Autorentext

Maurice J. Elias is a Professor of Psychology at Rutgers University and contributing faculty in Jewish Studies. His work centers on promoting joy, resilience, and emotional intelligence in children and families. He is co-author of Emotionally Intelligent Parenting, Talking Treasure, and The Joys & Oys of Parenting, and has written more than a dozen books for parents and educators. He and his wife live in Highland Park, New Jersey, close to their two daughters and three grandchildren.

Hector Borlasca is the illustrator of more than fifty children’s books, including Yiddish Saves the Day by Debbie Levy, The Porridge Pot Goblin by Jaqueline Jules, and Silly Time Stories by Robert Keith. He lives in Buenos Aires, Argentina, with his wife and daughter.

Klappentext

A playful Chelm folktale filled with humor and old-world charm, Hamantaschen for Hanukkah?! follows two wise siblings as a holiday mix-up turns into a celebration of tradition, laughter, and knowing when to trust your own understanding.

Oy vey. Is it Hanukkah or Purim?

In the famously foolish town of Chelm, the adults believe themselves to be very wise. So when a letter arrives from the chief rabbi wishing them a happy Purim, no one questions it, even though it is clearly Hanukkah. Soon the town is baking hamantaschen, sewing Purim costumes, and preparing for the wrong holiday altogether.

Only siblings Shmendrick and Mushka notice the mistake. As the adults argue and celebrate with great confidence, the children quietly decide to honor the holiday they know is correct, while still finding joy in the mix-up. Rooted in classic Chelm folklore, this joyful story celebrates humor, tradition, and the gentle wisdom of paying attention.