Eight Lights for Eight Nights

by Debbie Herman, Ann D. Koffsky

Here is a wonderful, beautifully illustrated book to help inspire Jewish children in celebration of Hanukkah, the festival of lights, while also telling boys and girls of all faiths the fascinating story and traditions connected with this festive holiday. The book’s first part tells the story, taken from The Book of Maccabees and other historical sources, of how Antiochus of Syria invaded the land of Judea and forbade the Jews to perform their religious rites, which included lighting the menorah. The story goes on to tell how the Syrians were ultimately defeated and driven away by the Maccabees, and how the Temple of Jerusalem was restored and its menorah lighted and miraculously kept burning. This book’s remaining pages describe the joyful Hanukkah rituals meant to commemorate the miracle of the menorah. Children read about the special foods for Hanukkah, learn to light Hanukkah candles, make lots of fun, innovative crafts, play dreidel with chocolate Gelt, and generally celebrate this joyous holiday. Includes sidebars with cool facts! (Ages 6–9)

48 pages, Paperback

First published September 1, 2003