-My daughter loves reading; she’s entertained by reading her favorite book five times in a row. As much as I love seeing her enjoy her favorite book over and over again, by the fourth read, I’m a little over it. And that’s why I like to really take advantage of holidays and special occasions to buy her new books on new topics.
With Hanukkah quickly approaching (FYI, it begins on December 18!), it’s time to update our bookshelves with new stories teaching my daughter about the Festival of Lights. We’ve discovered a wide range of Hanukkah-focused stories, from educational to humorous. Not only do these books give us a break from our favorite classics, but they also add some excitement to the holiday season.
With a lot of focus on Christmas, those of us who celebrate Hanukkah can sometimes feel a little left out (to be honest, I’ve always wanted a tree!). But when I read books about our own celebration, it makes it more exciting and fun for our family.
Even if you don’t celebrate Hanukkah, remember it’s important for all kids to learn about and celebrate other cultures and traditions.
Even if you don’t celebrate Hanukkah, remember it’s important for all kids to learn about and celebrate other cultures and traditions. So no matter your religious background, consider adding some Hanukkah books to your home collection or next library pick-up.
Here are 15 Hanukkah books to check out with your little one(s) this season.
For Babies & Toddlers
Happy Hanukkah, Curious George
In this tabbed board book, Curious George learns all about the traditions of Hanukkah, from lighting the candles to spinning the dreidel and more. This book even comes with a recipe for latkes.
Happy Hanukkah, Pups!
For the Paw Patrol-loving kid in your life, share the nights of Hanukkah with Chase, Marshall, and the rest of the crew. Best for children ages 0-3.
Baby's First Hanukkah
Teach your little one the history of Hanukkah with this board book, from the story of the miracle of the oil to traditions like chocolate gelt.
Biscuit's Hanukkah
Biscuit wants to make his own menorah for Hanukkah, and once he does he's ready to celebrate the rest of the holiday's traditions with family and friends.
Grover's Eight Nights of Light
Grover has invited all his Sesame Street friends to celebrate Hanukkah with him. Follow along as the characters discover the whys and hows of celebrating Hanukkah together.
Latke, the Lucky Dog
Lucky Latke was rescued from an animal shelter on the very first night of Hanukkah. Although he might have some trouble learning the house rules, he celebrates the holiday all the same.
How Do Dinosaurs Say Happy Chanukah?
If you think dinos wouldn't celebrate Hanukkah, think again! This is a fun one for toddlers and is part of a series.
For Kids
Meet the Latkes
The Latkes are a family of potato pancakes who seem to think they have the story of Hanukkah memorized, but are actually missing a few important details. The Latke family dog tries to set the story straight for them.
The Night Before Hanukkah
Get excited for Hanukkah to begin by exploring some of the most celebrated traditions of the holiday with this book. The Night Before Hanukkah captures the love and joy of the holiday season.
The Story of Hanukkah
Hanukkah is about more than just family, friends, and chocolate coins—it's also a celebration of an important story that's fun to recount through this beautifully illustrated book.
Hanukkah Bear
The smell of Bubba Brayna's delicious latkes attracts all kinds of visitors, including a hungry bear. When Bubba Brayna accidentally mistakes the bear for her rabbi, the latkes for her guests quickly disappear.
A Rugrats Chanukah
For the nostalgia factor, grab a copy of this Rugrats book that you may enjoy even more than your kids.
Hershel and the Hanukkah Coblins
If you'd asked me if my 3-year-old would like this book, I'd have thought it would be too scary. But nope, it turned out to be one of her favorites that we read countless times last year. Go ahead and add it to your list (recommended for ages 4-8 years)!
The Eight Knights of Hanukkah
For dragon-loving littles, check out this book with knights and a dragon called Dreadful.
Sammy Spider's First Hanukkah
Sammy Spider books cover a range of Jewish holidays, so if your child is a fan this is a great one to add to your collection.
