Eight Candles and a Tree

Eight Candles and a Tree is for all children and families who celebrate both Christmas and Hanukkah. Sophie introduces her blend of Hanukkah and Christmas traditions to her friend Tommy, in vibrant illustrations and fun-to-read text. Ultimately, what matters most to both children is that their holidays are celebrated in the presence of loved ones. One in three U.S. couples are in religiously mixed marriages and half of all Jews marry outside their faith, according to recent surveys. Eight Candles and a Tree is a lively and colorful picture book that fills a content void for young children.

Simone Bloom Nathan, a grandmother of eight (almost nine), was inspired to write Eight Candles and a Tree after she was unable to find a picture book about a child who celebrates both Christmas and Hanukkah to give to her granddaughter. She has extensive professional experience as a writer and children's television producer and holds a master's degree from Harvard Graduate School of Education. She hopes that Eight Candles and a Tree will validate the experiences of the many families who observe the traditions of two religious holidays.