About This Book
Reach for this book when your child feels like the 'only one' who doesn't celebrate the dominant holiday or when they struggle with the 'Christmas envy' that can arise in December. It is a perfect choice for kids who feel a sense of longing to fit in with their peers' traditions while trying to navigate their own family identity. The story follows Marla, a spunky fourth-grader who moves from wishing she had a Christmas tree to becoming the proactive leader of her own family's Hanukkah celebration. Amy Goldman Koss captures the authentic, often humorous voice of a child who feels left out by the 'December Dilemma.' While it explores feelings of jealousy and isolation, the tone remains light and empowering. It is ideal for independent readers aged 7 to 10 or as a family read-aloud to spark conversations about tradition, heritage, and the power of taking ownership of one's culture. Parents will appreciate the way it validates a child's desire to fit in while offering a path toward pride in their unique background.
