Our Favorite Books for Hanukkah

I was so wildly blessed to become the godmother to a perfect little boy this year who is Jewish, which gave my boys and I a good reason to get the biggest stack of Hannukah books for kids and select our favorites to gift to him and his brother. Here is what we gave them:

Eight Sweet Nights: A Festival of Lights by Charlotte Offsay, illustrated by Menahem Halberstadt

Set in a cozy home filled with food, family, and tradition, this warm Hanukkah story celebrates the joy of gathering together. As each night unfolds, readers are invited into a loving household where memories, recipes, and rituals are shared. The book also includes informative side notes and back matter that help explain the significance of Hanukkah and its customs, which were particularly helpful for our family.

The Ninth Night of Hanukkah by Erica S. Perl, illustrated by Shahar Kober

When siblings Max and Rachel move to a new home just before Hanukkah, they discover their menorah is missing. With help from kind neighbors, they find creative ways to light candles each night, learning about generosity, gratitude, and community. By the ninth night, the family finds a special way to give back, creating a new tradition rooted in kindness.

Hanukkah Bear by Eric A. Kimmel, illustrated by Mike Wohnoutka

When Bubba Brayna cooks her famous latkes, the delicious smells attract an unexpected guest—a hungry bear fresh out of hibernation. This humorous and heartwarming Hanukkah tale blends folklore, gentle comedy, and holiday traditions, making it a classic favorite for celebrating the Festival of Lights.

The Eight Knights of Hanukkah by Leslie Kimmelman, illustrated by Galia Bernstein

In this playful Hanukkah adventure, eight knights are called upon to save the holiday when a dragon disrupts the celebration. Instead of fighting, the knights respond with generosity and teamwork, showing that kindness and helping others are the greatest strengths of all.

Latkes and Applesauce: A Hanukkah Story by Fran Manushkin, illustrated by Kris Easler

When a snowstorm threatens to cancel the Menashe family’s Hanukkah feast, two helpful pets come to the rescue. This sweet and simple story highlights problem-solving, perseverance, and the warmth of family traditions, making it a beloved introduction to Hanukkah for young readers.

Construction Site Hanukkah Lights: A Hanukkah Lift-the-Flap Book by Sherri Duskey Rinker, illustrated by AG Ford

Let’s just be honest: what little boy doesn’t love the beloved characters from the Goodnight, Goodnight Construction Site series and some lift-the-flap pages?

Would You Rather? Hanukkah Edition: Light Up the Season with a Hilarious Holiday Game for Kids by Lindsey Daly

This interactive Hanukkah-themed game book invites kids to laugh, think creatively, and spark conversation through more than 160 holiday-inspired “Would You Rather?” questions. Centered around Hanukkah traditions, food, candles, and celebrations, my seven-year-old was especially enamored with this one!