages add one candle to the menorah every time the page is turned.
In The Golem’s Latkes on the first night of Hanukkah, Rabbi Judah has too much to do and too little time to do it. Before the rabbi leaves to visit the emperor, he tells his housemaid Basha that she can ask the golem to help. While the golem makes latkes, Basha decides to visit a friend. Basha is having so much fun with her friend, she doesn’t realize that latkes are pouring out of the rabbi’s house, sending people running! Will Rabbi Judah come up with a solution to control the golem before it’s too late? Written by Eric A. Kimmel and illustrated by Aaron Jasinski.
An original adventure featuring a traditional Jewish folk hero, Hershel and the Hanukkah Goblins (written by Eric Kimmel and illustrated by Trina Schart Hyman) has been a family favorite for decades and was named a Caldecott Honor book when it was originally published. Hyman’s leering goblins are equal parts terrifying and ridiculous as they match wits with Hershel, trying to keep him from lighting the menorah and celebrating Hanukkah.
When each family at the diverse Juniper Court apartment complex needs something to light up the dark of winter, the stumpy, lumpy candle provides a glow brighter than the fanciest taper, revealing the true spirit of each holiday it illuminates. Written by Jeron Ashford and illustrated by Stacey Schuett, Winter Candle touches upon multiple winter holidays, including Hanukkah.
A soldier tells George Washington the miraculous story of how a ragtag army of Jewish soldiers defeated a much larger force of powerful Greeks, a tale that provides just the kind of inspiration the General needs. Quietly beautiful watercolor illustrations draw a visual distinction between the frigid blue Pennsylvania night and the golden light of ancient Israel, which is further reflected in the warm glow of the Hanukkah candles. Hanukkah at Valley Forge is written by Stephen Krensky and illustrated by Greg Harlin.