Editorial Review

“Based on a true story, Nathan Blows Out the Hanukkah Candles by Tami Lehman-Wilzig with Nicole Katzman, illustrated by Jeremy Tugeau is a truly beautiful way of introducing young children ages 5 to 9 to a family with a special needs child.

The story is told by Jacob, whose older brother Nathan is autistic—’Nathan’s mind is wired differently,’ says Jacob, with both the understanding and exasperation of a younger brother.

It’s Hanukkah, and each night the family lights the candles in their menorah, and each night, Nathan blows them out.

How his family, together with their new neighbors, turn that into an unusual eighth night of Hanukkah, where respect, acceptance and acknowledgement replace any embarrassment, criticism or anger, will move an adult reading to a young child.

This gentle story is instructive without being heavy-handed, told with a natural style that rings true. It is an excellent introduction to a child with any type of special needs, whether as a sibling or a member of another family.”—Chicago Jewish Star