Chanukah Lights Everywhere
by Michael J. Rosen; Illustrated by Melissa Iwai
Published by Voyager Books Harcourt Inc. (October 2006 Release)
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Reviewed by Jill Stovall
Join a young family as they celebrate the Jewish Festival of Lights. This "miracle from long ago" is illuminated with the special rhythm of the eight-day ceremony in a cozy little neighborhood. The familiar cadence of "On the first night of Chanukah..." leads on sequentially to the last night of Chanukah.
Young children will love this repetition and the story that reveals the tradition of lighting the candles on the menorah in this snug and intimate family. The excitement of a little boy who joyfully anticipates the festivities is beautifully captured in the luminescent illustrations. Each night finds him observing a different set of lights echoing the numbers of candle flames. Headlights on Grandpa's car, lamps outside the door, sizzling flames under the pots of delicious food, and shiny silver dollars all challenge the reader to participate by finding the sources of light.
But the story reveals more. It embraces the beauty and tradition of a delightful holiday and the culture and values of a religion. From this perspective the lights from the entire world participate and comfortably create the atmosphere of home for the holidays.
Armchair Interviews says: This book is charming as well as educational.