The Best Hanukkah Books of 2019 {booklist}

I spent a semester in undergrad studying abroad in Israel.  I fell in love with the country, the culture, the people, and so much of the food.  The Jewish and Islamic religions have always had a special place in my heart since that semester abroad. 

I had the absolute best time reading Hanukkah books this holiday season.  My kids and I would snuggle on the couch and read away; I loved how much they learned about Hanukkah and the discussions we had.  I will say that the I am a bit bummed the selection of Hanukkah books is far more limited than Christmas picture books; however, there are some real gems in this list that you must read.  

Whether you celebrate Hanukkah or not, I hope you will check out some of these awesome books.  

Best Hanukkah Books of 2019

9 Books b/c I just couldn’t pick eight

Little Red Ruthie by Gloria Koster

Little Red Riding Hood with a Hanukkah twist.

Simon and the Bear by Eric Kimmel

Simon learns that the Hanukkah Festival of Lights can still bring miracles.  A sweet story that will warm your heart.

The Dreidel That Wouldn’t Spin: A Toyshop Tale of Hanukkah by Martha Seif Simpson

This picture book is definitely on the longer end, but it is a great reminder of the true spirit of Hanukkah.

Kugel For Hanukkah? by Gretchen M. Everin

Each night of Hanukkah brings a different gift, but for this family the gifts add up to something delicious and something new.  It’s a fun story that shows intergenerational relationships. 

Is It Hanukkah Yet? by Chris Barash

A fun and simple rhyming story portraying Hanukkah during the winter season.

The Hanukkah Hop! by Erica Silverman

Hanukkah has traditions, and for some games and dancing together is one of those traditions.  This rhyming story will get your feet tapping along to its beat. 

I Know an Old Lady Who Swallowed a Dreidel by Caryn Yacowitz

The classic story with a Hanukkah twist is fun, and the illustrations are unique.  David Slonim, the illustrator, has the Old Lady portrayed in many “classics” like the Mona Lisa.  Definitely a book to check-out. 

Nonna’s Hanukkah Surprise by Karen Fisman

A story of how love and traditions helps one intergenerational family celebrate Hanukkah and Christmas. The illustrations are simply beautiful.

Light the Menorah! A Hanukkah Handbook by Jacqueline Jules

This nonfiction book is definitely a handbook.  It provides a plethora of information about the holiday as well as a poem for each of the eight nights.  You’ll probably surprise yourself with how much you love this book.

Do you have a favorite Hanukkah book?  

The Best Christmas Books of 2019 {booklist}

My 7 year old bought his own mini Christmas tree that he could keep in his room.  He also bought little ornaments as well as made some decorations to go on the tree.  He loves that little tree and has kept it in his room for a year now.  

I, on the other hand, will happily take this Christmas Book Tree in my room. These are my favorite Christmas books this year.  Some of the books surprised me, some of them made me laugh, some of the books warmed my heart (and possible tear up b/c I'm definitely a crier), and some of them were just fun original stories.  My favorite books this year are listed below.  There are more than 25 books listed, b/c I believe Christmas can be enjoyed before December 1st, and maybe b/c I have a difficult time choosing.  More is definitely better when it comes to books. :) 

Included in the picture above are some of my very favorite Christmas books that I come back to year after year.  Books such as The Polar Express, How the Grinch Stole Christmas, 'Twas the Evening of Christmas, The Gingerbread Man Loose at Christmas, Santa Bruce, and the gorgeous Robert Sabuda Christmas pop-up books.  These books are always on my Christmas reading list, but this year the ones below also made the cut.

The Best Christmas Books of 2019

Sometimes 25 is just not enough.

ChristmasTree Book by Tomie dePaola

This book was originally published in 1980, but I have just now seen this gem of a book.  It’s a bit wordy, but I learned a TON about the history of the Christmas Tree.  Older elementary school kids who love Christmas will find this intriguing. 

The Christmas Tree Who Loved Trains by Annie Silvestro

Any train loving kid will adore this book that combines trains and Christmas trees.

The Broken Ornament by Tony DiTerlizzi

A book about a boy, Jack, decorating their family Christmas tree learns that bigger and more is not always best when it comes to Christmas. 

Cobweb Christmas: The Tradition of Tinsel by Shirley Climo

Oh, how I love this story.  The illustrations are perfect for this beautiful old folktale. This book is a Christmas book to own.

The Legend of Old Befana by Tomie dePaola

This story has dePaola all over it; the illustrations are fabulous, and the story is an oldie but goodie.  It’s a beautiful retelling of a classic story, Italian in this case.  I love that dePaola’s books are so good that reprintings keep happening. 

Nutcracker Night by Mireille Messier

I was actually surprised by this book; I first thought this book would be just another Nutcracker ballet book.  However, the writing is short and sweet and the story is not just a Nutcracker retelling. 

The Twelve Days of Christmas illustrated by Emma Randall

A black covered Christmas book is not one you see often, but I’m liking it.  This book is the classic poem/song; nothing is added.  However, the pictures are fresh, fun, and almost whimsical like.  A treat of a book for sure. 

A Very Fiona Christmas by Richard Cowdrey

I was definitely not expecting to like this book; I thought it was a Christmas spinoff of the Fiona the Hippo book.  However, a cute story about a cute hippo that just wanted to know what Christmas was is definitely worth a checkout.   

Angela’s Christmas by Frank McCourt

Apparently this book is now a Netflix movie; and if it’s as lovely as this book’s story and illustrations than it will be fabulous.  This feel good book about a caring little girl and a baby Jesus is just sweet.

Long Ago on a Silent Night by Julie Berry

A book with rhythm, rhyming, and the ability to pull on your Mom heartstrings is a definite read this holiday season.  If you know someone that will be a new mom this Holiday season this book would make for an excellent gift.  It’s sweet and full everything nice. 

Between Us and Abuela: A Family Story from the Border by Mitali Perkins

For the first week we had this book checked out I had no idea it was a Christmas book.  It’s not your typical Christmas book, but it is a lovely story about a family separated by the US/Mexico border celebrating Las Posadas.  This is the perfect Holiday season feel good story.

The Most Wonderful Gift in the World by Mark Sperring

A gift for Little Bunny Boo-Boo was left under Bear and Esme’s tree.  They have to travel through treacherous terrain to deliver the gift, but making a new friend proves it to be worth it.

Santa’s Prayer by Tom Roberts

A lovely Santa story that explains the reason for the season.    

Santa’s Story by Will Hillenbrand

Beautifully illustrated with a twist on the classic night before Christmas Story.

Dasher by Matt Tavaras

This story has had me gushing over it’s illustrations from first sight. Add the fact that this story explains why Santa has reindeer, and you’ll love this story of one reindeer’s courage.

Ho Ho Homework by Mylisa Larsen

Could Santa be their substitute?  This new Santa looking substitute sure has a magical effect on Jack and his class.

There’s an Elf in Your Book by Tom Fletcher

From the author of There’s a Monster in Your Book comes another fun interactive story that will have you touching your nose and naming reindeer.  It’s a fun story that’s definitely worth a checkout.

Little Robin’s Christmas by Jan Fearnley

Robin may be the nicest little bird with all the stylish vests.  His selflessness is a beautiful reminder. 

Christmas for Greta and Gracie by Yasmeen Ismail

Whether it’s siblings or best friends there’s always one who is the bigger talker.  Greta is definitely the talker, but on Christmas Eve something Gracie does will leave Greta speechless. 

The Great Santa Stakeout by Betsy Bird

Freddy loves Santa, but he also wants to catch him.  He pulls out all the fancy tricks and traps, but it may not be enough to catch the big guy. 

A Christmas Gift for Santa: A Bedtime Book by J. Theron Elkins

A simple rhyming story about a gift Santa can’t find. 

Where Do Diggers Celebrate Christmas? by Brianna Caplan Sayres

This rhyming Christmas book is for fans of big trucks and construction vehicles. 

Cookies for Santa: The story of how Santa’s favorite cookie saved Christmas by America’s Test Kitchen

To be honest this would be my first fiction story by ATK.  I own many of their cookbooks, but this Christmas picture book is cute. Though the writing doesn’t leave me in love the story is cute.  The Holidays and cookies are a big deal; a cute book about cookies with a yummy recipe at the end is definitely one to check out. 

Bad Kitty Searching for Santa by Nick Bruel

I adore A Bad Kitty Christmas and was actually surprised there was another Bad Kitty Christmas book.  Bruel’s latest Bad Kitty book is not as wordy, great illustrations, and a funny story.  Definitely one to check out. 

Dear Santa, I Know it Looks Bad But it Wasn’t My Fault! by Norma Lewis

Cat owners and cat lovers will definitely need to read this fun Christmas book.  It’s surprisingly fun.

The Smallest Gift of Christmas by Peter Reynolds

Reynolds writes such poignant and inspiring books, and I was ecstatic to come across a Christmas book by him.  This story is silly yet sweet reminding readers that the size of a gift is not what’s most important. 

Santa and the Goodnight Train by June Sobel

I’m not sure if there’s anything better than rhyming text, trains, and fun illustrations, but little ones will adore this Christmas book. 

What are your favorite must read Christmas books?  I love adding books to my must read list. 

Spooky Munchies for Spooky Reads {book list}

I'm a reading snacker; I admit it.  Admitting it is the first step I hear.  While my brain is reading I love to be doing something with my mouth.  Are you a reading snacker?  

I love drinking water while reading non-fiction.  I love salty snacks when things are intense.  I love sweets when the story is sweet 💖.  Depending how the story is going will depend on what snack I want to eat.  Unfortunately, I haven't quite figured out what kind of books causes me to munch on veggies and dip.  Hmmmmm

During the holidays reading snacks must be festive. It's pretty much a holiday reading rule.  ;)  With it so close to Halloween, obviously the snacks are holiday appropriate. 

I figured I might as well attempt to explain my reading snack madness to convert more of you over to the side of snacking by type of book/read. 

Spooky Munchies for Spooky Reads

Something Sweet

For me this means chocolate candy, though for those odd people (like a certain Mr. of mine) I know sweet sugary candy is preferred. 

I think any Halloween picture book fits in this category.

My favorite Halloween picture books this year are the following: 

Creepy Carrots

Creepy Pair of Underwear

Moldilocks and the Three Scares

Big Pumpkin

The Little Old Lady Who Was Not Afraid of Anything

Something Sour

When I say sour I mean sour candy.  Just sour doesn't do anything for me, but Sour Patch Kids every now and again, that is yum.  

Sour Candy books are a little weird but cool at the same time.  

Coraline is definitely a sour candy book. 

   Something Salty

Salty snacks have to have a crunch for me.  Potato chips are my go to salty reading snack.  

Salty books are intense books that keep me coming back for more intensity... just like salty chips.  

Cirque du Freak  is an intense, every chapter is a cliff hanger, salty chip book.  

Such a fun series, and a great classroom or family read aloud for 5th-8th grade kids. 

Something with Everything

Snacks that are sweet, salty, and crunchy are perfect for the spooky reads with intensity, action, humor, and a little quirkiness.  

Books that have it all deserve a snack that has it all.  

I used to make a candy corn and peanuts snack mix, but then I came across this recipe from Oh Sweet Basil.  It has since won my heart. #yummy

The Last Kids on Earth is a book with thrill and laughs.

Bonus, it is now on Netflix. 

Something Pumpkin

Seasonal reads always entice some seasonally flavored snacks, and ice cream is always a great reading snack.  

The season of pumpkins deserves a book that sweet and seasonal as well as a delicious treat like Pumpkin Ice Cream. 

Pumpkinheads is such a fun and sweet and seasonally festive graphic novel.  It's a book you could read in the time a big bowl of ice cream took you to eat.  

Thank you Penguin Kids for the fun book and an excuse to share some of my favorite Halloween books with the snacks I eat with them.  

Book Characters that Brave the Page and Write {book list}

All the cool kids talk about NaNoWriMo aka the month of November is National Novel Writing Month.  It's a fun way to look at creative writing.  To go along with the new book Brave the Page, I created a book list for you with AMAZING books that the main character writes letters, novels, poetry, or even raps.  These characters and books should definitely inspire any budding writer to give NaNoWriMo a shot, or at least start creating with the power of words now.  

Brave the Page is an awesome resource with tips, tricks, and inspiration from authors on how to start working on that goal of writing a book. 

Stephen King said, "If you want to be a writer, you must do two things above all others: read a lot and write a lot." 

If you need some writing inspiration, give these books a read.  

Characters/Books that Brave the Page

Becoming Madeleine: A biography of the author of A Wrinkle in Time by her Granddaughters by Charlotte Jones Voiklis

A beautiful and insightful look into Madeleine L'Engle's life never before seen poetry, letters, and even rejections for publications.  A fabulous biography for anyone interested in writing. 

Between the Lines by Nikki Grimes

A group of high school students build friendships and connections as they prepare for a boys vs. girls poetry slam.  This book is written in free verse. 

Dear Mr. Henshaw by Beverly Cleary

This classic children's literature book is a must read.  Leigh, a 10 year old boy, writes letters to his favorite author. The writing helps him cope with the challenges he is facing. 

Dear Sister by Alison McGhee

This illustrated novel is such a quick sweet read as a brother writes letters to his sister.  Not only is this book comical, but anyone with a sibling may feel the tugs on their heart.  

From Twinkle with Love by Sandhya Menon

 Twinkle, a shy aspiring filmmaker is directing a movie for an upcoming festival.  Her story is told through letters as she learns about love and the challenges of directing a movie. 

House of Dreams: The Life of L.M. Montgomery by Liz Rosenberg

Once upon a time there was a girl named Maud who adored stories.  Years later, she ended up not only owning many books, but she wrote 24 books including the Anne of Green Gables series.  

Little Women by Louisa May Alcott

Of course I had to include this classic; classics stand the test of time and they are definitely inspiring.  If you don't recall, Jo, the literary sister, loves to read and write.

The Night Diary by Veera Hiranandani 

Nisha, a 12 year old living in India during the 1947 partition is forced to flee her home.  She tries to make sense of it all by writing to her deceased Muslim mother. 

On the Come Up by Angie Thomas

Bri, a high school student, wants to become a rapper and escape the difficult inner city life she and her family currently have.  The book and the writing is absolutely fantastic.  The  audiobook brings the book and the rapping to life; it's a must listen to.  

The Poet X by Elizabeth Acevedo

Xiomara is constantly writing her frustrations, passions, and everything in between in her leather notebook.  She dreams of participating in a Poetry Slam with her own poems.  This is another must listen to as the author reads it, and she's amazing since she is a Poetry Slam Champion.  

Swing by Kwame Alexander

 A book written in free verse (aka a quick and fast read even reluctant readers will enjoy) about love, friendship, sports, and high school.  Noah decides to stop taking a backseat to his life; he decides to Swing and finally make his voice heard.

To all the Boys I've Loved Before by Jenny Han

Lara Jean writes letters to all the boys she has loved.  This book will have you cringing for her, and cheering her one as well.  This light romantic-ish contemporary ya lit is fun to read and there's even a Netflix movie out to watch after. 

Twelve awesome books where a main character writes and expresses him or herself.  Any books I should add to the list???

This book list consists of children's chapter books to adult classics with young adult and juvenile non-fiction biographies making strong appearances as well.  Basically, there is bound to be at least one, if not many, of these books you must read or listen too.  They are fantastic, and who knows... they may just inspire you to participate in NaNoWriMo this year. 

 

If you do participate, you must check out Brave the Page; it's an excellent resource that is fun to read.  

Thank you Penguin Random House for the Brave the Page book to read.  All thoughts on any of the books listed above are mine alone.  

Calling All Penguin Fans {book list}

Penguins are a big deal over here.  When my youngest was a newborn I placed a penguin in her crib.  I thought the contrasting colors would be great for her little newborn eyes.  Little did I know that black and white penguin stuffed animal would start an obsession. 

I'm pretty sure we have an entire penguin herd in our home.  She has penguin hats, singing penguins, big penguins, small penguins, medium penguins, tiny penguins, Little People penguins, holiday penguins, penguin necklaces, and penguin clothes.  She loves penguins, and has a deep desire to go see the penguins in their natural habitat.

Since a trip to Antarctica is not possible right now for this little 4 year old we read books.  Lots and lots of penguin books.  Luckily, there are so many great penguin books that she only mentions going to see the penguins (no zoos don't fulfill this little bucket list item for her) about once every other day.

I know there are many people that love penguins, and so you get our favorite aka obviously the BEST PENGUIN BOOKS. These are definitely books to check out, and luckily The Curse of the Werepenguin is a new middle grade fiction.  We got an early read, and my kiddos are all enjoying the story about two awesome kids and a curse of a penguin like monster.  It's definitely a humorous fantasy juvenile/kids chapter book.   

THE BEST PENGUIN BOOKS   

  

Waddle! by Rufus Butler Seder

This scanimation picture book is so fun and full of actions kiddos can do as you read it aloud.  There isn't anything much better than watching your child waddle across the room and then "slip-slide-swoop!"  Teachers will love the fun action words making it a perfect for a Word Choice lesson. 

Mr. Popper's Penguins by Richard and Florence Atwater

This book is the classic penguin chapter book with lots of fun, adventure, and silliness making it great for a classroom (2nd-4th grade) or family read aloud.  There's a reason it won a Newbery Honor; it's good.      

The Curse of the Werepenguin by Allan Woodrow

This newly published middle grade fiction is fun, and it is such a unique story.  Who would've thought to combine a penguin and a werewolf?!?  A fun and funny read aloud about friendship and a werepenguin, that kids in the classroom (3rd-6th grade) or your own kids will enjoy.   Fair warning, this book has monsters, aka a werepenguin or a penguin/werewolf, but it's a not-super-scary monster.  It's more like a funny monster.   

One Cool Friend by Toni Buzzeo

Elliot, a very proper, tuxedo wearing, young man, politely asks his distracted dad if he can bring a penguin home from the aquarium.  The adventures that go along with caring for a penguin makes for some good laughs, and the ending is surprisingly fun. Not only is the story superb, but this Caledcott Honor book has the best pictures. Such a fun read aloud young kids and older elementary kids will enjoy it equally well. 

Tacky the Penguin by Helen Lester

Tacky, is an "odd bird but a very nice bird to have around."  This picture book series is the best!  It is loved by the young, but kiddos in 2nd grade through 5th grade will find themselves enjoying the silliness and fun of Tacky.  

Little Penguin Gets the Hiccups and Little Penguin and the Lollipop by Tadgh Bentley

Bentley has a few"Little Penguin" books, and they all are creative and fun.  It truly is hard not to love this fun little penguin that always gets in the silliest of predicaments.

Penguin Problems by Jory John

Being a penguin isn't all it's cracked up to be.  You may not know, but penguins have problems too. You'll enjoy their "problems" and will LOVE the walrus.  This book is not only fun, but it has a good message.  

365 Penguins by Jean-Luc Fromental

This math nerd loves the combination of math fun and penguin silliness/craziness.  With this book you'll enjoy the craziness that comes when a penguin shows up on the same front porch every single day of the year.   It must be an Amazon Prime subscription thing. 😉 

Do you have any favorite penguin books we should add to the list? 

Thank you Penguin Random House for The Curse of the Werepenguin.  All thoughts on this book, and all of the books, are mine alone.