Celebrating Hanukkah can be rough. I know, I know. You’re probably wondering how 8 days of presents could possibly be a hardship. Well, maybe that part isn’t bad, but as Jews we walk around stores inundated with Christmas decorations hoping for just a little glimmer of some Hanukkah cheer too.

A few weeks ago, I walked into Barnes & Noble and was browsing in the children’s section (shocker, I know). Despite being one of my favorite stores, it was depressing to see all the classic Christmas stories displayed throughout the room with only one side of a book carousel devoted to Hanukkah stories.

It’s true, there aren’t many famous Hanukkah stories. But, if you’re looking for a classic this season and the bookstore isn’t giving you the options you need, look no further! I know the best Hanukkah story, one that blows all others out of the water – Hershel and the Hanukkah Goblins. My mom used to read this to me when I was little, and to this day, I still believe that it is by far the best Hanukkah story around. So, here are five reasons why Hershel and the Hanukkah Goblins is the only book you need this Hanukkah season!

1. Goblins – What could be better than mixing Hanukkah and goblins? These fantasy creatures add spice to any story and are sure to draw in both kids and adults (the evidence being that I still love this story).

2. The Illustrations – While a little darker than your typical children’s story, the drawings in this book are amazing. Kids are drawn into an entirely different world and able to visualize the story’s crazy creatures and their actions.

3. Hershel – The main character is a really clever guy! Apparently based on a real person, he may not be your typical hero, but he fills the shoes quite nicely.

4. The Tools of Trickery – Hershel uses everything from a menorah to hardboiled eggs to a game of dreidel to a jar of pickles to outwit the goblins in this story. This strange arsenal is not only funny but effective, allowing Hershel to save Hanukkah for the villagers.

5. The Moral – The story is entertaining and readers will certainly be drawn into the alternate reality. But, even better, this tale has an amazing message: nothing should stop you from celebrating those things that are important to you. While a Jewish story, this great lesson makes Hershel and the Hanukkah Goblins great for everyone!

-Sarah