Best Hanukkah Ever Book

The Knoodle family is about to celebrate Hanukkah. They discuss what the rabbi has told them: "It is hard to give the perfect gift, one that will be treasured forever." What did the rabbi mean? Thinking they're to give one another a gift they'd really love to have themselves, they pick names from a hat. Bubby Sadie gives Little Yekl a pickle barrel. Mama Pearl gives Papa Jack a straw hat with yellow daisies -- something she has wanted her whole life! And so it goes. No one is happy...until the rabbi arrives and with Little Yekl's help, straightens things out. Then they all celebrate "the best Hanukkah ever!" Avi Katz's illustrations rendered in digital media bring this endearing story about holiday miscommunication to a proper conclusion.

Publishers Weekly

The Knoodles (as in, they don't use theirs) have pondered the rabbi's comment about giving the perfect gift ("one that will last forever") and, wanting to do right, set about choosing the best presents for each other. The revved-up expressions and high-wattage palette of the illustrations tip readers to expect exaggerated comedy, and sure enough, each Knoodle bestows what he or she would most like to receive. Why, wonders Bubby Sadie, does Little Yekl not treasure the pickle barrel that reminds her of Grandma Alte's in the old country ("Such pickles she made!")? Goldin's (While the Candles Burn) best this is not, but adults who like slapshtick will enjoy sharing this with kids. Ages 5-8. (Oct.)

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