Jewish Americans

 

Realistic fiction

Non-fiction

Traditional

Biography

Historical fiction

Poetry

Fantasy

 

CLICK ON THE BOOK’S TITLE TO LINK TO amazon.com TO PURCHASE YOUR FAVORITE BOOKS.

 

NOTE: RECENTLY ADDED TITLES APPEAR IN  RED.

 

NOTE:  TITLES ADDED WINTER 2008/2009 APPEAR IN BLUE.

 

Realistic Fiction:

 

Adler, D. A. (1999). One yellow daffodil: A Hanukkah story. Illustrated by L. Bloom. New York: Voyager Books. (K-3)

 

A Holocaust survivor shares Hanukkah with a loving family that gives him the courage to remember. (amazon.com)

 

Blue, R. (1997). Good Yontif. A picture book of the Jewish year. Illustrated by L. Feldman. Brookfield, CT: Millbrook. (K-3))

 

Follow a Jewish family through the changing seasons in this richly illustrated book on Jewish holidays. (amazon.com)

 

Blume, J. (1991). Are you there, God? It’s me, Margaret. New York: Laurel Leaf. (4-6)

 

Margaret, almost twelve, experiences the difficulties of growing up and choosing a religion in Judy Blume’s popular novel. (Horn Book, 1991)

 

Carmi, D. (2002). Samir and Yonatan.  Blue Sky Press. (4-8)

 

Riding his bicycle down the market steps, a young Palestinian falls and smashes his knee so badly that he needs surgery. For the first time in his life, Samir leaves his home in the Occupied Territories to go to a Jewish hospital where an American doctor will operate on him. While waiting for the procedure, Samir gets to know the other children on his ward, all Jews. Beautiful Ludmilla is pining away for her home in Russia and refusing to eat. Razia hides under her bed in fear of her father. Hyperactive Tzahi can't urinate properly and, most importantly, Yonatan with the crippled arm introduces Samir to the stars, computer games, and the way imagination can take one away from a place of pain. As Samir thinks about the home he misses, details of his family life are revealed. Readers learn that his younger brother was killed, shot while playing in the street by a man wearing the same uniform that Tzahi’s brother wears when he visits. His older brother has gone to Kuwait to earn money and his mother works two jobs. His father has stopped talking. As the hospitalized children spend time together, they come to support one another, forming a team that crosses cultural boundaries. Samir and Yonatan take an illegal night outing to commandeer an office computer to play a game. Life in the hospital is described as clearly as life in the Occupied Territories and readers will sympathize with Samir’s fear and loneliness and welcome his new friendships. Written in Hebrew but published first in Germany, the book is smoothly translated and will have wide appeal. (School Library Journal)

 

Cohen, D. B.  (2008).  Engineer Ari and the Rosh Hashanah ride.  Illustrated by S. Kober.  Ben-Kar.  (K-2)

 

A sweet and creative Rosh Hashanah story based on the first historic train ride from Jaffa to Jerusalem in 1892, shortening the journey between the two cities from 3 days to 3 hours. Engineer Ari’s train is coming to Jerusalem collecting goodies along the way to celebrate the Jewish new year, and he learns an important lesson along the way.  (amazon.com)

 

Conway, D. C. (1994). Northern lights: A Hanukkah story. Illustrated by S. O. Hass. Rockville, MD: Kar-Ben Copies. (K-3)

 

When a storm grounds their plane, Sara and her dad celebrate the first night of Hanukkah with a Yupik Eskimo family. By the light of an oil lamp, they share stories, eat fried bread, and witness the colorful glow of the Northern Lights...a Hanukkah celebration after all. Warm, wonderful watercolors illuminate this eloquent story. (amazon.com)

 

da Costa, D. (2001).  Snow in Jerusalem.  Illustrated by C. Van Wright & Y. Hu. Albert Whitman.  (1-4)

 

Although they live in different quarters of Jerusalem, a Jewish boy and a Muslim boy are surprised to discover they have been caring for the same stray cat. (card catalog)

 

Edwards, M. (2004). Papa’s latkes.  Illustrated by S. Schuett. Candlewick. (K-2)

 

This is the first Chanukah since Mama’s death, and as Selma and her younger sister ready themselves for the holiday, they can’t help but remember the fun the family had preparing in years gone by. Then Papa arrives home with latke ingredients: potatoes, oil, and onions enough "to keep you crying till Passover.” But can they make latkes without Mama? Schuett’s thickly painted, double-page illustrations hark back decades to a simpler time. Each blends beautifully with quiet, unsentimental words that express grief, unspoken sadness, and fear of the future as well as the love the characters share. This is a stirring, tender portrait of beloved children and a single father doing his best to help his daughters celebrate their mother’s memory by building new traditions atop fondly remembered old ones: "Happy Chanukah, Mama.” (Booklist)

 

Fishman, C. G. (2001). On Hanukkah. Illustrated by M. W. Hall. New York: Aladdin Paperbacks. (K-3)

 

Learn about the Jewish celebration of light as a family participates in several activities for Hanukkah. (amazon.com)

 

Fishman, C. G. (2000). On Passover. Illustrated by M. W. Hall. New York: Aladdin Paperbacks. (K-3)

 

As her family prepares for Passover, a little girl learns about the many traditions which are part of the celebration of this holiday. (card catalog)

 

Fishman, C. G. (2000). On Purim. Illustrated by M. W. Hall. New York: Atheneum.

(K-3)

 

As her family sits down to make masks, a young girl knows it’s time for Purim, the holiday that celebrates how Queen Esther saved the Jewish people. It’s time for making hamantashen, pastries filled with poppy seeds and honey. Time to place these pastries in homemade paper gift baskets with candy and fruit. Time for the Purim carnival, for playing games and watching the Purim parade. And, of course, time to put on their new costumes and masks. (amazon.com)

 

Fishman, C. G. (2000). On Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur. Illustrated by M. W. Hall. New York: Aladdin Paperbacks. (K-3)

 

When the season shifts from summer to fall, the young narrator of this book knows it’s time to celebrate the High Holy Days. New Year’s cards are exchanged, the family gathers for a special holiday meal during Rosh Hashanah and they go to synagogue. Ten days later, Yom Kippur is observed and the family reflects on the past year and looks forward to the future. (amazon.com)

 

Fishman, C. G. (2001). On Shabbat. Illustrated by M. C. Hall. New York: Atheneum. (K-3)

 

Every Friday afternoon, as her father comes home with a bouquet of flowers and two loaves of fresh-baked challah bread, a young girl knows it’s time for Shabbat, the most important Jewish holiday. Shabbat celebrates the day God rested after creating the heavens, the Earth, and everything on it. On Shabbat, her family lights the Shabbat candles and invites the Shabbat Queen to come into her house. They sing songs, receive blessings from each other, and have a special meal. The next morning, they worship at the synagogue, and in the afternoon, they study the Torah and play games. When they see three stars in the sky, it is time for the Havdalah ceremony, which ends Shabbat, and a new week begins. (amazon.com)

 

Glaser, L. (2004). Mrs. Greenberg’s messy Hanukkah. Illustrated by N. Cote. Whitman. (K-2)

 

What’s the first night of Hanukkah without latkes? But Rachel’s parents are too busy to think about cooking, so Rachel pays a visit to elderly Mrs. Greenberg, whose sparkling kitchen begs to be invaded by an energetic little girl with potato pancakes on her mind. Pretty soon potatoes, flour, and eggs coat the floor, and an exhausted Mrs. Greenberg has collapsed in a chair. When Rachel’s parents arrive, they focus on the mess, and a tearful Rachel apologizes. Then Mrs. Greenberg comes to the rescue, declaring firmly, "My house hasn’t felt this lived in in years.” Pattern and bright color abound in Cote’s lighthearted, cartoonlike pictures, which channel the glow of the menorah on the table right onto the happy faces of the characters as they sit down to eat Rachel’s latkes. A recipe, at the front of the book, completes this lively package, suggested for children who are already familiar with the holiday. (Booklist)

 

Goldin,, B. D.  (2007). The best Hanukkah ever.  Illustrated by A. Katz.  Cavendish.  (1-3)

 

A family gives each other humorous gifts when it misunderstands the rabbi’s advice. (amazon.com)

 

Goldin, B. D. (2002). Night lights: A Sukkot story. Illustrated by L. August. New York: Union of American Hebrew Congregations. (K-3)

 

In a tender story about the Jewish harvest holiday, Sukkot, young Daniel overcomes his fear of the dark with the help of his sister, who teaches him about the stars in the night sky and the Jewish ancestors they represent. (amazon.com)

                 

Goldin, B. D. (1999). While the candles burn: Eight stories for Hanukkah.  Illustrated by E. Greenfield. New York: Puffin. (K-3)

.

Timeless and contemporary stories for Hanukkah. (amazon.com)

 

Goldin, B., D. (1995). The world’s birthday: A Rosh Hashanah story. Illustrated by J. Winter. New York: Voyager Books. (K-3)

 

Daniel is determined to have a birthday party for the world to celebrate Rosh Hashanah. (card catalog)

 

Hurwitz, J. (2000). Baseball fever. Illustrated by R. Cruz. New York: Camelot. (4-6)

 

Ezra Feldman, almost ten, likes baseball more than anything else in the world. But his father cannot understand why his son would rather rot his brains watching men swinging big wooden sticks than read a book or play chess. Can an unwanted car trip, a grumpy old professor, and a surprising chess victory help father and son find a little common ground--and convince Ezra's dad that cheering for the national pastime isn't completely off base? (amazon.com)

 

Kimmelman, L. (1994). Hanukkah lights, Hanukkah nights. Illustrated by J. Kimmelman. New York: HarperTrophy. (K-2)

 

A young reader’s introduction to the symbols and traditions of Hannukah is also a counting book that follows a family’s joyful observance through the eight days. (amazon.com)

 

Kimmelman, L. (1997). Hooray! It’s Passover. Illustrated by J. Kimmelman. New York: HarperTrophy. (K-2)

 

A loving family comes together to celebrate Passover, during which they sing songs, recite prayers, eat special foods, and play a Passover game. (amazon.com)

 

Kimmelman, L. (1998). Sound the shofar! A story for Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur.  Illustrated by J. Himmelman. Harpercollins Juvenile Books. (K-3)

 

An extended family celebrates the Days of Awe. Information about the ceremonies and traditions of both home and synagogue are featured as is the family’s pride in Uncle Jake, who will blow the shofar at synagogue to signal the beginning and end of the holiday. (amazon.com)

 

Koss, A. G. (2000). How I saved Hanukkah. Illustrated by D. DeGroat. New York: Puffin. (4-6)

 

A Hanukkah to remember finally! Marla Feinstein, the only Jewish kid in her fourth-grade class, knows what this holiday season will be like. While everyone else is decorating trees and hanging stockings, she’ll be forgetting to light the candles and staring at a big plastic dreidel. But when Marla decides to learn what the Hanukkah traditions are really about, things change fast. Soon she’s got her family turning latkes into Hanukkah Performance Art and doing a wild hora. (amazon.com)

 

Lamstein, S. M. (1997). Annie’s Shabbat. Illustrated by C. Lang. Morton Grove, IL: Albert Whitman. (K-3)

 

An idealized family celebration of the weekly Sabbath holiday beginning with preparation for Friday’s dinner at sundown and ending with the Havdalah service after sunset on Saturday. (Horn Book, 1998)

 

Manushkin, F. (1992). Latkes and applesauce: A Hanukkah story. Illustrated by R. Spowart. New York: Scholastic Trade. (K-3)

 

When a blizzard leaves a family housebound on Hanukkah, they share what little food they have with some starving animals who later return the favor. (card catalog)

 

Manushkin, F. (2001). The matzah that Papa brought home. Illustrated by N. Bittinger. New York: Scholastic Trade. (K-3)

 

Bringing cherished Passover traditions to life, a new book by the author of Latkes and Applesauce: A Hanukkah Story includes a short history of the Passover story, lively illustrations, cumulative verse, and an explanation of holiday symbols. (amazon.com)

 

Meltzer, A.  (2007).  A mezuzah on the door.  Illustrated by J. Fried.  Kar-Ben.  (1-3)

 

Meltzer and Fried demonstrate the practice of dedicating a new Jewish home in this sweet and gentle story of a boy and his family leaving a city apartment for a house in the suburbs. Like most children in a move situation, Noah is anxious and worries about missing all the familiar sounds of his building: Mr. Gollis’s allergic sneezes, Maya’s violin practice, the clanking of Mrs. Feldman’s dishwashing. It’s very quiet in the new house, but Noah and his parents get busy shopping for a mezuzah (the traditional doorpost case holding a small parchment prayer scroll) for Noah’s bedroom and invite all their old neighbors to a "Hanukkat Habayit,” the dedication open house. After mezuzahs are hung for each room, the noise of guests mingling, eating and listening to Maya’s violin helps Noah appreciate the quiet when all the guests leave. Yet he is grateful for their presence on this special day, because it solved his loneliness. Simply drawn and intricately designed illustrations in soft colors done in a multimedia style with watercolors, pencils, collage, pen/ink and a scratching technique round out this informative story that effectively brings closure to one little boy’s concerns. Concise explanation of the custom and prayer appended.  (Kirkus Reviews)

 

Moss, M. (1996). The ugly menorah. New York: Farrar Straus Giroux. (K-3)

 

On the first Hanukkah since her grandpa had died, Rachel keeps her grandmother company, and as grandma tells the story of her ugly menorah, grandpa’s spirit seems to fill the house again, and when Grandma lights the candles, the menorah is transformed. (amazon.com)

 

Newman, L. (1998). Matzo Ball Moon. Illustrated by E. Greenstein. New York: Clarion Books. (K-3)

 

Matzo Ball Moon is a cheerful family story of Passover preparations, a warm grandmother-granddaughter friendship, the mysterious disappearance of Bubbe’s famous matzo balls, and the wonderful things that can happen under a matzo ball moon. (amazon.com)

 

Penn, M. (1999). The miracle of potato latkes: A Hanukkah story. Illustrated by G. Carmi. New York: Holiday House. (K-3)

 

This charming Hanukkah picture book tells the tale of Tante Golda, who makes the most delicious potato latkes in all of Russia. She loves to share them with neighbors, but because of the drought this year, she has only one tiny potato. She doesn’t know how she can make latkes for her Hanukkah guests, but she has faith that God will provide. Soon He does! (amazon.com)

 

Polacco, P. (1998). The bee tree. New York: Paper Star. (K-3)

 

On the day that Mary Ellen announces she is tired of reading, Grampa carefully traps and then releases a series of bees so that he and his granddaughter can follow the insects back to their tree. The fast-paced adventure story, which contains a moral about the value of books and reading, features a generous amount of white space and large, brilliantly colored pictures. (Horn Book, 1993)

 

Polacco, P. (1994). Mrs. Katz and Tush. New York: Picture Yearling. (2-4)

 

A long-lasting friendship develops between Larnel, a young African-American, and Mrs. Katz, a lonely, Jewish widow, when Larnel presents Mrs. Katz with a scrawny kitten without a tail. (card catalog)

 

Polacco, P. (2001). The keeping quilt. New York: Aladdin Paperbacks. (1-4)

 

A homemade quilt ties together the lives of four generations of a Jewish family, remaining a symbol of their enduring love and faith. (card catalog)

 

Portnoy, M. & Kahn, K. J. (1994). Matzah ball: A Passover story. Rockville, MD: Kar-Ben Copies. (4-6)

 

Aaron must bring a bag of lunch to the baseball game, but while his friends are off at the concession stand, something wonderful happens. (amazon.com)

 

Rosen, M. J. (2000). Our eight nights of Hanukkah. Illustrated by D. DiSalvo-Ryan. New York: Holiday House. (1-4)

 

A child narrator describes how his family celebrates Hanukkah, including lighting the holiday menorah, playing traditional games, and eating foods like latkes and chocolate coins. The portrait emphasizes charity, family ties, a limited focus on gifts, and sharing experiences with neighbors of different ethnic backgrounds. The cheerful color artwork helps develop the holiday mood. (Horn Book, 2001)

 

Rosen, M. J. (2000). The blessing of the animals. New York: Farrar, Straus & Giroux. (3-6)

 

When Jared’s friend encourages him to bring his dog to the St. Francis Blessing of the Animals, Jared is excited, but his mother objects because they are Jewish. She says, however, that if he gets four opinions about whether or not to go, he can make up his own mind. Although in places the explanations feel didactic, Jared’s search raises some thought-provoking ideas about Judaism. (Horn Book, 2001)

 

Rothenberg. J. (1997). Inside-out grandma. New York: Disney Press. (K-3)

 

Grandma may look silly, but she's got a good reason for her inside-out wardrobe. Hanukkah is approaching and Grandma's strange dress habit is a reminder to buy enough oil to fry potato latkes. Why this would remind someone of cooking oil is a puzzle to Rosie. So Grandma goes through a list of connected remembrances to reveal the humorous answer. (amazon.com)

 

Schotter, R. (1998). Passover magic. Illustrated by M. Hafner. Toronto: Little, Brown and Company. (K-3)

 

Molly and her family celebrate the spring holiday of Passover in all the joy, magic, and warmth of its traditions and activities, from preparing the seder plate to welcoming the prophet, Elijah. (amazon.com)

 

Schotter, R. (1998). Purim play. Illustrated by M. Hafner. Toronto: Little, Brown and Company. (K-3)

 

Every year, when people are winter-weary and longing for spring, Purim comes and it’s time for play, time for the annual Purim play, that is! Frannie’s two cousins always come to Frannie’s house to celebrate Purim and reenact the story of how brave Queen Esther saved the Jewish people. But this year, the cousins are sick with the flu, and Frannie’s mom, without asking Frannie, has invited old Mrs. Teplitzky from down the street to play the role of the evil Haman. Can this topsy-turvy play go on? (amazon.com)

 

Schwartz, B. (1999). Where’s my dreidel?: A Hanukkah Lift-the-Flap story.  Illustrated by V. Livney. New York: Little Simon. (K).

 

Where can Max’s dreidel be? As he searches his home, Max joins his family as they prepare for Hanukkah. By story’s end, everyone,  including Max , has what he needs to enjoy Hanukkah dinner. (amazon.com)

 

Singer, I. B. (1990). The power of light: Eight stories for Hanukkah. Illustrated by I. Lieblich. New York: Farrar, Straus & Giroux. (K-3)

 

Eight tales by Nobellaureate Isaac Bashevis Singer, one for each night of the Hanukkah celebration, tell of a world in which miracles abound, love triumphs, and faith prevails. (amazon.com)

 

Sussman, S. (1988). Hanukkah: eight lights around the world. Illustrated by J. Friedman. Morton Grove, IL: Albert Whitman. (2-4)

 

 Short stories depict eight contemporary Jewish families in different countries celebrating the holiday. (card catalog)

 

Sussman, S. (1993). There’s no such thing as a Chanukah bush, Sandy Goldstein. Illustrated by C. Robinson. Morton Grove, IL: Albert Whitman. (4-6)

 

A wise, understanding grandfather helps Robin, a Jewish child, cope with Christmas; not an easy task when even Sandy, who is also Jewish, is allowed to have a Christmas tree and Robin can't have one. (card catalog)

 

Yolen, J. (1993). Briar rose. New York:  Tor Books. (5-6)

 

Haunted by the tales of the Holocaust, a young American woman begins a search for her grandmother’s World War II past. (amazon.com)

 

Zalben, J. B. (1991). Goldie’s Purim. New York: Henry Holt and Company. (K-3)

 

Although Goldie is scared at first, she overcomes her stage fright to play Queen Esther in the synagogue’s celebration of Purim. (card catalog)

 

Ziefert, H. (1994). What is Hanukkah? Illustrated by R. Brown. New York: Harpercollins. (K-1)

 

Josh learns about the miracles that happened a long time ago and how the traditions of Hanukkah are continued today. The lift-the-flap format makes this introduction to a special holiday accessible to the youngest child. (amazon.com)

 

BACK

 

 

Non-fiction:

 

Abrams, J. Z. (1991). Shabbat: A family service. Illustrated by K. J. Kahn. Rockville MD: Kar-Ben Copies. (K-3)

 

A family service for the Jewish Sabbath. (card catalog)

 

Adler, D. A. (1996). The kids’ catalog of Jewish holidays. Philadelphia, PA: Jewish Publications Society. (4-6)

 

A cornucopia of riches celebrating the Jewish holidays, this easy-to-use introduction to each of the Jewish holidays gathers together a rare blend of stories, poems, recipes, songs, crafts, puzzles, cartoons, and more! (amazon.com)

 

Alder, D. A.  (1994). A picture book of Passover. Illustrated by L. Heller. Old Greenwich, CT: Listening Library. (2-4)

 

Describes the events which led to the liberation of the children of Israel from slavery in Egypt, and explains some of the Passover traditions and customs. (card catalog)

 

Backman, A. (1990). One night, one Hanukkah night. Philadelphia, PA: Jewish Publication Society. (K-3)

 

Each night for eight nights a candle is added to the great silver menorah. Illustrations depict the celebration in homes past and present. (card catalog)

 

Behrens, J. (1987). Passover: Festivals and holidays. Illustrated  by T. Behrens. Chicago, IL: Children’s Press. (K-3)

 

Follows the members of the Adler family as they prepare for and celebrate Passover. (card catalog)

 

Ben-Zvi, R. T. (2005). Four sides, eight nights: A new spin on Hanukkah. Illustrated by S. Natti.  Brodie/Roaring Brook. (2-4)

 

Four sides of a toy, eight nights of celebration, forty-four candles burning in honor of an ancient miracle, two-thousand-one-hundred-seventy-some years of Hanukkah -- everything you ever wanted to know about the Hanukkah holiday, centered on the children’s game of dreidel (a spinning top). Jokes, history, customs, trivia, science facts (just how fast does a dreidel spin?) come to life with wacky and informative illustrations throughout.

 

Berger, G. (2002). Celebrate! Stories of the Jewish holidays. Illustrated by P. Catalanotto. New York: Scholastic Trade. (All ages)

 

This sparkling collection of stories, recipes, crafts, and commentary introduces readers to the eight major Jewish holidays. (amazon.com)

 

Brinn, R. E. (1993). Jewish holiday crafts for little hands. Illustrated by K. Kahn. Rockville, MD: Kar-Ben Copies. (4-6)

 

Provides simple directions for making over 100 craft items from easily available materials for Shabbath and various Jewish holidays. Includes a glossary and summary of the holidays. (card catalog)

 

Brinn, R. E. (1995). Jewish holiday games for little hands. Illustrated by S. Springer. Rockville, MD: Kar-Ben Copies. (4-6)

 

Dozens of games for Shabbat and the Jewish holidays. With game boards and playing cards designed for reproduction. Simple directions, holiday explanations, and glossary. Ideal for home and classroom, large groups or solitary play. (amazon.com)

 

Burns, M. (1994). The Hanukkah book. Illustrated by M. Weston. New York: Avon.      (4-6)

 

Discusses why and how Hanukkah is celebrated and includes recipes, songs, and instructions for playing with a dreidel. (amazon.com)

 

Chaikin, M. (1990). Menorahs, Mezuzahs, and other Jewish symbols. Illustrated by E. Weihs. New York: Clarion. (4-6)

 

Explains the history and significance of many Jewish symbols, such as the Shield of David, the menorah, and the mezuza, and discusses holiday symbols and rituals. (card catalog)

 

Drucker, M. (1999). The family treasury of Jewish holidays. Illustrated by N. Patz. Toronto: Little, Brown and Company. (4-6)

 

Recounts the history and rituals of ten Jewish holidays, including appropriate games, recipes, and songs. (card catalog)

 

Ehrlich, A. (1994). The story of Hanukkah. Illustrated by O. Sherman. New York: Puffin Books. (K-3)

 

A young reader's retelling of the first Hanukkah describes the Jewish people's struggles for religious freedom under the rule of an evil king and the miracle that enabled them to restore their temple and keep the flame of faith burning. (amazon.com)

 

Fishman, C. G. (2003). Hanukkah. Illustrated by M. O. Young. Carolrhoda. (2-3)

 

Introduces the Jewish Festival of Lights, or Hanukkah, relating the story behind the holiday and how it is celebrated. (card catalog)

 

Goldin, B. D. (1997). The Passover journey: A seder companion. Illustrated by N. Waldman. New York: Puffin. (4-6)

 

Retells the story of the Israelites’ fight for liberation from slavery in Egypt and explains the traditions of the Passover seder. (card catalog)

 

Groner, J. S. & Wikler, M. (2000). All about Passover. Illustrated by K. Kreiswirth. Rockville, MD: Kar-Ben Copies. (2-4)

 

The history and customs of Passover in language young children can understand. Includes the story of the Exodus, all about chametz and matzah, the tradition of tzedakah at Passover, and an introduction to the seder. With favorite recipes. (amazon.com)

 

Groner, J. S. & Wikler, M. (1992). Hanukkah fun for little hands. Illustrated by K. J. Kahn. Rockville, MD: Kar-Ben Copies. (K-3)

 

Simple Hanukkah crafts and activities for little ones. Make dreidel decorations, read the picture-story of Hanukkah, and have fun with the full-color playing cards. (amazon.com)

 

Groner, J. S. & Wikler, M. (1993). Thank you God! A Jewish child’s book of prayers. Illustrated by S. O Haas. Rockville, MD: Kar Ben Copies. (K-2)

 

Presents common Jewish prayers and blessings in English and Hebrew with simple transliterations. (card catalog)

 

Gross, J. (1992). Celebrate: A book of Jewish holidays. New York: Price Stern Sloane.  (K-3)

 

Introduces Shabbat, Rosh Hashanah, Yom Kippur, Sukkot, Simhat Torah, Hanukkah, Tu Bishvat, Purim, Passover, and Shavuot. (card catalog)

 

Hoyt-Goldsmith, D. (1998). Celebrating Hanukkah. Photographs by L. Migdale. New York: Holiday House. (3-5)

 

Presents the history, traditions, and significance of Hanukkah as it is celebrated by a Jewish family in San Francisco. (card catalog)

 

Hoyt-Goldsmith, D. (2000). Celebrating Passover. Photographs by L. Migdale. New York: Holiday House. (3-5)

 

Hoyt-Goldsmith and Migdale expand their series on American celebrations with this offering that details a Reform Jewish celebration of Passover. Hoyt-Goldsmith focuses on nine-year-old Micah Kamrass, explaining how he and his extended family prepare for and celebrate the week-long holiday. She recounts the festival’s origins nearly 3,000 years ago, describes some of the special foods that are served, and explains the components and proscribed order of a seder, the ceremonial meal held during the first two nights of the festival. Illustrated sidebars depict the ancient story, and Lawrence Migdale’s crisp, color photographs show the members of the Kamrass family and their activities, with captions clarifying such customs as the search for the afikomen (hidden matzoh). Festivities in Orthodox and Conservative Jewish households may vary. An attractive and useful choice for the holiday shelf;  recipes, songs, and a glossary are a bonus. (Booklist)

 

Kimmelman, L. (2000). Dance, sing, remember: A celebration of Jewish holidays. Illustrated by O. Eitan. New York: Harpercollins. (K-3)

 

A page or two of text briefly explains the significance of each holiday and its traditions; the entries are often embellished by a story, song, activity, or recipe. The book is invaluable for its inclusion of several holidays rarely (if ever) mentioned in secular children’s literature; the warm, playful illustrations and attractive presentation make it a sure bet for holiday gift-giving. (Horn Book, 2001)

 

Kolatch, A. J. (1997). A child’s first book of Jewish holidays. Illustrated by H. Araten. New York: Jonathan David. (K-2)

 

This thoroughly engaging introduction to the major Jewish holidays by the creators of The Jewish Child’s First Book of Why will delight children ages three to six. Bright and colorful illustrations add fun and excitement to each holiday presentation. (amazon.com)

 

Kolatch, A. J. (1992). The Jewish child’s first book of why. Illustrated by H. Araten. New York: Jonathan David. (K-3)

 

Presents thirty-two questions and answers relating to Jewish holidays and customs. (card catalog)

 

Kolatch, A. J. (1997). Let’s celebrate our Jewish holidays. Illustrated by A. Bloch. New York: Jonathan David. (1-5)

 

Designed for youngsters ages six and up, the author of The Jewish Child’s First Book of Why captures the essence of each special day of celebration. In easy-to-read, intelligent prose, he explains to young readers how each holiday in the Jewish calendar originated, how each is celebrated, and the message that each offers us today. (amazon.com)

 

Kripke, D. K. (1999). Let’s talk about the Sabbath. Illustrated by J. N. Weider. Los Angeles, CA: Alef Design Group. (4-6)

 

A renowned children’s writer takes young readers on an enchanted journey through the Jewish Sabbath. (amazon.com)

 

Michelson, R.  (2008).  A is for Abraham: A Jewish family alphabet. Illustrated by R. Mazellan.  Sleeping Bear.  (K-2)

 

From Abraham to Zaydee, and from ancient times to modern day, A is for Abraham: A Jewish Family Alphabet encompasses the history of Jewish traditions and customs and how they are practiced today.  (amazon.com)

 

Musleah, R. (2000). Why on this night? A Passover Haggadah for family celebration. Illustrated by L. August. New York: Aladdin Paperbacks. (3-5)

 

The rich traditions of Passover come alive in this contemporary family haggadah. As children and adults gather at the seder dinner to remember the Israelites’ journey from slavery to freedom, this creative yet authentic haggadah will guide and engage them. It takes children beyond the Four Questions and the search for the afikoman, encouraging them to enjoy every step of the seder. Through stories, songs, poems, activities, and explanations, children can step back in time to experience the exodus as if they themselves were leaving Egypt -  and at the same time understand the significance of Passover traditions today. (amazon.com)

 

Nerlove, M. (2000). Shabbat. Morton Grove, IL: Albert Whitman. (K-2)

 

A simple and lovely story about Shabbat - the Jewish Sabbath - that young children are sure to enjoy again and again. (amazon.com)

 

Russo, M. (2005). Always remember me:  How one family  survived World War II.  Schwartz/Atheneum. (3-5)

 

In a moving picture book, Russo tells her Jewish family’s story of Holocaust survival. She remembers herself as a small child visiting her grandmother, Oma, who tells Russo the family history with photos stretching back to Oma’s youth and marriage before World War I. Children will need help to understand the multigenerational time frame and to keep track of who’s who; in fact, the book may appeal more to adults than to young readers. But Russo personalizes the history with photo-album entries printed on the endpapers, and her gouache illustrations, framed like photos, show the individuality and strength of family members as they faced the Nazis who sought to destroy all Jews. Miraculously, Oma and her three daughters, two of whom were in the camps, survived to be reunited in the U.S. An afterword fills in some Holocaust history. (Booklist)

 

Silverman, M. (1999). Festival of lights: The story of Hanukkah. Illustrated by C. S. Ewing. New York: Aladdin Paperbacks. (K-3)

 

Here is a moving retelling of a timeless story. Young readers will also find the legend of the menorah, instructions for making a dreidel, and the music for a traditional holiday song. (amazon.com)

 

Simon, N. (1998). The story of Hanukkah. Illustrated by L. Gore. New York: HarperTrophy. (2-4)

 

A lavish tribute to the legends and history surrounding Hanukkah, the Festival of Lights, this book also explores the origins of today’s Hanukkah customs. Also included is the author’s own recipe for latkes. (amazon.com)

 

Simon, N. (1998). The story of Passover. Photographs by E. Weihs. New York: HarperTrophy. (2-4)

 

A brightly illustrated history of Passover relates the story of Moses and the Exodus from Egypt, discusses the seder and its symbolism, and presents fun, hands-on activities that illuminate the traditions, meaning, and celebration of the holiday. (amazon.com)

 

Techner, D. & Hirt-Manheimer, J. (1993). A candle for Grandpa: A Guide to the Jewish funeral for children and parents. Illustrated by J. Iskowitz. New York: Union of American Hebrew Congregations. (K-3)

 

No synopsis available.

 

Weitzman, E. & Stuart, L. (1998). I am Jewish American (Our American Family). New York: Powerkids Press. (4-6)

 

A Jewish American girl discusses her faith, traditions, heritage, food, history, and pride in her identity. (Borders.com)

 

Yolen, J. (1996). Milk and honey: A year of Jewish holidays. Illustrated by L. August. New York: Putnam. (4-6)

 

Designed to help readers experience each holiday during the Jewish calendar year, the collection includes information regarding customs, stories, poems, songs with piano and guitar accompaniment, and a play for Sukkot, Hanukkah, Purim, Pesach, Savuot, Rosh Hashanah, Yom Kippur, and the Sabbath. (amazon.com)

 

BACK

 

 

Traditional:

 

Alder, D. A. (1997). Chanukah in Chelm. Illustrated by K. O”Mally. New York: HarperCollins. (K-4))

 

The people of Chelm have good hearts, great dreams, and very little sense. So when Mendel needs a table to hold the Chanukah menorah, his simple trip to the storage closet turns into a hilariously bungled quest. (amazon.com)

 

Fowles, S. (2007).  The bachelor and the bean: A Jewish Moroccan folktale.  Frances Lincoln’s Children Books.  (K-3)

 

When a grumpy old bachelor accidentally drops a bean down a well, he rouses an imp. In exchange for the lost bean, the imp offers a magic pot that — much to the bachelor’s delight— produces food on command. A jealous old lady steals the pot, and when the bachelor confronts her he finds that she’s just as nasty and unpleasant as he is. She’s stolen his pot . . . will she also steal his heart? Vibrant illustrations, strongly influenced by Moroccan art and architecture, depict this most unlikely love story comprised of simple, amusing text that’s easy for young readers to follow.  (amazon.com)

 

Gilman, P. (2000). Something from nothing. New York: Scholastic. (K-3)

 

A modern adaptation of this favorite Jewish folktale describes how the blanket grandfather had made for young Joseph is transformed over the years into a jacket, a button, and, ultimately, a story. (amazon.com)

 

Goldin, B. D. (1993). Cakes and miracles: A Purim Tale. Illustrated by E. Weihs. New York: Puffin. (K-3)

 

Young, blind Hershel finds that he has special gifts he can use to help his mother during the Jewish holiday of Purim. Features a recipe for hamantashen. (card catalog)

 

Goldin, B. D. (1999). Journeys with Elijah: Eight tales of the Prophet. Illustrated by J. Pinkney.  New York: Gulliver Books. (4-6)

 

Eight stories celebrate the legends of Elijah in different parts of the world, spanning 17 centuries. (amazon.com)

 

Goldin, B. D. (1990). Just enough is plenty: A Hanukkah tale. Illustrated by S. Chwast. New York: Puffin. (K-3)

 

An old peddler joins Malka’s family for the first night of the Hanukkah celebrations, one in which there is "just enough" food for the family, but they gladly share with him. The next morning, they find the peddler has gone, leaving a a sackful of gifts, and Malka is convinced that he was Elijah. (amazon.com)

 

Goldin, B. D. (1995). The magician’s visit: A Passover tale. Illustrated by R. A. Parker. New York: Puffin. (K-4)

 

A retelling of a classic folktale details the Passover eve arrival of a mysterious magician at the home of a poor and pious couple and how he magically brings about all the things necessary to celebrate the Seder. (amazon.com)

 

Groner, J. and Wikler, M. (1997). All about Rosh Hashanah. Illustrated by B. Gordon-Lucas. Rockville, MD: Kar-Ben Copies. (1-4)

 

An explanation of the holiday traditions at home and in the synagogue, alternating with classic folk tales based on themes of repentance, renewal, and forgiveness. With words and music to songs and blessings around the holiday table. (amazon.com)

 

Howland, N. (1999). Latkes, latkes good to eat: A Chanukah story. New York: Clarion Books. (K-3)

 

Sadie receives a frying pan from an old woman that cooks potato latkes continuously until stopped by Hanukkah’s magic words: “A great miracle happened here.” The girl’s brothers get hold of the pan, chaos ensues, and the village is practically buried in latkes before Sadie puts a stop to the shenanigans. (Horn Book, 1999)

 

Jaffe, N. (1995). In the month of Kislev: A story for Hanukkah. Illustrated by L. August. New York: Puffin. (K-3)

 

In a charming story from the oral tradition, a rich man begrudges three hungry children the good smells emanating from his kitchen window, and insists that they should pay for them. The kindly town rabbi comes up with a solution that is completely fair but that also teaches the miserly merchant a valuable lesson. The strong black lines of the woodcuts, combined with the colors of oil paint, give the illustrations the quality of stained glass. (Horn Book, 1993)

 

Jaffe, N. (1995). The uninvited guest and other Jewish holiday tales. Illustrated by E. Savadier. New York: Scholastic Trade. (4-6)

 

Includes background information and retellings of traditional tales from Jewish folklore and legend related to major holidays, such as Yom Kippur, Sukkot, Hanukkah, and Purim. (card catalog)

 

Jaffe, N. (1998). The way meat loves salt: A Cinderella tale from the Jewish tradition. Illustrated by L. August. New York: Henry Holt. (K-3)

 

Many years ago in Poland, there lived a rabbi who had a wife and three daughters. One day, the rabbi asks his children a powerful question: "How much do you love me?” His older daughters profess their love in gold and diamonds, but his youngest daughter, Mireleh, declares she loves her father the way meat loves salt. For this remark, she is banished from her father’s home. In this flavorful Jewish Cinderella tale, Mireleh’s courageous journey is peppered with a perfect blend of magic and romance, leading to a reconciliation with her beloved father. Lavishly illustrated in Louise August’s bold linocuts, The Way Meat Loves Salt will make a wonderful gift for the Jewish holidays. (amazon.com)

 

Kimmel, E. A. (2000). A jar of fools: Eight Hanukkah stories from Chelm. Illustrated by M. Gerstein. New York: Holiday House. (3-5)

 

Although nonsense abounds in these stories about the foolish realm of Chelm, Kimmel’s sure sense of the potential of wisdom even among the most foolish brings sweetness and lightness to these tales. Kimmel alerts us in an author’s note to the mixture of his collection; a dollop of retellings of traditional Yiddish tales, a soupçon of reworkings from other cultures, blended with three original stories. (Horn Book, 2001).

 

Kimmel, E. A. (1993). Asher and the capmakers: A Hanukkah story. Illustrated by W. Hillenbrand. New York: Holiday House. (K-3)

 

Combining elements from several folk traditions, Kimmel tells the tale of a boy’s adventures with a magic cap that whisks him off to Jerusalem on a special, wintry Hanukkah eve. Colorful illustrations complement the lively text. (Horn Book, 1994)

 

Kimmel, E. A. (1993). Days of awe: Stories for Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur. Illustrated by E. Weihs. New York: Puffin Books. (4-6)

 

Three tales present the ideals of repentance, prayer, and charity that are the basis of Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur. (card catalog)

 

Kimmel, E. A. (2000). Gershon’s monster: A story for the Jewish New Year. Illustrated by J. J. Muth. New York: Scholastic Trade. (K-3)

 

With characteristic confidence, Kimmel retells the story of Gershon, “not always the best person he could be.” A “wonder rabbi” intercedes to grant the childless Gershon and his good wife twins--but with a future caution;  their fate will be caught up with their father’s pride and selfishness. Muth’s washes of color create a range of moods in this quietly moralistic Hasidic tale. (Horn Book, 2001)

 

Kimmel, E. A. (1994). Herschel and the Hanukkah goblins. Illustrated by T. S. Hyman. New York: Holiday House. (K-3)

 

Relates how Herschel outwits the goblins that haunt the old synagogue and prevent the village people from celebrating Hanukkah. (card catalog)

 

Kimmel, E. A. (1992). The Chanukah guest. Illustrated by G. Carmi. New York: Holiday House. (K-3)

 

On the first night of Chanukah, Old Bear wanders into Bubba Brayna’s house and receives a delicious helping of potato latkes when she mistakes him for the rabbi. (card catalog)

 

Kimmel, E. A. (1988). The Chanukkah tree. Illustrated by G. Carmi. New York: Holiday House. (K-3)

 

The foolish people of Chelm are tricked by  a peddler into buying and decorating a “Chanukkah tree” on Christmas Eve, but after becoming disillusioned they rediscover its worth and beauty. (card catalog)

 

Kimmel, E. A. (1997). The magic dreidels: A Hanukkah Story. Illustrated by K. Krenina.  New York: Holiday House. (K-3)

 

When an old lady swindles him out of his magic dreidels, Jacob tries to get them back in time for the family’s Hanukkah celebration. (amazon.com)

 

Kimmel, E. A.  (2008).  The mysterious guests: A Sukkot story.  Illustrated by K. Krenina.  Holiday House.  (3-5)

 

Master storyteller Eric A. Kimmel spins a tale of Sukkot just in time for the Jewish harvest festival. It was the season of Sukkot, the Jewish harvest festival. Two brothers each built a sukkah, or shelter, to celebrate and share in the gifts of the earth. One brother was very rich; the other brother was very poor. He built a sukkah of found materials and leftover goods, yet he invited all to share the holiday with him. When three mysterious guests visit each brother on Sukkot, they leave behind a special blessing that recognizes the generosity of the heart.  (amazon.com)

 

Kimmel, E. A. (1992). The spotted pony: A collection of Hanukkah stories. Illustrated by E. Fisher. New York: Holiday House. (4-6)

 

Eight traditional shammes stories--about King Solomon and his magic ring, a mysterious spotted pony, Benayahu ben Yehoyada, and other heroes, demons, and fools--help celebrate the Festival of Lights. (amazon.com)

 

Schwartz, H. & Rush, B. (1996). The Sabbath lion: A Jewish folktale from Algeria. Photographs by S. Fieser. New York: HarperTrophy. (K-3)

 

When young Yosef travels to Egypt to claim an inheritance for his poor family, a greedy caravan leader leaves him stranded in the desert. His faithful observance of the Sabbath, the day of rest for Jews everywhere, results in a miraculous rescue by a magnificent lion. (Horn Book, 1993)

 

Schwartz, H (1994). Elijah’s violin and other Jewish fairy tales. Illustrated by L. Heller. New York: Oxford University Press. (4-6)

 

In Elijah’s Violin, Howard Schwartz presents a sumptuous collection of 36 Jewish fairy tales from virtually every corner of the world. These stories will captivate children and adults alike as they illuminate the Jewish world view, where faith in God can defeat the evil impulse. (amazon.com)

 

Sherman, J. (1993). Rachel the clever and other Jewish folktales. Little Rock, AR: August House. (4-6)

 

A collection of highly entertaining and thought-provoking Jewish folktales gathered from around the world and related in simple, unadorned prose. The selections include ghost and magic tales, as well as stories about good deeds and lever folks. (Horn Book, 1993)

 

Shulman, L. (2005). The matzo ball boy. Illustrated by R. Litzinger. Dutton. (K-2)

 

On the morning of the Passover seder, a lonely bubbe decides to make a matzo ball boy to keep herself company. Soon delicious smells waft from the bubbling pot, and when she lifts the lid to see if the matzo ball boy is done, out he jumps. "Oy!” she cries. "And where do you think you're going?” "I'm off to see the world, bubbe,” replies the matzo ball boy. "Run, run, as fast as you can. You can’t catch me. I’m the matzo ball man!” Before long a yenta and her children, a rabbi, and a fox are all on a mad chase to catch the matzo ball boy, ending with his hilarious comeuppance. The familiar tale of the gingerbread man is updated with a twist as savory as a brimming bowl of the bubbe’s chicken soup. (amazon.com)

 

Silverman, E. (2003). When the chickens went on strike: A Rosh Hashanah tale. Illustrated by M. Trueman. Dutton. (K-3)

 

In this Jewish New Year story, based on a Sholom Aleichem tale, a young boy sneaks away from religious services to spy on a meeting of local chickens. The birds are upset about the tradition of Kapores, a custom involving twirling chickens overhead to symbolically rid a person of bad deeds. Declaring freedom for fowl, the birds go on strike, and not even negotiators can convince them to return. Without the ceremony, the boy despairs that he will ever be good enough to please his father; then, one of the hens gently explains to him that humans can control their own behavior. Trueman’s stylistically inventive mixed-media illustrations, rich in earth tones, are visually striking. They juxtapose well with Silverman’s understated yet humorous text; both include many nineteenth-century Russian setting details. A perfect choice for holiday read-alouds, this will make a welcome addition to religious collections, especially in libraries where there is a Jewish audience. (Booklist)

 

Singer, I. B. (1996). The Golem. Illustrated by U. Shulevitz. Escondido, CA: Sunburst. (K-3)

 

A clay giant miraculously brought to life by a saintly rabbi saves a Jewish banker who has been falsely accused in the Prague of Emperor Rudolf II. (amazon.com)

 

Singer, I. B. (1995). Mazel and Shlimazel: Or the milk of a lioness. Illustrated by M. Zemach. Escondido, CA: Sunburst. (K-3)

 

A retelling of a classic tale pits Mazel, the debonair spirit of good luck, against Shlimazel, the wicked spirit of bad luck, in a confrontation that enables a poor but honest lad to win and marry a king’s daughter. (amazon.com)

 

Singer, I. B. (1986). When Shlemiel went to Warsaw and other stories. Illustrated by M. Zemach. New York: Farrar, Straus & Giroux. (4-6)

 

This is a collection of eight different Jewish stories, carefully and brilliantly crafted.

 

Taback, S. (1999). Joseph had a little overcoat. New York: Viking Children’s Books (K-3)

 

When Joseph’s favorite overcoat gets old and worn, he makes a jacket out of it. When the jacket is more patches than jacket, Joseph turns it into a vest. When the vest’s number is up, Joseph makes a scarf. This thrifty industry continues until there’s nothing left of the original garment. But clever Joseph manages to make something out of nothing! (amazon.com)

 

Taback, S. (2005). Kibitzers and fools: Tales my Zayda told me. Viking Juvenile. (2-5)

 

A saying: It pays to have a little chutzpah (nerve). With Old World charm, universal humor, and just a bit of chutzpah, Simms Taback offers this lively spin on thirteen playful tales—as only he could. Paired with his trademark vibrant and hilarious artwork, these stories illustrate ultimate universal truths and important life lessons, from the difference between a shlemiel and a shlimazel to the idea that just because you can talk doesn’t mean you make sense. Taback delivers the perfect combination of wisdom and humor—just the way your zayda (grandpa) would.  (amazon.com)

 

Wisniewski, D. (1996). Golem. New York: Clarion Books. (4-6)

 

Golem is the Hebrew word for shapeless man. According to Jewish legend, the renowned scholar and teacher Rabbi Loew used his powers to create a Golem from clay in order to protect his people from persecution in the ghettos of 16th-century Prague. (amazon.com)

 

Zemach, M. (1990). It could always be worse: A Yiddish folk tale. New York: Farrar, Straus & Giroux. (3-6)

 

Unable to stand his overcrowded and noisy home any longer, a poor man goes to the Rabbi for advice. (card catalog)

 

BACK

 

 

Biography:

 

Adler, D. A. (1994) A picture book of Anne Frank. Illustrated by  K. Ritz. New York: Holiday House. (K-3)

 

Traces the life of the young Jewish girl whose diary chronicles the years she and her family hid from the Nazis in an Amsterdam attic. (card catalog)

 

Berkow, I. (2001). Hank Greenberg: Hall-of-Fame slugger. Illustrated by M. Ellison. Philadelphia, PA: Jewish Publication Society. (4-6)

 

A biography of the powerful home run hitter who became the first Jewish player elected to the Baseball Hall of Fame. (card catalog)

 

Brooks, P. (1998). Extraordinary Jewish Americans. Danbury, CT: Children’s Press.

(5-6)

 

Presents short biographies of more than sixty Jewish Americans who have flourished in careers including law, finance, entertainment, writing, politics, and science. (amazon.com)

 

Drucker, M.  (2008).  Portraits of Jewish American heroes.  Illustrated by E. Rosen.  Dutton.  (4-6)

 

An absorbing, inspiring tour of the 350-year Jewish American adventure.

“From its beginnings, America, founded on religious freedom, has been a land of opportunity for Jews, socially, economically, and spiritually,” writes Rabbi Malka Drucker in introducing twenty compelling individuals who have enriched our country by their achievements. In areas including science, sports, filmmaking, and civil rights, we meet male and female heroes who set an example, made a positive difference, and took a risk to do it. This beautifully produced volume spans three centuries of history, beginning with Haym Solomon and ending with Daniel Pearl. Each individual’s likeness, spirit, and contribution are captured in a distinctive and striking color portrait created with a variety of different media.  (amazon.com)

 

Ferber, E. (1996). Steven Spielberg: A biography. Broomall, PA: Chelsea House. (4-6)

 

With films like Jaws, Close Encounters and E.T., Steven Spielberg redefined the limits of special effects and captured the imagination of audiences worldwide, while the stark historical interpretation in Schindler’s List revealed the full scope of his genius. This biography explores Spielberg’s remarkable life and work, from his earliest television directing stints to his numerous box office hits. (amazon.com)

 

Hoffman, J. (1996). Jews in sports. Illustrated by J. Zwebner. New York: Pitspopany Press. (4-6)

 

Jews in Sports, with cartoon-like illustrations by Janet Zwebner, is a comprehensive history of Jewish participation in baseball, soccer, tennis, football, Olympic sports, lacrosse, and the Maccabiah games. The double-page spreads offer Waldo-like "find-its” that young kids will enjoy. (Borders.com)

 

Hurwitz, J. (1999). Anne Frank: Life in hiding. Illustrated by V. Rosenberry. New York: Camelot. (4-6)

 

From July 1942 until August 1944, a young girl named Anne Frank kept a diary. Keeping a diary isn’t unusual. Lots of girls do. But Anne’s diary was unique. It chronicled the two years she and her family spent hiding from the Germans who were determined to annihilate all the Jews in Europe. (amazon.com)

 

Lalicki, T. (2000). Spellbinder: The life of Harry Houdini. New York: Holiday House. (4-6)

 

This book traces the life of Ehrich Weiss, (a.k.a. Harry Houdini) from a rabbi’s son to the master of magic and gives the young reader an understanding of how he became a household name. Houdini was a masterful magician, accomplished athlete, cinema star, and pilot. His real loves were entertaining, danger, and debunking friends. A must for any aspiring young magicians. (Borders.com)

 

Loumayet, J. & Boiry, V. (1994). Chagall: My sad and joyous village. Broomall, PA: Chelsea House. (4-6)

 

The magical, marvelous world of Marc Chagall as seen through the eyes of a school child. (forWORDSbooks: Catalog of Jewish Books 2001, p. 2)

 

Markel, M. (2005). Dreamer from the village: The story of Marc Chagall. Illustrated by E. Lisker. Henry Holt and Company. (1-4)

 

Opening with the artist’s dramatic birth during a fire in a small Russian village, Markel describes Chagall’s childhood and early career. The village, his extended family, and deep Jewish roots are all emphasized, elements that are central to understanding his art. The author explains how Chagall saw the world, and himself, in a different way. He painted the way he felt, not how things actually were, which makes his work unique. The language is often poetic: The town was like a richness that filled him and later: silver stars trembled on a velvet spring sky. Markel makes Chagall and his work accessible to children. Indeed, children are closer to the world of dreams and imagination than most adults, and many will find his work very appealing. The vivid illustrations are inspired by Chagall, but Lisker doesn’t attempt to copy his style directly. Only one actual reproduction is included at the end, along with a brief author’s note, a traditional biography, and a short glossary of Jewish terms used in the text. This is not a biography for reports, but rather an excellent portrait of an artist that will open and expand children’s minds. (School Library Journal)

 

McDonough, Y. Z. (1997). Anne Frank. Illustrated by M. Zeldis. New York: Henry Holt. (4-6)

 

A biography that introduces young children to the story of the Holocaust follows Anne Frank who, by studying, writing in her diary, and putting up pictures of film stars, bravely tries to retain a sense of normalcy in the face of turmoil. (amazon.com)

 

Pariser, M. (1994). Elie Wiesel: Bearing witness. Brookfield, CT: Millbrook Press. (4-6)

 

Recounting the life of an Auschwitz survivor and Nobel Prize-winning writer, a young reader’s introduction to the Holocaust and one of its notable figures tells of his courage, dedication to justice, and literary achievements. (amazon.com)

 

Poole, J. (2005). Anne Frank. Illustrated by A. Barrett. Knopf Books for Young Readers. (3-6)

 

The life of Anne Frank, from birth until being taken from the hidden attic by the Nazis, is presented in this haunting, meticulously researched picture book. It is a compelling yet easy-to-understand "first” introduction to the Holocaust as witnessed by Anne and her family. The stunningly evocative illustrations by Angela Barrett are worth a thousand words in capturing for young Americans what it must have felt like to be Anne Frank, a spirited child caught in the maelstrom of World War II atrocities. A detailed timeline of important events in Europe and in the Frank family is included.  (amazon.com)

 

Silverman, E. (2005). Sholom’s treasure: How Sholom Aleichem became a writer. Illustrated by M. Gerstein. Farrar, Straus & Giroux. (1-4)

 

Sholom Aleichem’s favorite childhood memory may have been listening as his father read stories aloud on Saturday nights and a roomful of adults burst out laughing. Sholom wanted to make people laugh, too. At school he became the class clown. At home he imitated even his pious grandmother. But Sholom was also thoughtful. In Russia in the 1800s, life was especially difficult for Jews, and Sholom longed to help his father by finding a legendary hidden treasure. It turned out that Sholom Aleichem’s destiny was to give his father a different kind of treasure - one of words and tales that to this day bring laughter to readers around the world.
This taut, focused biography of the young Sholom Aleichem is animated with the artist’s quick, brilliant line and richly toned watercolors. (amazon.com)

 

Venezia, M. (2000). Marc Chagall (Getting to know the world’s greatest artists). Danbury, CT: Children’s Press. (4-6)

 

With engaging and clever illustrations and reproductions of actual paintings, this book traces the life and work of this famous Jewish painter. (forWORDSbooks: Catalog of Jewish Books 2001, p. 2)

 

Wiedt, M. N. (1990). Mr. Blue Jeans: A story about Levi Strauss. Illustrated by L. M. Anderson. Minneapolis, MN: Carolrhoda Books. (4-6)

 

Traces the life of the immigrant Jewish peddler who went on to found Levi Strauss & Co., the world’s first and largest manufacturer of denim jeans. (card catalog)

 

Weitzman, E. & Stuart, L. (1998). I am Jewish American (Our American Family Series). New York: Powerkids Press. (1-4)

 

A Jewish American girl discusses her faith, traditions, heritage, food, history, and pride in her identity. (Borders.com)

 

BACK

 

Historical Fiction:

 

Ackerman, K. (1995). The night crossing. Illustrated by E. Sayles. New York: Random House. (4-6)

 

When the Nazi occupation of Austria spells danger for Clara and her Jewish family, the entire family packs up whatever they can carry and embark on a perilous journey to find safety in Switzerland. (amazon.com)

 

Adler, D. A. (1995). Child of the Warsaw Ghetto.  Illustrated by K. Ritz. New York: Holiday House. (3-6)

 

A picture book for somewhat older readers relates the experiences of a Jewish boy growing up in Poland during World War II. Froim Baum smuggles food from outside the walls of the Warsaw ghetto and eventually survives a succession of concentration camps, although most of his family does not. The dark, solemn illustrations and understated text add a quiet dignity to the account. (Horn Book, 1995)

 

Adler, D. A. (2001). Hiding from the Nazis. Illustrated by K. Ritz. New York: Holiday House. (3-6)

 

In a straightforward, if somewhat dry, narrative, Adler recounts the story of Lore Baer, who, as a four-year-old Jewish child, was separated from her parents and sent to live with a Christian farming family in the Netherlands to escape capture by the Nazis. Ritz’s watercolors, with their predominance of browns, grays, and blues, evoke an appropriately somber feeling. (Horn Book, 1998)

 

Adler, D. A. (1994). Hilde and Eli: Children of the Holocaust. Illustrated by K. Ritz. New York: Holiday House. (4-6)

 

Although the facts are told in a staightforward, unemotional style, the impact of the true story of two children who did not survive the Holocaust is devastating. Their short lives were controlled by relatives, who could not act in time, and by other adults, who planned murder on a large scale. The picture-book format with muted color illustrations underscores the tragedy. (Horn Book, 1995)

 

Altman, L. J. (2000). The legend of Freedom Hill. Illustrated by C. Van Wright & Y. Hu. New York: Lee & Low Books. (2-4)

 

In California in the 1850s, an African-American girl teams up with a Jewish girl in a search for gold to save the black girl’s mother from a slave catcher. Through perseverance, the two friends find enough gold to buy the freedom of all the captured slaves. Using accurate details and lively language, this tale of love, bravery, and friendship evokes a colorful era. (amazon.com)

 

Blos, J. W. (2000). Brooklyn doesn’t rhyme. Illustrated by P. Birling. New York: Aladdin Paperbacks. (4-6)

 

A charming series of vignettes captures the life of sixth-grader Rosey’s immigrant family and friends, who live in Brooklyn at the turn of the century. As a class assignment, Rosey keeps a journal, in which she recounts stories about her extended family and herself; the child’s voice rings as true as a bell. (Horn Book, 1994)

 

Brodmann, A. (1998). The gift. Illustrated by A. Carnabuci. New York: Aladdin Paperbacks. (K-3)

 

In post-World War II Germany, a young girl visits various shops before deciding how to spend the money her father has given her for Hanukkah. (card catalog)

 

Bush, L. (1998). Rooftop secrets and other stories of anti-semitism. Illustrated by M. Lemelman. New York: Union of American Hebrew Congregations. (4-6)

 

A collection of eight short stories, with background information and commentary, each dealing with a young Jew’s confrontation with anti-Semitism in different periods of Jewish history. (card catalog)

 

Cohen, B. (1998). Here come the Purim players! Illustrated by S. Mekibel. New York:  Union of American Hebrew Congregations. (K-3)

 

The Jews living in the Prague ghetto gather to watch a troupe of local players reenact the story of Queen Esther. (amazon.com)

 

Cohen, B. (1998). Molly’s pilgrim. Illustrated by D. M. Duffy. New York: Beech Tree Books. (K-3)

 

Told to make a doll like a pilgrim for the Thanksgiving display at school, Molly’s Jewish mother dresses the doll as she herself dressed before leaving Russia to seek religious freedom, much to Molly’s embarrassment. (card catalog)

 

Cohen, M. (1999). Mimmy and Sophie. Illustrated by T. F. Yezerski. New York: Frances Foster Books. (K-3)

 

Mimmy and Sophie are two sisters who live in Brooklyn, New York, during the Great Depression. Like most sisters, they have a lot in common, but they’re also different. These four irresistible stories unfold in 58 picture frames, capturing the essence of time and place and sisterhood. (amazon.com)

 

Cohn, J.  (2000). The Christmas Menorahs: How a town fought hate. Illustrated by B. Farnsworth. Morton Grove, IL: Albert Whitman. (3-6).

 

Cohn’s powerful narrative tells how two children, two families - one Jewish, one Christian - and a community resolve to stand together against the shameful actions that have been happening in their home town. Her story is based on real events that happened in Billings, Montana, in 1993. Farnsworth’s beautiful paintings illuminate the message of the power of goodness. (amazon.com)

 

Drucker, M. (1994). Jacob’s rescue: A Holocaust story. Illustrated by M. Halperin. New York: Yearling Books. (4-6)

 

In answer to his daughter’s questions, a man recalls the terrifying years of his childhood when a brave Polish couple, Alex and Mela Roslan, hid him and other Jewish children from the Nazis. Based on a true story. (card catalog)

 

Ducharme, D. F. (1997). The treasure in the tiny blue tin. Fort Worth, TX: Texas Christian University Press. (4-6)

 

In the early 1900s in Texas, a twelve-year-old Jewish immigrant runs away to search for his father who he fears is sick, and he is joined on his dangerous journey by a prejudiced country boy. (Borders.com)

 

Ginsburg, M. (1983). The tattooed Torah. Illustrated by J. Gershman & M. Lemelman. New York: Union of American Hebrew Congregations. (4-6)

 

A small Torah stolen and desecrated by Nazi soldiers in Czechoslovakia is eventually rescued and restored to people who appreciate it. (card catalog)

                    

Heller, L. (1990). The castle on Hester Street. Philadelphia, PA: Jewish Publication Society. (K-3)

 

Julie’s grandmother deflates many of her husband’s tall tales about their journey from Russia to America and their life on Hester Street. (amazon.com)

 

Hesse, K. (1997). A time of angels. New York: Disney Press. (5-6)

 

When an influenza epidemic breaks out in the midst of World War I, Hannah must leave her home in Boston, as she travels to Vermont guided by a girl with violet eyes, and tries to regain her health. (amazon.com)

 

Hesse, K. (1993). Letters from Rifka. New York: Puffin. (4-6)

 

In letters to her cousin, a young girl chronicles her family’s flight from Russia in 1919 and her own experiences when she must be left in Belgium for a while when the others emigrate to America. (card catalog)

 

Hurwitz, J. (2000). Faraway summer. Illustrated by M. Azarian. New York: Avon. (4-6)

 

In the summer of 1910, Dossi is surprised and terrified to discover that her sister is sending her to a Vermont farm on a charity-sponsored vacation. The landscape and the people of Vermont are very different from her urban Jewish tenement, but Dossi is enchanted by the big blue sky and the peaceful countryside. She longs to make Emma Meade, the brooding daughter of her Christian host family, her friend, and she fills a journal with her thoughts, fears, and impressions of a universe very different from her own. And soon Dossi begins to realize that, sometimes, worlds apart are not so far away from each other after all. (amazon.com)

 

Kurtz, J. (1998). The storyteller’s beads. Illustrated by M. Bryant. New York: Gulliver Books. (5-6)

 

During the political strife and famine of the 1980’s, two Ethiopian girls, one Christian and the other Jewish and blind, struggle to overcome many difficulties, including their prejudices about each other, as they make the dangerous journey out of Ethiopia. (amazon.com)

 

Kuskin, K. (1995). A great miracle happened there: A Chanukah Story. Illustrated by R. A. Baker. New York: HarperTrophy. (K-3)

 

On the first night of Chanukah, a mother tells her family and a guest about the history behind the Festival of Lights, in a meditative holiday tale complemented by evocative watercolors of biblical and modern times. (amazon.com)

 

Lasky, K. (1998). Dreams in the golden country: The diary of Zipporah Feldman, a Jewish immigrant girl. New York: Scholastic Trade. (4-6)

 

Twelve-year old Zippy, a Jewish immigrant from Russia, keeps a diary account of the first eighteen months of her family’s life on the Lower East Side of New York City in 1903-1904. (card catalog)

 

Lasky, K. (2002). Marven of the Great North Woods. Illustrated by K. Hawkes. New York: Voyager Books. (1-4)

 

With a daughter’s fitting reverence, Lasky tells the story of her father, Marven, who was sent away from his family at the age of ten to work in a logging camp. Duluth, Minnesota, is plagued with influenza in the winter of 1918, so Marven’s parents send off their only son to the great north woods for the winter. As the train pulls away, Marven is in the middle of nowhere; he must ski five miles to meet his new employer. The young boy is given the job of bookkeeping and the daunting task of waking the lumberjacks who linger in bed in the morning. Marven grows close to Jean-Louis, the giant sleepyhead of the bunch. (Kirkus Reviews, 1997)

 

Leder, J.M. (1996). A Russian Jewish family. Minneapolis, MN: Lerner Publications. (4-6)

 

Describes one Jewish family’s fourteen year struggle to emigrate from Leningrad in the Soviet Union to Chicago, Illinois, and the adjustments they had to make. (card catalog)

 

Lehrman, R. (1992). The store that mama built. New York: MacMillan. (4-6)

 

Birdie, a young Jewish girl, and her immigrant mother both shoulder the responsibility of maintaining the family store when Birdie’s father dies suddenly after moving the whole family from New York City to a small town in Pennsylvania. (amazon.com)

 

Levine, A. (1997). All the lights in the night. Illustrated by J. Ransome. New York: Mulberry Books. (1-4)

 

Moses and his little brother Benjamin find a way to celebrate Hanukkah during their dangerous emigration to Palestine. (card catalog)

 

Levitin, S. (1996). Annie’s promise. New York: Aladdin Paperbacks. (4-6)

 

The Platt family, driven from their home in Germany by WWII, struggles to adapt to their new life as Americans. For 12-year-old Annie, there’s the additional challenge of establishing her independence from her old-fashioned parents. When Annie is invited to attend a summer camp in the California mountains, it’s a chance for her to find her own identity--and to discover some surprising strengths and flaws in herself and in her family. (amazon.com)

 

Levitin, S. (1987). Journey to America. Illustrated by C. Robinson. New York: Aladdin Paperbacks. (4-6)

 

A Jewish family fleeing Nazi Germany in 1938 endures innumerable separations before they are once again united. (card catalog)

 

Levitin, S. (1992). Silver days. New York: Aladdin Paperbacks. (4-6)

 

In this sequel to Journey to America, the reunited Platt family works hard at settling in to America, but the specter of the war in Europe continues to affect their lives. (card catalog)

 

Lowry, L. (1998). Number the stars. New York: Laureleaf. (4-6)

 

In 1943, during the German occupation of Denmark, ten-year old Ann Marie learns how to be brave and courageous when she helps shelter her Jewish friend from the Nazis. (card catalog)

 

Machlin, M. (1999). My name is not Gussie. New York: Houghton Mifflin. (3-5)

 

A series of brief anecdotes told in the highly original and captivating voice of the author’s grandmother describes in merry and precise detail the experience of leaving eastern Europe at the turn of the century and making a new home on New York’s Lower East Side. Colorful, expressive paintings, infused with both the New World’s energy and the folkloric warmth of the old, provide a perfect visual complement. (Horn Book, 1999)

 

McDonough, Y. Z.  (2005). The doll with the yellow star.  Illustrated by K. B. Root. Holt.  (3-5)

 

Eight-year-old Claudine, who lives with her parents in Nazi-occupied France, is upset by the yellow stars that she and the other members of her family are required to wear. She sews a star on the velvet cape of her treasured doll, Violette, but she affixes it to the inside of the garment so she can decide whether to let it show. When Claudine is sent to live with relatives in America, she loses both her doll and her family. Writing a Holocaust novel for young children is a tricky business, but McDonough succeeds in conveying the realities of war without terrorizing her audience. Violette is a symbol of innocence lost, but like Claudine’s father, the doll is miraculously found and restored by the end of the story. The use of the present tense brings a sense of immediacy to the telling, while Root’s full-color artwork lends a feeling of reassurance. Give this to fans of Amy Hest's Love You, Soldier (1993), also set in New York City, but with an American Jewish protagonist. (Booklist)

 

Michelson, R.  (2008).  As Good as Anybody: Martin Luther King and Abraham Joshua Heschel's Amazing March Toward Freedom.  Illustrated by R. Colon.  Knopf.  (2-4)

 

Michelson (Tuttle's Red Barn) deftly draws comparisons between Martin Luther King Jr. and the German-born rabbi Abraham Joshua Heschel as he describes what led them to walk together in the famous 1965 civil rights march from Selma to Montgomery, Ala. His brisk narrative, divided in two parts, chronicles their parallel experiences: both have parents who instill self-respect, both encounter discrimination and hatred, and both follow their fathers into religious careers. The first half, which Colón renders in earthy hues, covers King, while the blue palette of the second half focuses on Heschel. (Blue reminded the illustrator of "old movies about Europe in the World War II era.”) Similar language in both sections, e.g., the titular "You are just as good as anybody,” as well as scenes that echo each other, drive home the connections. Subtle variations in wording and layout keep the parallels from feeling contrived. Colón’s (My Mama Had a Dancing Heart) trademark mixed-media illustrations incorporate wavy, etched lines full of movement, suggesting the dynamism of a pastor and rabbi who insisted on bringing about change.  (Publisher’s Weekly)

 

Oberman, S. (1997). The always prayer shawl. Illustrated by T. Lewin. New York: Puffin. (1-4)

 

An ancient prayer shawl teaches Adam the importance of tradition and change in a story that spans six generations, from Czarist Russia to the present day. (amazon.com)

 

Oppenheim, S. L. (1995). The Lily cupboard: A story of the Holocaust. Illustrated by R. Himler. New York: HarperTrophy. (1-4)

 

Miriam, a young Jewish girl, is forced to leave her parents and hide with strangers in the country during the German occupation of Holland. (amazon.com)

 

Roseman, K. (1998). Melting pot: An adventure in New York (The Do-It-Yourself Jewish Adventure Series). New York: Union of American Hebrew Congregations. (4-6)

 

As a young Jewish immigrant to New York from Russia at the turn of the century, the reader must make decisions that could mean success or failure as he tries to establish himself in his new country. (amazon.com)

 

Roseman, K. (1993). The other side of the Hudson: A Jewish immigrant adventure (The Do-It-Yourself Jewish Adventure Series). New York: Union of American Hebrew Congregations. (4-6)

 

As a young Jewish immigrant from Bavaria in the mid-nineteenth century, the reader makes decisions that mirror the choices made by new Jewish Americans as they settled in the United States. (Borders.com)

 

Taylor, S. (2001). All-of-a-kind family uptown. Illustrated by M. Stevens. New York: Taylor Productions. (4-6)

 

There’s something to be said for a book that makes you wish you’d been part of a poor immigrant family living in New York’s upper east side on the eve of World War I. Sydney Taylor’s time-honored classic does just that. Life is rich for the five mischievous girls in the family. They find adventure in visiting the library, going to market with Mama, even dusting the front room. Young readers who have never shared a bedroom with four siblings, with no television in sight, will vicariously experience the simple, old-fashioned pleasures of talk, make-believe, and pilfered penny candy. The family’s Jewish faith strengthens their ties to each other, while providing still more excitement and opportunity for mischief. Readers unfamiliar with Judaism will learn with the girls during each beautifully depicted holiday. (amazon.com)

 

Wild, M. (1996). Let the celebrations begin. Illustrated by J. Vivas. New York: Orchard Books. (K-3)

 

A child, who remembers life at home before life in a concentration camp, makes toys with the women to give to the other children at the very special party they are going to have when the soldiers arrive to liberate the camp. (card catalog)

 

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Poetry:

 

Gershman, S.  (2007).  The bedtime Sh’ma: A good night book.  Illustrated by K. Swarner.  EKS Publishing.  (K-1)

 

The beautiful artwork and simple language of this unique book for very young Jewish children provides families with a satisfying bedtime ritual with which to end the day. Sarah Gershman has adapted the collection of psalms, poems and prayers of The Kriat Sh'ma al HaMitah, into child-friendly verses that focus on themes of protection and preparing for sleep. The accompanying serene and lovely artwork by Kristina Swarner, in hues of deep purples and blues, along with the flowing typeface design, make this a truly beautiful adaptation of the Bedtime Sh'ma. (Jewish Book World)

 

Hopkins, L. B., selector. (2005). Hanukkah lights: Holiday poetry. Illustrated by M. Hall. HarperTrophy. (K-3)

 

Share in the joy of Hanukkah . . . light by light, poem by poem. (amazon.com)

 

Livingston, M. C. (1986). Poems for Jewish holidays. Illustrated by L. Bloom. New York: Holiday House. (K-3)

 

A collection of sixteen poems, by twelve contemporary authors, celebrating Jewish Holidays such as Yom Kippur and Purim. (card catalog)

 

Rosenfeld, D. (1992). Why the moon only glows. Illustrated by Y. Holtzman. New York: Haichai Publishing. (K-3)

 

This story is just for you, if you would like to know, why the sun can shine so brightly, but the moon only glow! Looking for the perfect bed time story? This age-old story from the Midrash, retold in rhyme for the very young child and illustrated with dreamy watercolor paintings, creates just the right mood for sleep. (amazon.com)

 

Rouss, S. A. (1992). Fun with Jewish holiday rhymes.  Illustrated by L. Steinberg. New York: Union of American Hebrew Congregations. (K-3)

 

Illustrated rhymes accompanied by movement activities introduce the holidays of the Jewish calendar. (card catalog)

 

Silverman, M. (1994). My first book of Jewish holidays. Illustrated by B. Garrison. New York: Dial Books. (K-4)

 

With simple language framed in short stanzas, the major Jewish holidays are explained from a traditional point of view. Colorful, stylized collagraphs illustrate the text with the symbols and celebrations of each holiday. A glossary with a pronunciation guide enhances the book. (Horn Book, 1995)

 

Ziefert, H.  (2008).  Hanukkah haiku.  Illustrated by K. Gudeon. Apple.  (K-2)

 

Here’s a cultural crossover that pays off: a traditionally Japanese poetic form used to celebrate the eight nights of Hanukkah. There’s one haiku for each night and stepped pages add one candle to the menorah every time the page is turned. The simple poetry is set off perfectly by Karla Gudeon’s vibrant freewheeling artwork. A perfect gift or good to reread each year Hanukkah Haiku is a jubilant unforgettable journey through the eight nights of Hanukkah.  (amazon.com)

 

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Fantasy:

 

Benderly, B. L. (2000). Jason’s miracle: A Hanukkah story. Morton Grove, IL: Albert Whitman. (4-6)

 

On the first night of Hanukkah Jason is upset. Christmas is everywhere, and his family won’t celebrate it even a little. His dad is firm in his beliefs about the miracle of Hanukkah. But Jason gains a new perspective when he is transported back in time and welcomed as a friend of the Maccabees. With Jason’s help, the Maccabees defeat the Syrians, regain Jerusalem, and witness the miracle of the lights. (Borders.com)

 

Bunting, E. (1996). Terrible things: An allegory of the Holocaust. Illustrated by S. Gammell. Dulles, VA: Jewish Publication Society. (K-3)

 

In this allegory, the author’s reaction to the Holocaust, the animals of the forest are carried away, one type after another, by the Terrible Things, not realizing that if perhaps they would all stick together and not look the other way, such terrible things might not happen. (card catalog)

 

Kimmel, E. A. (1998). When Mindy saved Hanukkah. Illustrated by B. McClintock. New York: Scholastic Trade. (K-3)

 

Once upon a time, a little family named Klein lived behind a crack in the wall in the Eldridge Street synagogue. This is the warm, lively story of the year that brave little Mindy brought home the Hanukkah candle. (card catalog)

 

Kimmelman, L. (2000). The runaway latkes. Illustrated by P. Yalowitz. Morton Gove, IL: Albert Whitman. (K-3)

 

As Rebecca prepares for a Hanukkah party at the synagogue, three latkes jump right out from her frying pan and head straight for the door in this Hanukkah-themed variation of “The Gingerbread Man”.  (Borders.com)

 

Melmed, L. K. (2000). Moishe’s miracle: A Hanukkah story. Illustrated by D. Slonim. New York: HarperCollins. (K-3)

 

On the night before Hanukkah, in the poor village of Wishniak, milkman Moishe’s sharp-tongued wife, Baila, scolds him for being too generous with their hungry neighbors. Now they have no money to buy eggs and flour to make the traditional Hanukkah latkes. Moishe escapes to the cowshed to sleep in peace. When he awakens, he finds that his cows can speak to him: "MOO-oishe! MOO-oishe!”  They inform him that he has been given a magical gift, a pan that, when set upon the fire totally empty, will produce as many latkes as he wishes. The gift comes with a warning, though. Only Moishe must use it. But what harm could it really do if Baila uses it just one time? (amazon.com)

 

Olswanger, A. (2005). Shlemiel crooks. Illustrated by P. G. Koz. NewSouth Books. (2-4)

 

Shtetl humor and magic realism come to St. Louis in 1919 in this wry Pesach story based on the experience of the author’s great-grandfather, who sold kosher wines. While Reb Elias is at synagogue leading a Talmud discussion (OK, an argument) about the first Passover (when the Israelites were booted out of Egypt), Pharaoh’s ghost arrives in St. Louis, still sneaking around and trying to put one over on the Jews. He persuades a couple of crooks ("onions should grow in their navels”) to steal Reb Elias’ special Passover wine, but with help from the prophet Elijah and a talking horse, the bumbling thieves are chased away by noisy neighbors. The boldly colored woodcuts give life to the city neighborhood, the foolish villains, and the lively arguments as well as to the daring Israelites, escaping across the desert 3000 years ago. The best thing here, however, is Olswanger’s Yiddish storyteller’s voice, particularly the hilarious curses she weaves into the story: "His teeth should fall out, except one, then he could have a toothache.” Great for reading aloud. (Booklist)

 

Polacco, P. (1995). Babushka’s doll. New York: Aladdin Paperbacks. (K-3)

 

While visiting her grandmother, Natasha demands that she drop her work whenever Natasha wants anything. When Babushka goes out, Natasha plays with a doll that springs to life. After running around to keep up with the doll’s demands, an exhausted Natasha has learned her lesson. The folk-art quality and colorful patterns are perfectly suited to the lively story. (Horn Book, 1991)

 

Rouss, S. A. (1993). Sammy Spider’s first Hanukkah. Illustrated by K. J. Kahn. Rockville, MD: Kar-Ben Copies. (K-2)

 

After having watched the Shapiro family celebrate the different nights of Hanukkah, Sammy Spider finds that in the end he gets to share the holiday with them. (card catalog)

 

Rouss, S. A. (1995). Sammy Spider’s first Passover. Illustrated by K. J. Kahn. Rockville, MD: Kar-Ben Copies. (K-2)

 

Sammy wants to help Josh find the afikomen but his mother reminds him, "Spiders don't celebrate Passover. Spiders spin webs”. His first attempt yields some surprising results. (amazon.com)

 

Rouss, S. A. (2000). Sammy Spider’s first Purim. Illustrated by K. J. Kahn. Rockville, MD: Kar-Ben Copies. (K-2)

 

The Shapiro family is getting ready for Purim. Josh is making a grogger to take to the synagogue Megillah reading. Sammy Spider wants to participate, but as Sammy’s mother reminds him, "Spiders don't celebrate holidays; spiders spin webs”. This time Sammy’s curiosity gets him stuck inside a grogger, spinning noisily among the beans. How will he escape? (amazon.com)

 

Rouss, S. A. (1996). Sammy Spider’s first Rosh Hashanah. Illustrated by K. J. Kahn. Rockville, MD: Kar-Ben Copies. (K-2)

 

Sammy’s newest adventure finds him knee-deep in honey, and eager to celebrate the New Year. The third in the popular Sammy series. (amazon.com)

 

Rouss, S. A. (1998). Sammy Spider’s first Shabbat. Illustrated by K. J. Kahn. Rockville, MD: Kar-Ben Copies. (K-2)

 

Sammy’s back, watching as the Shapiro family prepares for Shabbat. As they gather to light the candles, something unexpected happens. The fourth in the Sammy series.

 

Segal, E. (1999). Uncle Eli’s special for kids most fun ever under the table Passover Haggadah. Illustrated by B. Gordon-Lucas. San Francisco, CA: No Starch Press. (all ages)

 

In this one-of-a-kind children’s Haggadah, the mysterious and mischievous Uncle Eli retells the story of the Passover. The book’s enchanting rhymes and vivid illustrations breathe new life into the events, personalities, and rituals of the traditional Haggadah. You'll meet a cast of hilarious sages and unforgettable creatures including the Two-Headed Dray, Jacky the Juggler, Abie the Afikoman-thief, a six-legged moose named Harold, and Uncle Eli himself. (amazon.com)

 

Yolen, J. (1990). The devil’s arithmetic. New York: Puffin. (5-6)

 

Hannah resents stories of her Jewish heritage and of the past until, when opening the door during a Passover Seder, she finds herself in Poland during World War II where she experiences the horrors of a concentration camp, and learns why she  and we need to remember the past. (card catalog)

 

Zalben, J. B. (1998). Beni’s family treasury: Stories for the Jewish holidays. New York: Henry Holt. (PreK-2)

 

A collection of episodes in the lives of Beni and his family shows them observing their Jewish traditions as they celebrate the holidays of Rosh Hashanah, Sukkot, Chanukah, Purim, and Passover. (amazon.com)

 

Zalben, J. B. (1993). Happy New Year, Beni. New York: Henry Holt. (PreK-2)

 

After constantly fighting with his cousin Max during the celebration for Rosh Hashanah, Beni discovers that the New Year is an opportunity to put his mistakes behind him and start over. (card catalog)

 

Zalben, J. B. (1996). Papa’s latkes. New York: Henry Holt & Company. (PreK-2)

 

This Chanukah, Beni and his cousins are having a latke-making contest. Rosie’s turn out lumpy, Goldie’s are too raw, and Sam’s are too small. Then Papa steps in to show the little bears how to really make latkes as Jane Breskin Zalben celebrates the holiday season with tenderness and tradition. (amazon.com)

 

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