Hanukkah at Valley Forge – Books We Love

Our son is a huge American history buff and when he saw this book at the library it was a must read. This book is such a beautiful story and is drawn from a conversation between General Washington and a Jewish Merchant in 1778.

About the Story

General Washington finds himself walking through the camp of Valley Forge one cold December evening and comes across a young Polish soldier lighting a candle at a small table and speaking softly.

General Washington is not able to hear what the soldier is saying and enter the room to talk with the soldier. The young soldier then explains the Jewish celebration of Hanukkah to the General and that he has come to America where he can freely celebrate his own beliefs.

Beautifully illustrated, the pages alternate between a conversation at Valley Forge and the past as told by young Polish Soldier. The light of the candles are drawn so carefully that the pages appear to glow.

What a wonderfully told and illustrated story – perfect for any family looking to learn more about the celebration of Hanukkah or to have a discussion ‘that there are parallels whenever people take the difficult  steps to bring about or maintain freedom”. (- a note from the PJ Library)

We found Hanukkah at Valley Forge by Stephen Krensky and Illustrated by Greg Harlin at our local library. You can also find it on Amazon or at your local bookstore.