The Borrowed Hanukkah Latkes

Plot Summary

It's the last night of Hanukkah, and Aunt Tilly has just called to say that even more relatives are coming. When Mama and Rachel realize they are out of potatoes, Rachel decides to borrow from Mrs. Greenberg. Then she'll ask Mrs. Greenberg, who is all alone, to share Hanukkah with them. But Mrs. Greenberg is very stubborn!

Awards

1997 Notable Books for Children, Smithsonian Magazine; 1998-1999 Florida Reading Association Children's Book Award List

Reviews

"The bright, jovial illustrations move to a rhythmn of their own, delighting with repeated lines and patterns. . . . The well-told, well-illustrated, and entertaining holiday story has its own heart of gold." Booklist

"Rachel's wide-eyed, pig-tailed innocence belies her understanding that Mrs. Greenberg is a lonely neighbor who still needs someone with whom to share the holiday. A lovely message, wrapped in a light-hearted story." School Library Journal

"This lively tale of kindness and community is well served by the vibrant gouache paintings."
Children's Literature

"Rachel invites the elderly woman to join the celebration, but she insists that she's more comfortable at home--giving Rachel an idea that finally brings everyone together. Cheerful cartoon-style illustrations reflect the spirit and fun of the holiday."
The Horn Book Guide

Associated Keywords
holiday, Judaism, Judaica, Jews, Jewish, kindness, neighbors, intergenerational, multicultural