As a mother, teacher and Shlucha in Doylestown, PA, Dassie Prus always looked for a good book that tells the story of Chanukah.
“The children absolutely love this holiday, and I wanted to combine the fun aspects of it along with the history and meaning behind it,” she explains.
But, after searching through Judaica stores, Prus says she could not find one that fit all her criteria, so she wrote one herself.
Written and self-published by Prus, “If the Candles Could Speak” is an oversized, jumbo book, with a story board and stickers.
At almost 2 ft. tall, the hardcover book captures the attention and imagination of children, bringing the complete story of Chanukah to life.
The Menorah’s colored candles take you on a journey back in time and share this miraculous story, and the story concludes with a timeless lesson and universal message to share with those around you.
In the book, readers will discover how we celebrate the joyous holiday of Chanukah, hear how to light the menorah, and the reasons behind the beloved customs of playing dreidel, eating potato latkes, and giving Chanukah gelt and presents.
The bright, realistic illustrations will fascinate young hearts and minds to the very last page. The illustrations appeal to all ages – whether a toddler, a seven year old child or a class of 4th graders, notes Prus.
The story board and 40 re-usable stickers add to the Chanukah fun with a hands-on experience. It provides children with an educational activity as they create and recreate Chanukah’s beloved traditions. For teachers, it aids in the teaching of visual literacy and provides for a more intriguing, and interactive story-time experience.
“‘If the Candles Could Speak’ is truly unique a Chanukah gift, and a remarkable classroom tool,” says Prus.
Shluchos review “If the Candles Could Speak”
“I was so excited to find out that a giant Chanukah book was published, after so far using it in preschool, a story hour and at Hebrew school I can not thank you enough for creating this incredible resource! Children of all ages are glued to the book and really anticipate learning about Chanukah!
The sticker board is an incredible bonus and has really contributed to teaching the story in a very fun and exciting way. As one of my colleagues put it, ‘after borrowing your giant Chanukah book to teach my Chanukah lesson, my kids loved it! Now it’s hard to go back to normal books after that. :)’ The children were glued to the book and really love its bright and brilliant illustrations. I highly recommend your book! It is a Chanukah must have!”
– Devora, California
“A treasure! I read If the Candles Could Speak to my second and fourth grade classes and all I can say is WOW! The effect was astounding- the kids were captivated by the illustrations and sat spellbound the entire time as the story literally came alive before their eyes. The text tells the story in a clear and concise manner, while the rich and detailed illustrations provide the perfect backdrop to stop and elaborate on details in the story. I have been teaching the Chanukah story for close to 10 years, and this was the best year yet!”
– Chaya, Pennsylvania
Books can be purchased at www.ChanukaBigBook.com, and
www.shluchimservices.com.
Also available at Judaica World, Hamafitz, and Eichler’s in Flatbush
To Win a Free Book: See contest on our Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/
Go dassie you did it i love it
it is a great book.go dassie!!!
go dassie!you did a great job!!devonya
Looks fantastic! Can’t wait to see it in the Judaica shop down here in Melbourne.
i love the illastrations, they bring the story to life!
I saw the book in real life. Its magnificent! ! Perfect for storytime amd hebrew school
This looks like a great gift for chanuka. looks realy nice!
How much is it just for the book?
there is a big lack in big Jewish books for little kids
I was so happy to see another chanuka book is being printed
keep it up!
My kids will love this- thanks for letting us know about it!
Never seen anything like this before- your kids will not stop reading this! It’s unbelievable to see how glues they get to it!
I’ve seen the book and it a great tool.
The illustrations are beautiful.
one of its kind!
Dassie you did an awesome job!
Nice