Glancing at the book, ...

The history of Hanukkah is told to a Jewish family's non-Jewish neighbor. The mother explains that many of the Jews then followed Antiochus' laws because they were frightened. I suspect that many wanted to be contemporary citizens of the world. She pauses when she narrates how Mattathias killed a Jewish man and a soldier to explain that killing is wrong; her husband and the children agree. This is the first time I've seen this explanation. In fact, she says, "Even though Mattathias was angry at the terrible laws, he was wrong to kill people. Killing does not change laws; it just leads to more killing." Alas, I don't think that is what history teaches us.

The miracle of Hanukkah, is presented without commentary. It took eight days to get new oil.

We also learn that small presents, or none at all, are perfectly acceptable for the holiday. There is a discussion of what a miracle is. We learn about food for Hanukkah and what a dreidel is. ( )

Childrens Hanukkah Tale

On the first night of Hnaukkah, a boy invites his neighbor to join his family has they light the menorah and tell the story of the holiday. Mentions Christmas, and usually the menorah is lit when everyone in the family is present, not when the sister is napping or the guests have not arrived. ( )

5060