Get Free Shipping on orders over $0
Hamantaschen for Hanukkah?! : A Tale of the Wise People of Chelm - Maurice J. Elias

Hamantaschen for Hanukkah?!

A Tale of the Wise People of Chelm

By: Maurice J. Elias, Hector Borlasca (Illustrator)

Hardcover | 3 November 2026

At a Glance

Hardcover


RRP $37.99

$36.75

or 4 interest-free payments of $9.19 with

 or 

Available: 3rd November 2026

Preorder. Will ship when available.

A playful Chelm folktale filled with humor and old-world charm, Hamantaschen for Hanukkah?! follows two wise siblings through a Jewish holiday mix-up that becomes a celebration of tradition, laughter, and knowing when to trust your own understanding.

"Spun with affection and a broad, genial cartoon style, the result is a classic kids-know-best tale with wisdom to spare." —Publishers Weekly

"Hamantaschen for Hanukkah?! is a joy! Readers of all ages will enjoy the beautiful illustrations of this new folktale, told in the spirit of the Chelm classics." —Dr. Jeffrey Kress, Provost and Bernard Heller Professor of Jewish Education, Jewish Theological Seminary

Oy vey. Is it Hanukkah or Purim?

In the famously foolish town of Chelm, the adults believe themselves to be very wise. So when a letter arrives from the Chief Rabbi wishing everyone a happy Purim—even though it is clearly Hanukkah—the town begins preparing for the wrong holiday. Soon everyone is baking hamantaschen, sewing costumes, and celebrating with great confidence.

Only siblings Shmendrick and Mushka notice the mistake. As the adults carry on with the town’s delightful confusion, the children quietly trust what they know to be true, honoring Hanukkah while still finding joy in the mix-up.

Here’s what makes Hamantaschen for Hanukkah?! a joyful Jewish picture book:

• A Fresh Chelm Folktale: Inspired by the legendary Wise People of Chelm, this funny story celebrates the warmth, silliness, and old-world charm of classic Jewish folklore.

• Two Holidays in One Story: A playful mix-up between Hanukkah and Purim makes this a natural read for both holiday seasons.

• Child-Centered Wisdom: Shmendrick and Mushka model curiosity, confidence, and gentle discernment as they notice what the adults miss.

• Perfect for Jewish Families and Classrooms: Hebrew and Yiddish terms, a helpful glossary, and full-color illustrations make this a funny read-aloud for homes, schools, synagogues, libraries, and holiday storytimes.

Rooted in Jewish humor, holiday tradition, and the wisdom of children, Hamantaschen for Hanukkah?! is a funny picture book about Chelm, Hanukkah, Purim, and learning when to trust your own understanding.

More in Traditional Stories for Children

Cosy Cute Christmas Magic Colouring Book : Colouring Book - Farshore
The Rupert Annual 2027 - Rupert Bear

RRP $29.99

$24.99

17%
OFF
Bravepaw and the Songstone of the Deep : Bravepaw 4 - L.M. Wilkinson
Jaws of Night : Dragon Snare #2 - Rhiannon Williams

RRP $17.99

$15.75

12%
OFF
It's a Fire Station Celebration! - Davina Bell

RRP $24.99

$21.75

13%
OFF
The Little Prince : With the original colour illustrations - Antoine de Saint-Exupéry
The Sleeping Beauty - Sound Book : The Story Orchestra : Book 2 - Jessica Courtney Tickle
Legacy : Keeper of the Lost Cities: Book 8 - Shannon Messenger
The Little Prince - Antoine De Saint-Exupery

RRP $17.99

$16.75