Synopsis
Discusses how the celebration of Hanukkah came about, what it signifies, and the ways in which it is celebrated today.
Kathie M. Josephs - Children's Literature
This book is part of a series entitled "Celebrating Cultures." Each chapter is two pages long with photographs, text, and a special feature in a box. Hanukkah is a time people of the Jewish faith remember an ancient miracle. The author takes the reader through each facet of the celebration. All words found in the glossary are in bold in the text and at the end of the book is a list of web sites and additional books on the topic. Teachers will enjoy the last two pages where there is an overview of facts about the holiday. While Foran was thorough in vocabulary choice, I wish she had included a pronunciation key for the Hebrew words. This would have made for smoother reading. Having a book like this in a personal or classroom library will help children explore a variety of cultures. I recommend this book. It is a fun and interesting way to learn about others. 2003, Weigl Publishers, Ages 8 to 10.
Editorials
Children's Literature
This book is part of a series entitled "Celebrating Cultures." Each chapter is two pages long with photographs, text, and a special feature in a box. Hanukkah is a time people of the Jewish faith remember an ancient miracle. The author takes the reader through each facet of the celebration. All words found in the glossary are in bold in the text and at the end of the book is a list of web sites and additional books on the topic. Teachers will enjoy the last two pages where there is an overview of facts about the holiday. While Foran was thorough in vocabulary choice, I wish she had included a pronunciation key for the Hebrew words. This would have made for smoother reading. Having a book like this in a personal or classroom library will help children explore a variety of cultures. I recommend this book. It is a fun and interesting way to learn about others. 2003, Weigl Publishers, Ages 8 to 10.—Kathie M. Josephs