The Book of Candles: Eight Poems for Hanukkah

Ages 4 to 8, Grades P to 3

From Sydney Taylor Award winner and National Jewish Book Award honoree Laurel Snyder and acclaimed illustrator Leanne Hatch comes a story of Hanukkah both reverential and modern, told through eight unforgettable poems.

In a dark, dark room,one thin candlewakes, bursts to lifeThus begins the first night of Hanukkah in this home. But what does the light from the candle mean? What are the words everyone is singing? What will each of the nights to come hold? Family and friends, takeout dinners and flat tires, traditions old and new—it’s all part of this year’s Hanukkah celebration.In this lyrical collection of poems and artwork, National Jewish Book Award honoree Laurel Snyder and acclaimed illustrator Leanne Hatch present a story of Hanukkah that is surprising, fresh, and deeply resonant.

About the Author

Laurel Snyder is the author of many picture books and novels for children, including National Book Award nominee Orphan Island, the Geisel Award winner Charlie & Mouse, the Sydney Taylor Award winner The Longest Night, and the National Jewish Book Award honoree The Witch of Woodland. A graduate of the Iowa Writers’ Workshop, she lives in Atlanta with her family. She can be found online at laurelsnyder.com.Leanne Hatch is the author and illustrator of The Brand-new, Never-used, Perfect Crayons; Rosie and the Pre-loved Dress; and Unraveled. She’s also the artist of My Thoughts Have Wings by Maggie Smith. With a background in both fine arts and fashion design, she divides her time between writing and illustrating for children, creating patterns for textiles, and designing accessories. She lives in the Pacific Northwest with her family. You can visit her online at leannehatch.com.