Hanukkah Book Recommendations, curated by PJ Library

The Conscious Kid is honored to be partnered with PJ Library to share Jewish voices and stories. Providing early education about Jewish contributions, history and culture is an essential component of affirming Jewish identity and countering antisemitism. Every month, PJ Library sends more than 670,000 free books to families around the world raising Jewish kids from birth through age 12. They are dedicated to sharing Jewish stories that can help families talk together about important values, culture and traditions. A committee of writers, early childhood professionals, and Jewish content specialists seek out compelling stories, captivating illustrations, and diverse perspectives on Jewish customs and practice. Through an extensive evaluation process, the committee selects books for every age group. Many of the books selected to be included in PJ Library have received awards including Caldecott Medals and the Sydney Taylor Book awards, given to the best of Jewish children's literature. All families raising Jewish children are eligible to receive free books each month and can sign up here.

In celebration of Hanukkah, PJ Library has curated a list of their favorite children’s books and resources about the Jewish holiday:

Flip Flop Hanukkah by Danny Paller, illustrated by Aya Gordon-Noy

A new, interactive picture book from PJ Publishing introduces young readers and their families to Hanukkah traditions. Ages 2-5.

Antlers With Candles by Chris Barash, illustrated by Melissa Iwai

Even if children are too young to understand the history and details of a holiday, they are never too young to share in the joy of family, special foods, symbols, and singing – and that’s what this lively book is all about. Ages 2-4.

Hanukkah in Alaska by Barbara Brown, illustrated by Stacey Schuett

Hanukkah in Alaska is unlike anywhere else -- less daylight, more snow, and one very unexpected guest! Ages 6-7.

A Hanukkah with Mazel by Joel Edward Stein, illustrated by Elisa Vavouri

Poor Misha! He spends Hanukkah all by his lonesome... until Mazel, a hungry barn cat, strolls into his life. Misha may not have enough money to light Hanukkah candles, but with a little luck -- or Mazel! -- he can use his art to bring some light to the holiday. Ages 5-6.

Hanukkah Moon by Deborah Da Costa illustrated by Gosia Mosz

When Isobel is invited to Aunt Luisa’s for Hanukkah, she’s not sure what to expect. Days at Aunt Luisa’s are filled with fun and surprises – a new camera, a dreidel piñata filled with sweets, and a mysterious late night visit to welcome the luna nueva, the new moon that appears on Hanukkah. Ages 6 and up.

Meet the Latkes by Alan Silberberg

Grandpa Latke is telling the rest of the Latke family the story of Hanukkah -- but he seems to be a little confused about some the details. Is it Mega Bees or Maccabees? Can someone please set Grandpa straight? Ages 7-8.

The Ninth Night of Hanukkah by Erica S. Perl, illustrated by Shahar Kober

Max and Rachel have just moved -- and they're looking forward to celebrating Hanukkah, but the box with their menorah is still in transit. For all eight nights of Hanukkah, Max and Rachel have to figure out other ways to make the holiday special. Then, when their menorah arrives the day after Hanukkah finishes, they have a brilliant idea. Ages 6-7.

Nonna’s Hanukkah Surprise by Karen Fisman, illustrated by Martha Aviles

Rachel’s grandma, Nonna, doesn’t celebrate Hanukkah, so Rachel plans to bring Hanukkah to her house. When her plans go awry, Nonna makes it all okay. Ages 5-6.

The Parakeet Named Dreidel by Isaac Bashevis Singer, illustrated by Suzanne Raphael Berkson

A parakeet shows up at David’s family’s window one snowy Hanukkah night. When they can’t track down his owners, they happily adopt him as their own pet. But many years later David meets the bird’s original owner, Zelda. How can they both keep the parakeet? Ages 7-8.

Queen of the Hanukkah Dosas by Pamela Ehrenberg, illustrated by Anjan Sarkar

During a walk, our hero and his family get locked out of the house—but his wiggly little sister Sadie saves the day. This adorable story introduces readers to a wonderfully fun Hanukkah tradition: preparing and eating fried foods, and drives home a sweet message about honoring what makes each of us unique and special. Ages 5-6.

And also a shoutout to prolific Jewish author Eric Kimmel, who is the creator of tons of classic Hanukkah-themed titles including Hershel and the Hanukkah Goblins, Hanukkah Bear, When Mindy Saved Hanukkah, and more.

For additional titles, see the PJ Library’s Ultimate List of Children’s Books About Hanukkah.

Looking to share a Hanukkah lesson with your child’s class? Visit PJ Library’s “Hanukkah Hub” for activity round-ups, videos, songs, book lists and more.

PJ Library’s new podcasts, Afternoons With Mimi and Beyond the Bookcase both feature Hanukkah-themed episodes this November. In Mimi, listen to a child-friendly version of the Hanukkah story and learn about traditions such as eating fried food. Adventure along with Miri, Micah, and friends, in Beyond the Bookcase to learn about being brave and courageous, a major theme of the Hanukkah story. (More information at pjlibrary.org/podcast or listen wherever you enjoy podcasts).