Festival of Lights

By CompiledJudy Lowe

December 1, 1999

Jews around the world will begin celebrating Hanukkah the night of Dec. 3. Families that are looking for holiday-related stories and activities for youngsters during the eight-day observance will find them in new books and at several Web sites.

For ages 4 to 8, "Festival of Lights: The Story of Hanukkah," by Maida Silverman ($5.99) offers a delightful retelling of the first Hanukkah celebration. For ages 9 to 12, "The Story of Hanukkah," by Norma Simon ($5.95) explores the origins of contemporary Hanukkah customs. "Arthur Yorinks's The Flying Latke" ($16.95) is a wacky and hilarious tale for ages 4 to 8.

Holiday Web sites include Digital Dreidel (www.frontdsk.com/dreidel), Hanukkah Activities (www. perpetualpreschool.com/ hanukkah.htm), and Billy Bear's Playground (www.billybear4kids. com/holidays/hanukkah/ hanukkah.htm).