The Christmas Menorahs - by Janice Cohn

About the Book

This beloved and inspiring children's book, now updated and expanded for a new generation, recounts the true story of how an American town took a stand against hate and antisemitism during the holiday season of 1993.

Book Synopsis

This beloved and inspiring children's book, now updated and expanded for a new generation, recounts the true story of how an American town took a stand against hate and antisemitism during the holiday season of 1993.

When a rock is thrown through a young Jewish child's bedroom window in Billings, Montana, the entire community unites, working together to take action. Their response, inspired by the rescue of the Danish Jews 50 years earlier, shows how love and courage can conquer hate.

This expanded 30^th anniversary edition includes additional material on the events in Billings, including interviews and a discussion guide, and invites us all to be upstanders in the face of injustice. At a time of division and incivility in our country, with the alarming rise of antisemitism and other forms of bigotry, true stories like The Christmas Menorahs are needed more than ever to show children and adults alike what our "better angels" can achieve.

A must-buy gift for the holiday season.

Review Quotes

Reviews of the Original 1995 Edition

"A true story set in Billings, Montana, of a Jewish family's house that was vandalized during Hanukkah because of a menorah in their window. Because of understanding people who believed everyone should celebrate their holidays without fear, a town of all faiths united against these acts of hate. A must-have book for all ages-child and adult. Powerful."

"A powerful narrative about how two children, their families, and a community resolve to stand together against bigotry and hatred."

"Thank you Janice Cohn for all your work to record this inspiring event which occurred in Billings, Montana in 1993...this touching, unforgettable book will inspire generations to come to speak out against hatred. If I had a magic wand, I would wish this book into every household."

"[An] inspiring true story."

"[An] important story about religious freedom."

"Based on a true incident that occurred in Billings, Montana, this story begins when a rock is thrown through a boy's bedroom window in which a menorah is displayed... A fine book for parents and teachers who want to discuss prejudice and hate crimes with their children. With background information provided in the introduction."

"In Billings, Montana, a menorah displayed in a boy's bedroom prompted someone to throw a rock through the window. The resulting true story of one town's fight against bigotry is the subject of this award-winning book. Cohn's powerful narrative tells how two children, two families-one Jewish, one Christian-and a community resolve to stand together against the shameful actions that have been happening in their home town. Her story is based on real events that happened in Billings, Montana, in 1993."

"Although this says juvenile literature, I think this is a book that everyone should read or have read to them.