Eight Candles and a Tree

Product Description Eight Candles and a Tree is for all children and families who celebrate both Christmas and Hanukkah. Sophie introduces her blend of Hanukkah and Christmas traditions to her friend Tommy, in vibrant illustrations and fun-to-read text. Ultimately, what matters most to both children is that their holidays are celebrated in the presence of loved ones. One in three U.S. couples are in religiously mixed marriages and half of all Jews marry outside their faith, according to recent surveys. Eight Candles and a Tree is a lively and colorful picture book that fills a content void for young children. From School Library Journal K-Gr 2—When Sophie invites her friend Tommy's family to her home for a Hanukkah party, she explains why they have a Christmas tree as well as two menorahs. Her dad is Christian, and her mother is Jewish. They share stories about their family traditions, and Sophie declares that she likes both holidays because they both have lights, songs, special foods, presents, and they celebrate them all together. Neither the simple text nor the bright illustrations are distinguished, but this picture book could meet a need for families that celebrate both holidays.—Virginia Walter, UCLA Graduate School of Education and Information Studies About the Author Simone Bloom Nathan, a grandmother of eight (almost nine), was inspired to write Eight Candles and a Tree after she was unable to find a picture book about a child who celebrates both Christmas and Hanukkah to give to her granddaughter. She has extensive professional experience as a writer and children's television producer and holds a master's degree from Harvard Graduate School of Education. She hopes that Eight Candles and a Tree will validate the experiences of the many families who observe the traditions of two religious holidays.