The Festival of Lights: 16 Hanukkah Stories

Gr 5-8–A brilliant Hanukkah anthology that engages readers with Jewish culture and tradition. Beginning with an overarching introductory preview, readers then transition into contemporary stories with an understanding of Hanukkah’s historical roots. All the narratives, which are sandwiched between introductory and concluding poems, explore themes of grief and loss, the demise of culture and identity, holiday celebrations, and inclusivity. For example, R.M. Romero’s protagonist explores five sites her deceased grandmother would want her to visit, portraying an understanding of why history forced the generational loss of her Jewish heritage. Nancy Krulik’s “Cold Shoulder” introduces Mila’s Aunt Sophia, who while seeking refuge from Ukraine, teaches Mila how to celebrate Hanukkah and embrace her culture. Narratives also exhibit Jewish families who invite all friends in for Hanukkah celebrations, as in Bridget Hodder’s “The Thing about Stars” and Kimberly Brubaker Bradley’s “A Light in the Darkness.” While celebrating Jewish culture, this well-curated collection also invites readers to explore the human happenings that are timeless in middle school, such as fitting in, bullying, friendships, and crushes. All occurrences, in turn, engage readers and feature opportunities for them to develop empathy for all religious and cultural differences. This anthology is also well constructed, presenting more toe-deep issues early on and deep-rooted, emotionally poignant issues later, with superior choices for culminating narratives and poetry that structure the overall work in a meaningful regard.