Module 3 Book Reviews: Poetry

The Stone Lamp - Eight Stories of Hanukkah Through History by Karen Hesse

1. Bibliography
Hesse, Karen. 2003. THE STONE LAMP - EIGHT STORIES OF HANUKKAH THROUGH HISTORY. Ill. by Brian Pinkney. New York, NY: Hyperion Books for Children. ISBN 0786806192.

2. Plot Summary
Eight major events in Jewish history are detailed and a free verse poem corresponding to each relates the emotions, reactions, and resoluteness of a personally involved child character.

3. Critical Analysis
Multiple viewpoints serve to connect the tribulations of Jews from around the world- to emphasize that these destructions were not isolated events, but world events. Contrasts between the stark accounts of historical events and the softer, more melancholy deliverance of the characters' everyday accounts, fashion reading material with considerable depth.

The stone Hanukkah lamp lighted by each family signifies the tenacity of the Jewish people, and the passing down of the lamp through the ages is symbolic of the determination of a people. The poem Third Night, Third Light reveals these thoughts, "The stone lamp is not our most beautiful. But it is our oldest and dearest..." The lamp's story of survival trumps its appearance, and keeps Jewish history alive in the heart of a young girl - declaring the Jewish people irrepressible.

Although the tone of the book is heavy and the history is grim, the illustrations counter these disheartening stories with bright, clear paintings. Each illustration is warmed by either the light from the lamp itself or an allusion to the lamplight seen in the yellow skullcaps of the characters, carrying through the book the hope of a better life. Eighth Night, Eighth Light says of the stone lamp, "It is homely beside the menorahs of my friends. But I am proud to join my hand with the many who lighted it." This poem helps close the book with a reiteration of stoic pride and belief that an exceptional future awaits, sentiments warranted by centuries of a people prevailing over persecution.

4. Review Excerpts
THE WASHINGTON POST: "The children's voices ring immediate and true."
SCHOOL LIBRARY JOURNAL: "the personal perspective of each young narrator adds special resonance to the meaning of Hanukkah."
CHILDREN'S LITERATURE (Judy Chernak): " It's a gripping combination, compelling in its personalization of each sad chapter in Jewish history."

5. Connections
History, tragedy and triumph, becomes overwhelmingly personal and relevant to readers as these books delve into the individual's struggles against the world.
Auerbacher, Inge. I AM A STAR: CHILD OF THE HOLOCAUST. ISBN 0140364013.
Patz, Nancy. WHO WAS THE WOMAN WHO WORE THE HAT? ISBN 0525469990.