Hanukkah Picture Books
I get so excited when I find Hanukkah picture books in the library, a book store, or anywhere!
Choosing Hanukkah Picture Books
When picking a text to share with your class, your family, or any group of children, there are different aspects of the story to consider.
Hanukkah books will usually talk about the main holiday elements:
- playing dreidel
- latkes (fried potato pancakes)
- lighting the menorah
- sufganiyot (jelly donut)
- gelt (chocolate coins)
- menorah and candle lightings
- eight nights
- presents
If you want to learn more about the Hanukkah holiday, check out this article.
When searching for Hanukkah books for elementary age kids I usually look for these elements:
- relatable characters in age
- an engaging story
- an explanation of the parts of Hanukkah (especially if they are unfamiliar)
Think about what are you trying to teach the kids about the holiday? This could be an overview, dreidel game, the history, candle lighting, or the traditional foods.
I share all about my favorite Hanukkah board books for toddlers here!
Below I am sharing my favorite Hanukkah picture books that I have used in my classroom and with my own children. I hope the ideas and my thoughts on each help you pick the book perfect for you!
Picture Books with Hanukkah Stories
This is a very silly story. Have you ever read the dumb bunnies? It gives me those types of vibes. Although my toddler loves it because there are silly “random” things in there, older children who would get the jokes like the Maca-BEE would enjoy this book the most.
Sammy Spider is a sweet line of stories that tells about the holiday and traditions from the viewpoint of the spider. He watches as the family does the various Hanukkah activities. Also it is a great way to introduce kids to the parts of the holiday.
If you know me, you know that I love a fractured fairytale! This is a spin on little red riding hood with tons of Hanukkah fun mixed in. I use it more for a reading comprehension lesson of compare and contrast rather than the main book that teaches the parts of the holiday.
Ella and Noah Celebrate Hanukkah
This brother and sister duo always grab the attention of readers in their fun adventures exploring the holiday. The addition of stickers as part of this book always engage my kids!
This book touches on the excitement and anticipation of Hanukkah arriving and children looking forward what is to come. The family takes part in all of the traditional parts of celebrating the holiday. This is a great book to explain the holiday and for children who are familiar and excited for its arrival.
The mice family watches as the humans light the candles and they are wishing that they could celebrate. They search around the dollhouse and for toys to give them the materials they need to do the Hanukkah activities. A miracle occurs on the last night! This is heartwarming story kids will love!
Arielle and the Hanukkah Surprise
This is the book I ALWAYS use to teach my class the parts of Hanukkah. It is a cute story about a girl getting to light the menorah for the first time. Each part of the holiday is explained in a relatable way and starts wonderful conversations to define them.
This fun and engaging books uses silly characters like an octopus, a pirate, a jellyfish to each bring different pieces of the holiday to Monica’s house. It is an upbeat and quick read. It is great for children who understand what the parts of the holiday are familiar with the important pieces.
Familiar Character Hanukkah Books
The Count’s Hanukkah Countdown
Follow along with the Seasme Street friends as they enjoy latkes, talk about the story of Hanukkah, and emphasize why the number 8 is so important.
Grover’s Eight Nights of Light
The themes of friendship and kindness are shown as the Sesame Street friends help Grover celebrate Hanukkah and learn about the different traditions.
Clifford and Emily Elizabeth learn about the traditions of Hanukkah as they celebrate it for the first time. This is a cute story about how Clifford helps to save the celebration!
Nonfiction Hanukkah Picture Book
This National Geographic Kids book provides a lot of real photographs and a great explanation of the holiday traditions. I love the opportunity for kids to see other children their age taking part in the celebrations.
This would pair perfectly with a comprehension Hanukkah nonfiction activity!
If you are looking for more Hanukkah ideas, check out my toddler Hanukkah board book list here.
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