Children’s stories shed light on tradition

"The Story of Hanukkah" by Norma Simon, illustrated by Leonid Gore. Rich illustrations help this picture book teach the basics of the holiday. For ages 9 to 12. 32 pages, Harpercollins Publishers, $15.95.

"Chanukah Fun" by Tali Marcus Minelli, illustrated by Stewart Walton. A hands-on craft book that features stencils, cutout pages and puzzles. For ages 4 to 8. 32 pages, Tupelo Books, $7.95.

"The Borrowed HanukkahLatkes" by Linda Glaser, illustrated by Nancy Cote. A little girl teaches an elderly woman how to accept as well as give. For ages 4 to 8. 32 pages, Albert Whitman & Co. $6.95.

"Hershel and the Hanukkah Goblins" by Eric A. Kimmel, illustrated by Trina Schart Hyman. In this Caldecott Honor book, clever Hershel of Ostropol outwits the goblins that try to prevent a village from celebrating the Festival of Lights. For ages 5 to 8. 32 pages, Holiday House, $16.95.

"The Chanukah Blessing" by Peninnah Schram, illustrated by Jeffrey Allon. An Elijah story about a stranger who helps out a poor family after the family welcomes him. For ages 4 to 8. 32 pages, UAHC Press, $12.95.

"The Jar of Fools: Eight Hanukkah Stories from Chelm" by Eric A. Kimmel, illustrated by Mordicai Gerstein. These hilarious stories are set in the legendary Polish Jewish town of Chelm, a hotbed of fools. For ages 6 to 10. 64 pages, Holiday House, $18.95.

--Peter Ephross