Hanukkah traditions highlighted in rhyming text. Large format picture book.

The text, prose or verse I don't really know, was absolutely horrible. The only redeeming quality this book has is the last page which gives a simple explanation of the story of Hanukkah that anyone can understand (young children) & the brief glossary that defines latkes, dreydel, menorah, & shamash very adequately for a young audience. I don't know how this book qualified for an award, but it sucked. (Sorry) ( )

This will be very helpful in my text set! I liked this book for two reasons. First, I am Jewish but do not celebrate this holiday so the use of illustration emphasized the traditional foods and preparations for dinner time. Being able to see what the foods looked like and how they were prepared and served gives the reader a greater understanding and insight into Jewish holiday. The writing also played a significant role throughout the book because it was very clear, organized and contained specific important information that Hanukkah incorporates. The writing and illustration worked hand in hand to allow the reader to explore the foods, atmosphere and family involvement during a special holiday! ( )

Describes the meanings and traditions of Hanukkah as five children and their family celebrate the holiday (from the summary).

In Roni Schotter’s “Hanukkah!” a family with five children gears up to celebrating Hanukkah. Then they do it too. Each member has its role, including the youngest, Moe, who must be about 4-5 years old. He is in the age group of the target audience. The good news is that by the end he manages to pronounce the name of the holiday properly. There is no bad news in this sweet little book, illustrated with very vivid colors by Marylin Hafner. The last page, as usual, includes a short description of four of the terms mentioned in the book: dreydel, menorah, latkes, and shamash. I enjoyed just looking at the pictures, because they are so much fun to flip through. The text rhymes the way adults imagine little kids would like it. But it worked on me too.