FICTION

Judah Maccabee Goes to the Doctor

by Ann D. KOFFSKY
illus. by Talitha Shipman. 32p. Apples & Honey. Aug. 2017. Tr $17.95. ISBN 9781681155227.
COPY ISBN
PreS-Gr 1—Judah Maccabee, the hero of Hanukkah, becomes a role model for bravery in this story about a boy who wants to be the best big brother ever. Young Judah has a baby sister, Hannah, who is a little too small to appreciate his efforts to engage with her. But when he receives a Maccabee shield for Hanukkah, he uses it to protect Hannah from getting too close to the stove and having snow fall on her head. A true challenge arises when the children go to the doctor for check-ups and Judah needs a vaccination. He is scared, but his father explains that the shot is like a shield and being vaccinated will protect not only him but also his baby sister. Unfortunately, the story ends up feeling more like a public health appeal than a holiday tale.
VERDICT A visually appealing book that uses the character of Judah Maccabee to raise awareness about the importance of vaccines for children. As a holiday book, it is additional.
Reviewed by Teri Markson, Los Angeles Public Library
A contemporary little boy named Judah tries to be the "best and bravest" brother (like Judah Maccabee, the hero of Hanukkah) for his baby sister--but she isn't interested in the block tower he builds, the cereal he offers, etc. When he needs a shot that will protect them both, he finds inner and outer courage. Colorful illustrations show a warm and loving family at Hanukkah.
 , Jun 01, 2018

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