One Candle: A Hanukkah Holiday Book for Kids
What’s inside...
For one family, the traditional Hanukkah celebration holds a deeper meaning. Amidst the food and festivities, Grandma and Great-Aunt Rose share a story they recount each year about perseverance during the darkest hours of the Holocaust. They describe how they continued to honor Hanukkah in the only way they could, reinforcing the values of tradition and family. Their story highlights the importance of remembering both the tragedies and triumphs of the past, providing hope for the future.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
4-8
Length
40 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What do you think the candle symbolizes in the story?
How do you feel about the traditions portrayed in the book?
Why is it important for the family to remember their history?
Can you think of a family tradition that means a lot to you?
How do the characters in the book show courage and resilience?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their thoughts and feelings about the traditions in the book and relate them to your own family traditions.
Discuss the importance of history and memory in the book, and ask your child why they think it's important to remember the past.
Highlight the themes of resilience and courage in the story, and ask your child to share a time when they had to be brave.
Use the story as an opportunity to teach your child about different cultural celebrations and the values they embody.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of family traditions
Explanation: The story centers around a family’s Hanukkah celebration, showcasing how passing down rituals like lighting the menorah strengthens family bonds.
Real-World Application: Children can appreciate and engage in their own family traditions, fostering a sense of belonging and identity.
Example Lesson: Resilience in adversity
Explanation: The grandmother in the story shares her past experiences in a concentration camp, demonstrating strength during tough times.
Real-World Application: This teaches children to remain hopeful and resilient when facing challenges in their own lives.
Example Lesson: The value of freedom
Explanation: The book highlights the significance of the Hanukkah story and the fight for liberation in the grandmother’s narrative, underscoring the value of freedom.
Real-World Application: Children learn to value and be grateful for their freedoms, and understand the importance of fighting for justice in society.
Example Lesson: Sharing and empathy
Explanation: Through the family’s sharing of stories and celebrations, the book showcases empathy and understanding between generations.
Real-World Application: It encourages children to listen and learn from others' experiences, promoting empathy and emotional intelligence.