Graphic, vibrant artwork and die-cuts in the shape of candles combine to create this informative and elegant book about one of the most joyous Jewish holidays. The symbols of Hanukkah, the Festival of Lights, are visually presented to stunning effect as young children learn to count in three different languages from one to eight. Die-cuts of colorful candles--one for each night of Hanukkah--against rich black backgrounds add up one by one with each turn of the page. The importance of the menorah, shamash candle, dreidels, and more are explained in this simple retelling of the story of Hanukkah
Amazon.com Review
The Festival of Lights, or Hanukkah, celebrates the rededication of the Jewish temple after a group of ancient heroes defended their right to worship as they wished. This handsome little counting book honors the most joyful of Jewish holidays, and teaches readers how to count from one to eight in English, Hebrew, and Yiddish. With every page, another die-cut menorah candle appears, as well as the spelling and pronunciation of the ascending numbers in each language. On the opposite page of each two-page spread, symbols of Hanukkah are featured against bold, colorful backdrops: "one Hanukkah menorah," "four dreidels," "seven potato pancakes," etc., along with the Hebrew and Yiddish terms. Author Emily Sper shares her childhood memories of lighting the Hanukkah menorah, and a brief, age-appropriate story explains the symbols and meanings behind the holiday. This is a book best read together with a loving grownup who can elaborate on the rituals and stories of the Festival of Lights. (Ages 3 to 7) --Emilie Coulter
