The main character Hershel embodies so many qualities – whit, determination, bravery, faith, and freedom. The Main Character is a Strong Role Model If your family is Jewish you probably already know this Yiddish tale of the Hershel the trickster. In our family we read this story to better understand Hanukkah to understand this holiday that is important to our Jewish friends. It’s nice when you know the true source of the tale. You may see this tale as the foundation of a film, or another story. One of the key reasons to read classics, in my opinion, is because these stories will show up again in other ways. They are award-winners that stay in publication. We read it because it is a Hanukkah tale.Ĭlassic stories are those that have withstood the test of time. We read this story because it is a classic. It will give you a glimpse of Trina’s personality and take you on a journey behind the scenes of how a picture book comes together. Give yourself a treat and read “Trina Schart Hyman: Remembering the Iconic Illustrator of “Hershel and the Hanukkah Goblins” on the Jewish Book Council website. I highly, highly, HIGHLY recommend acquiring each and every book she ever illustrated.Įric Kimmel, the author of Hershel and the Hanukkah Goblins, wrote a heart-warming tribute to Trina in 2020. How lucky we all are that there was a Trina Schart Hyman in this world. Whichever it is, Trina Schart Hyman was one of the amazing gifts to the world of children’s literature.

Perhaps you already know of her work perhaps this is the first time you are seeing her illustrations.

Here are a few of the things I love about this book and why I turn to it to celebrate the holiday season each year. Those who celebrate Hanukkah will recognize this classic tale of Hershel, the Jewish folk hero, who uses his ingenuity to rescue a town from goblins.įor those of you who have a different faith … this book is still one you’ll want to read and enjoy with your children.

Herschel and the hanukkah goblin