The Story of Hanukkah
What’s inside...
Hanukkah is a wonderful time filled with games, food, family, and fun. It's also the celebration of an ancient miracle, and retelling and remembering the story of that miracle is an essential part of the holiday, for young and old. The story of the courageous Maccabees is retold in simple yet dramatic text, accompanied by vibrant paintings of the battle, the Temple of Jersualem, and the oil which miraculously burned for eight long nights. A traditional recipe for latkes is included, as are directions for the dreidel game, for readers who want to continue the festivities at home.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
3-7
Length
32 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What do you think Hanukkah represents for the characters in the story?
Why do you think the tradition of lighting candles is important during Hanukkah?
How do the characters show courage and perseverance in the story?
What is your favorite part of the Hanukkah celebration in the book and why?
If you could be part of the story, which character would you choose to be and what would you do?
Tip: Role play these questions
Set the scene for your child by briefly explaining the cultural significance of Hanukkah before diving into the book.
While reading, pause to ask your child how they think a character is feeling, especially during key moments in the story.
Encourage your child to express their thoughts on the book’s themes, and share your own perspectives to stimulate a two-way discussion.
To deepen the experience, consider together how your family’s holiday traditions compare or contrast to those in the book.
After finishing the book, encourage your child to draw or write about their favorite scene or character, fostering creative expression tied to the story.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of perseverance
Explanation: The Story of Hanukkah highlights the perseverance of the Jewish people as they fought to reclaim their temple and religious freedom.
Real-World Application: Children can apply the concept of perseverance in their daily activities such as completing challenging tasks or standing up for what they believe is right.
Example Lesson: Respect for cultural heritage
Explanation: This book celebrates Jewish history and traditions, teaching the significance of respecting and honoring one’s cultural heritage.
Real-World Application: Children learn to appreciate their own culture and the cultures of others, fostering a sense of respect and unity in diverse environments.
Example Lesson: The power of faith
Explanation: Faith plays a central role in The Story of Hanukkah, as it gave the Maccabees the strength to continue their struggle.
Real-World Application: This story can help children understand the importance of having faith during difficult times, which can be comforting and empowering.
Example Lesson: The value of teamwork
Explanation: The successful reclaiming of the temple was made possible by the collective effort of the Maccabees, showcasing the impact of working together towards a common goal.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to cooperate with others in group settings such as in school projects or team sports.