In the famously foolish town of Chelm, confidence is never in short supply — even when everyone is celebrating the wrong holiday.
Hamantaschen for Hanukkah?!: A Tale of the Wise People of Chelm, (Tiny Torch Books/November 3, 2026) is a charming new children’s book by Maurice J. Elias and illustrated by Hector Borlasca, that invites young readers into a hilarious holiday mix-up where the adults of Chelm mistake Hanukkah for Purim and proudly prepare for the wrong celebration altogether.
When a letter arrives from the chief rabbi wishing the town a happy Purim, the grown-ups never stop to question why the message has arrived during Hanukkah. Soon, the townspeople are baking hamantaschen, sewing costumes, and enthusiastically planning Purim festivities — despite the menorahs already glowing in their windows.
Only siblings Shmendrick and Mushka recognize the mistake. As the adults argue with absolute certainty, the children quietly choose to honor the holiday they know is correct while still embracing the joy, laughter, and togetherness surrounding them.
Rooted in the beloved Jewish folklore tradition of Chelm, the legendary village where adults are famously foolish and children often know best, Hamantaschen for Hanukkah?! offers young readers a warm and funny story about tradition, critical thinking, and trusting their own understanding.
“This story celebrates the humor and heart that have made Chelm tales beloved for generations,” Maurice says. “At its core, it reminds children that wisdom sometimes comes from paying close attention, asking questions, and quietly trusting what they know to be true.”
Perfect for both Hanukkah and Purim reading tables, the book introduces children to Jewish traditions and language through naturally woven Hebrew and Yiddish terms, supported by a helpful glossary for young readers and families.
Hamantaschen for Hanukkah?! is a joyful celebration of Jewish storytelling traditions, family, laughter, and the gentle wisdom children sometimes carry better than the adults around them.
Maurice J. Elias is a Professor of Psychology at Rutgers University and contributing faculty in Jewish Studies. His work centers on promoting joy, resilience, and emotional intelligence in children and families. He is co-author of Emotionally Intelligent Parenting, Talking Treasure, and The Joys & Oys of Parenting, and has written more than a dozen books for parents and educators. He and his wife live in Highland Park, New Jersey, close to their two daughters and three grandchildren.
Hector Borlasca is the illustrator of more than fifty children’s books, including Yiddish Saves the Day by Debbie Levy, The Porridge Pot Goblin by Jaqueline Jules, and Silly Time Stories by Robert Keith. He lives in Buenos Aires, Argentina, with his wife and daughter.
Tiny Torch Books is devoted to crafting beautiful books that excite, engage, and inspire kids. They publish stories that ignite ideas and curiosity, and that lay the foundation for a lifetime love of reading. For more information visit: www.TinyTorchBooks.com
The Collective Book Studio is a woman-owned, independent publisher dedicated to creating high-quality, beautifully crafted books that celebrate diverse voices and empower storytelling. Our unique publishing model creates a true partnership between author and publisher, meaning our authors can spend time doing what they love while we take care of everything else.
The Collective Book Studio is an independent press based in Oakland, CA.. Their books are distributed by Simon & Schuster, a global leader in general interest publishing, dedicated to providing the best in fiction and nonfiction for readers of all ages. For more information, visit www.simonandschuster.com
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