Happy Hanukkah

The holiday season is upon us.  I was planning on posting Christmas books today, but after I looked at my calendar, I realized that Hanukkah books are a bit more timely!  Happy Hanukkah to all those who celebrate!

Latkes and Applesauce: A Hanukkah Story by Fran Manushkin; Illustrated by Robin Spowart - When a blizzard arrives on the first night of Hanukkah, it brings with it unexpected guests.  A Hanukkah miracle occurs when these guests lead the family to the ingredients they need for their traditional feast of latkes and applesauce.  This heartwarming story includes a reference section that describes Hanukkah, includes a recipe for potato latkes, and gives the rules for playing dreidel.

Runaway Dreidel! by Leslea Newman; Illustrated by Kyrsten Brooker - In this Chanukah version of The Night Before Christmas, a runaway dreidel spins fast and far as the whole family chases it from their city apartment, through the countryside, and all the way to the ocean.  What happens next is another Chanukah miracle.  The oil and cut paper illustrations give this book its charm.

The Chanukkah Guest by Eric A. Kimmel; Illustrated by Giora Carmi - Ninety-seven year old Bubba Brayna makes the best latkes in the village.  But she doesn't see or hear as well as she used to.  As she prepares for her guests, she hears a knock on the door, and on seeing the Rabbi, welcomes him in.  But is it the Rabbi or an imposter?  In the end, it doesn't matter. Everyone has a happy Chanukkah.