Horn Book (Sun Apr 01 00:00:00 CDT 2012)

In this picture book adaptation of the popular Hanukkah song, a joyful family lights the menorah, plays dreidel, and eats latkes. The acrylic illustrations are unremarkable and busy, though appropriately bright. And while the story's characters are overly cutesy, readers may enjoy following the antics of the (yarmulke-wearing) family dog. Sheet music and a note about the song's origins are included.

Kirkus Reviews

The timeless Eastern European holiday song is illustrated with deep opaque strokes and features a stereotypical white American Jewish family. Full-bodied, double-page spreads detail each activity as it is sung—lighting the menorah, having a party and dancing the hora, gathering around the table, playing dreidel and eating latkes. A shimmering, fully lit menorah complete with half-melted candles serves as the impetus for the family to reflect on the "days long ago," with one final Biblical scene set within a thought bubble above the little boy's cheerful face. Cherubic round faces with ecstatic expressions against blue/lavender and yellow backgrounds dominate the digitally finished acrylic paintings. The Ivanovs have paid attention to details, including yarmulkes for the male family members and the furry white Samoyed dog. This nice, if unexceptional visual interpretation of the brief, classic song will have little ones singing along throughout the eight-day celebration. (historical note, sheet music) (Picture book. 2-5)

School Library Journal (Sat Oct 01 00:00:00 CDT 2011)

PreS-K A traditional Hanukkah song receives a new look in this illustrated version. Each spread covers only one or two phrases (e.g., "Let's have a party"), making it easier to recite than to sing along. Colorful acrylic illustrations are kid-friendly, with smiling family members gathered round to light the menorah, dance the hora, and play dreidel, overseen by an adorable yarmulke-wearing dog. While not as creatively illustrated as Susan L. Roth's version (Dial, 2004), this pleasant book is perfect for the preschool set. Teri Markson, Los Angeles Public Library