SAN DIEGO — I can recommend two enjoyable holiday books for young readers to enjoy on the holidays and all year long!
The Littlest Candle-A Hanukkah Story by Rabbi’s Kerry and Jesse Olitzky and illustrated by Jen Kostman, (published by Kalaniot Books) is packed full of information and good feelings. It is the first night of Hanukkah and all of the candles are competing to be lit. All except Little Flicker, who sits in the back of the drawer, observing quietly. He knows he’s too small to be considered special enough to be lit on the first night. As the candles defend their reasons for being first, little bits of the Hanukkah story are woven into their discussion. When the Shabbat and Havdalah candles join in, information about their important jobs are revealed as well. One by one, the candles remember how Little Flicker has helped them. When Waxy says they need to choose a Shamash helper candle, the decision becomes an easy one. A well-rounded back matter section provides additional information about Hanukkah, how to light the candles, and even includes the blessings. A book filled with facts and fun to delight children ages 5-8.
Happy Birthday, Trees! By Karen Rostoker-Gruber and illustrated by Holly Sterling (Published by Kar Ben Publishing) is a look at a different Jewish holiday. This board book, designed for younger readers, ages 2-5, is filled with happy children as they plant a tree for Tu B’Shevat. We follow them as they dig a hole, place the tree inside and fill it with dirt. They water it, then watch it through the seasons until it springs forth with sweet-smelling flowers. The repetitive rhythm will delight children and encourage them to help sing the last line on each page. It is a fun read and one children will ask for again and again.
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Marcia Berneger is a retired elementary school teacher as well as a teacher at Torah school. She is the author of such children’s books as Buster the Little Garbage Truck, and A Dreidel in Time.