Winter Candle

PreS-Gr 2—A "lumpy stick of wax" lights the way in this story of diverse celebrations held at an apartment house on Juniper Court. While it is neither tall, twisted, or the right color, the unassuming candle manages to save the day for Nana's Thanksgiving meal, the Danzigers's Sabbath two weeks later, one family's St. Lucia observance, and another's Kwanzaa, before finally guiding a new tenant home during a raging snowstorm. The friendly neighbors help one another without hesitation and come together at the end for a combined celebration lit by the same gnarled but brightly shining candle. An author's end note briefly explains the different ceremonies and celebrations and the role candlelight plays in them. Full-color illustrations highlight the candle and the cheery glow it throws infuse the scenes with warmth. Facial expressions, from dismay to delight, enhance the story. Certainly appropriate at holiday time, this book also emphasizes the everyday concepts of community, kindness, and sharing, making it a worthwhile, year-round read.—Sara-Jo Lupo Sites, George F. Johnson Memorial Library, Endicott, NY