The Trees of the Dancing Goats

Drawing upon her own family's experience, Patricia Polacco shares a story of true holiday giving. Her Russian grandparents teach the meaning of friendship and miracles as they relate the story of Hanukkah and as they reach out to their Christian neighbors who are suffering from a deadly epidemic of scarlet fever. They adapt the symbols of their Jewish celebration to bring Christmas to those who are too ill to create their own festivities. Polacco's colorful illustrations capture the warmth and spirit of the characters and do much to enhance this wonderful story.

This is a great book! I will read it to my 4th and 5th grade class this year and discuss the love and open-mindedness of the Russian family. This book gives children and adults a genuine example of how they can honor others' beliefs and traditions.

This book is a rare find. Patricia Polacco grabs the readers interest with her usual warmth. The story tells of a winter on the farm when most of the rest of the families in the village have come down with Scarlet Fever. As Trisha and her family prepare for the upcoming Hanukkah celebration, they realize that the other families will not be well enough to celebrate Christmas. Trisha's family decides that they will take a special holiday dinner and decorations made from their Hanukkah presents to the other families homes to surprise them. The example of unselfish giving is one every child should be exposed to.I have read this book to my first grade class each year for the last three years. Each time I read it, there will be at least a couple of children who begin to cry. I cannot read this story without getting a lump in my throat. I recommend this book to EVERYONE!

This lovely tale of goowill and friendship between Christians and Jews is a must for every elementary media center and public library collection. Never preachy, Polacco's theme is clear to children as the touching story unfolds. You should have this one

This is my favorite new book of this holiday season. Here is a story for Christians and Jews alike...a story that celebrates the spirit of humanity. Through her rich, lively paintings, Polacco brings us a message of love, through the friendship of two young girls, who although they do not share the same religion and traditions, they in fact DO share this one particular holiday season. Warm your heart with joy as you read this story of two families and how we truly are all one.