Learn about Chanukah through the adventures of a curious bear

Why do the bears in the fountain at Marin Circle in Berkeley, California wear kipot (yarmulkes) at holiday time? The charming picture book, The Chanukah Bears of Marin Circle was written by Hope Alper and colorfully illustrated by Jennifer Silverman. The story follows the adventures of Little Bear as she explores the neighborhood and finds the answer.

Hope lives not far from the fountain at the circle, and passes it often. Every year at holiday time it is decorated by the Friends of the Fountain and Walk, and Hope knew that there was a children’s story waiting to be told. The bears actually do wear kipot (yarmulkes) and the true story behind that is a local legend.

Whether you spell it Chanukah or Hanukkah, this book will delight preschoolers and early readers.