An Adventure in Latkaland: A Hanukkah Story

by Karen Fisman, Thomas McAteer (Illustrations)

Ideal for young readers who are outgrowing the typical Hanukkah picture books, this short, illustrated chapter book tells the story of Jacob Stern and his family, who are visited by a mysterious stranger on the first night of Hanukkah. The stranger leaves behind a golden dreidl as a gift, and late that night, with a magical spin, a girl named Sarah appears to take Jacob on an extraordinary adventure in Latkaland. The two must draw on their wits, courage, and history lessons as they embark on a humorous and exciting journey inspired by the story of the Maccabees.

64 pages, Paperback

First published October 1, 2009

Reviews

[Joseph · Rating 3 out of 5]

If I had a nickel for every book I've read about goblins trying to stop Hanukkah, I'd have two nickels. Which isn't a lot, but it's weird that it happened twice, right?

That said, I don't think this is quite as good as Hershel and the Hanukkah Goblins , or even this book's Purim-based sequel, where the writing was a bit more polished and holiday customs were better integrated into the plot (namely, in how the antagonists were defeated). But it's fun enough that its target audience would probably enjoy it.

[Camilla · Rating 5 out of 5]

My boys thought this was a fun, quick read around Hanukkah this year. It's a perfect mix of silliness and conveying the themes of Hanukkah.