Title: Hanukkah
at Valley Forge
Author and
Illustrator: Steven Krensky and Greg Harlin
Publisher: Dutton
Juvenile
Publication Date: 2006
ISBN Number: 978-0525477389
Amanda’s Rating: 4.6/5
Brief Summary: This
story is a fictional conversation set during the Revolutionary War at Valley Forge
between General George Washington and a Jewish soldier. After seeing the solider lighting his Menorah,
George Washington asks him to explain Hanukkah.
The soldier tells the trials of the Jewish people overcoming obstacles
and he ends up inspiring Washington to continue the fight against the
British.
Evaluation Statement: This is a great historical fiction book
for children. Not only do they see
George Washington at Valley Forge, but they also get to learn about Jewish
history and culture. Blues are used
during the cold, winter at Valley Forge scenes while warm yellows are used to
show flashbacks to Jewish history. The
similar colors on pages may become dull for younger readers. This would be a great book to educate young
children on the history on Hanukkah.
Does this book indicate if it is based on a true event? I wonder if the historical backdrop is simply used to teach about Jewish culture and religious beliefs or if the historical aspect is more tightly interwoven with the story.
ReplyDeleteThis seems like a great book to teach kids about Hanukkah and history.
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