The Hanukkah Trike

Plot Summary

Gabi Greenberg loved Hanukkah. She loved to watch the sun go down. She loved to see the sky grow dark. When the stars appeared, she loved to light the menorah.

When Gabi receives a new tricycle, she names it "Hanukkah" and vows to ride it everywhere. On her first try she falls off the trike, but she finds the courage to try again by remembering the brave Maccabees and their struggle and victory over King Antiochus and his army.

"I did it! I'm brave like the Maccabees!" And Gabi and Hanukkah went speeding down the sidewalk.

Reviews

"Edwards’ simple story introduces basic holiday history and traditions, emphasizing the Maccabees’ heroism and how this value can be applied in contemporary situations. Mitter’s gentle, acrylic illustrations portray a loving family, focused on Gabi’s wants and needs....a welcome addition to religious school collections....a useful introduction to the concept of perseverance." Booklist

"[Y]oung children will enjoy her success when she and 'Hanukkah' finally take off down the block." School Library Journal

'This book not only presents rituals and the story of Hanukkah in a child-friendly, non-denominational manner; it also talks of bravery and perseverance. The simple language and short sentences combine with colorful illustrations to make this a beginning reader welcome to many."
Children's Literature

"This book will add depth to the library's holiday picture book collection." Library Media Connection

Associated Keywords
chanukkah, jewish, judaic, holiday