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With a nod to the Christmas Grinch, the Kvetch (or "complainer") of Oyville sees nothing joyous about Hanukkah and proceeds to steal all the menorahs. Like a group of determined Maccabees, the children gather to explain to the Kvetch that his thinking is all wrong: The holiday of Hanukkah is not just about glowing candles and gifts but about treasuring “true justice and charity” and showing “our dedication / To the strength and faith of our ancient nation.” Forced to see his bleak world more brightly, the Kvetch resolves his bitterness and fear. The often-forced Seuss-like rhyme is accompanied by busy, unpolished cartoons of Greek warriors, Maccabee defenders and a modern-day snow-covered community. This zany approach culminates with the Kvetch’s personal “great miracle” of happily lighting his own menorah. Enjoyable, if rough. (Picture book. 4-6)
