Editorial Review

“Candles, latkes, gifts— Chanukah traditions bring light and joy to the dark days of winter. As you select presents for your children, we urge you to give them books. Each year, publishers offer new Chanukah titles, and this year there are some great choices. We gathered recently to discuss the new crop of Chanukah books:

AMY: Another good choice, and quite unique, is Nathan Blows Out the Hanukkah Candles by Tami Lehman-Wilzig, one of Kar-Ben Publishing’s reliable authors. In this story, young Jacob loves his autistic brother, Nathan, but is afraid Nathan will embarrass him by blowing out the Chanukah candles when their new neighbors come to celebrate with the family. The issue of autism is addressed honestly as the story shows Jacob both protecting and resenting his brother.

JUDY: I thought this was one of the best ones published this year, and it is unusual as it combines the holiday with an issue that many families deal with daily. It is very well told, and aimed at many people in the family. Really well done—and a good conversation starter.” —Jewish Community Voice