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The Miracle Jar
A Hanukkah Story

by Audrey Penn
Illustrated by Lea Lyon



      Audrey Penn’s story and Lea Lyon’s illustrations make The Miracle Jar an excellent way to introduce both Jewish and non-Jewish children to the story behind the story of Hanukkah.  This tale of Sophie and her brother Ruben helping with the preparation is somewhat tense as the mother reports there might not be enough oil to finish all the baked goods that go with the holiday celebration.  The father tells the story behind the story, and the events of long ago are acted out in a one-family setting.  Of course, the amount of oil is barely enough to get the job done, but it is enough—just as it was a long time ago when the background was laid for this Jewish holiday.  Each page of the book is filled with a beautiful illustration that practically tells the story, and the reading is easy enough for a very young reader.  However, the content will hold the interest of children up to eight years of age or even older.  Other than showing children how they can help with holiday chores, the book also gives an example of how children can be helpful to their parents at all times and not just for holidays.  This book should become a favorite at holiday time as it is used to show the diversity in religious observation.

The Book

Tanglewood Press
October 25, 2008
ARC for Hardback
1933718161
Children, ages 4-8
More at Amazon.com
Excerpt
NOTE: Holiday read: Hanukkah

The Reviewer

Willie Elliott
Reviewed 2008
NOTE:
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