WHILE THE CANDLES BURN

by Barbara Diamond Goldin ‧ RELEASE DATE: Oct. 1, 1996

In eight stories, Goldin (The Passover Journey, 1994, etc.) seeks to go beyond the specific historical basis for Hanukkah to the themes that the holiday celebrates: ""religious freedom and commitment, faith, courage, charity, rededication, honoring women at Hanukkah, lights, and miracles."" Several of the stories focus on maintaining faith in the face of persecution. Others take a look at the tension between pride and charity, or explore such timely themes as Arab/Israeli relations or the role of women in Judaism. Only one is specifically a Hanukkah story, but whether original or traditional (with sources cited in the back), all illuminate and celebrate the spiritual teachings of Judaism. Goldin's book is a welcome addition for its broad-based evocation of a rich culture, and while some readers will be bogged down by the introduction and background material, the tales themselves are wellchosen and simply told. Greenstein's illustrations--monoprints overlaid with gouache--have a rustic appeal. A worthwhile collection.

Pub Date: Oct. 1, 1996

ISBN: N/A

Page Count: 64

Publisher: Viking

Review Posted Online: N/A

Kirkus Reviews Issue: Sept. 15, 1996

Categories: CHILDREN'S