There's No Such Thing as a Chanukah Bush, Sandy Goldstein

This book contains a universal theme that left me saying, "That's me." I was the odd one out. We've all been there at some point, and this book is outstanding. I also feel like it's a great way for kids outside of the Jewish faith to get that small perspective of what it is like for a Jewish child at Christmastime. It's one of those books that I remember fondly and remember well, even though I haven't read it in twenty years.

As a Christian who's best friend was Jewish in elementary school (and to this very day) the two of us found this story to be such an entertainment that we joke about it to this very day, some nearly twenty years later. It helped to bridge a gap in understanding about what Hanukkah means to the faithful, and even now I fondly remember feeling so special being the one Christian invited to light the candles and "tell the story of God and His glory and how precious freedom was won." Even now, I tell people I was raised by a Jewish mother too, with much pride, and look forward to the festival of lights year after year.

Dear editors, I am writing re: my review of 1-25-99. There is a one-word error in the fifth line that changes the meaning entirely. It should read, ".....insight for NON Jewish adults...", not "insight for now Jewish adults." Would you kindly change this wording. As it reads now, it is misleading for your potential future customers, and embarrasing for me. (p.s. I actually AM Heather's mother. Susan Sussman wrote the book using our two daughters as the models for her characters Robin and Heather.)

I first read this book in 1983. It was my feeling then, and remains my belief now, that Ms. Sussman accurately captured the spirit of the religious experience of each of the girls. I believe the story is validating and meaningful for youngsters of both traditions, as it was intended. It also contains valuable insight for now-Jewish adults who may have minimal understanding of the Jewish experience. Each Christmas, THERE'S NO SUCH THING AS A CHANUKAH BUSH, SANDY GOLDSTEIN is displayed in my library along with the Christmas books. I found it to be a validation of both the Jewish and Christian traditions. If I were to make a suggestion, it would be to further explore the feelings of the Christian child whose best friend is Jewish. Christian children are not necessarily oblivious to the conflict presented to Jewish children each December.

A warm and touching story addressing the difficult topic of Jewish children coping with the Christmas-dominated holiday season.