OH Book Review: The Eight Nights of Hanukkah by Judy Nayer

I really do love children's holiday books. We fill our humble living space with decorations and a full basket of themed books we've collected over the years. At this point we have such a nice collection of books for each holiday that we are, perhaps, even slightly more excited about the books than the decorations.

And now that Festival of Lights is practically here we're gobbling up all our delicious Hanukkah books like a person devouring a plate full of piping-hot latkes and sufganiyots after saving her Weight Watchers points all day in anticipation of the big binge.

A new favorite of ours this year is The Eight Nights of Hanukkah by Judy Nayer. The book is formatted to follow the 8 days of Hanukkah. Each day shares the traditions Rebecca and her family during the holiday. Following her explanation of what they do on that particular day there are historical pages and activities to try.

The background pages are written in kid-friendly language discussing things like special Hanukkah blessing, the Hebrew calendar, the history of Hanukkah and the rules of Dreidel.

While the activities are a nice collection of crafts, recipes and songs that you can try out with your own kids. My favorites DIYs include a menorahs made from wood and bolts, a latke recipe (yum), gelt holders crafted out of recycled cereal boxes and Star Of David picture frames made from popsicle sticks. All super-fun activities that are super-easy for kids to craft.

This year I'm going to attempt to follow the days of Hanukkah using the book. It's taking a little extra planning on my part to make sure I have all the necessary materials (most of which I already own) for each night's activities but I can't wait to see how excited my kids get reading the book and DIY-ing with mommy and daddy. This is one Hanukkah book that's sure to add a little more warmth to your Festival of Lights.