6 Picture Books About Sukkot | Jewish Holidays

The Jewish holiday of Sukkot, also known as the Feast of Booths, celebrates the autumn harvest and the bounty that nature provides. Share these picture books with young children for the festival and any time throughout the year.

The Jewish holiday of Sukkot, also known as the Feast of Booths, celebrates the autumn harvest and the bounty that nature provides. Children of all backgrounds are charmed by the small structures that crop up in neighborhoods in honor of the holiday! Share these six picture books with young children for the festival and any time throughout the year.

Is It Sukkot Yet? by Chris Barash. illus. by Alessandra Psacharopulo. Albert Whitman. ISBN 9780807533888. 
PreS-K-Charming, warm illustrations depict a contemporary, rosy-cheeked family, along with their friends and neighbors (and their adorable furry and feathered friends), in an idyllic rural setting, getting ready for the Jewish harvest holiday. VERDICT Without any background information, this title is clearly intended for those who celebrate Sukkot, and they will certainly welcome this lovely, poetic addition that's perfect for sharing aloud.

 The Moving-Box Sukkah by Leah Berkowitz. illus. by Sharon Vargo. Apples & Honey. ISBN 9781681156279. 
PreS-Gr 2–A boy and his mom have just moved from a house to a city apartment. As they unpack, the child worries about finding his blanket and how they will celebrate Sukkot without a backyard. VERDICT This lovely marriage of a story of moving and Sukkot will be a welcome addition to the shelf in any library serving Jewish patrons or looking to expand their holiday collections.

Shanghai Sukkah by Heidi Smith Hyde. illus. by Jing Jing Tsong. Kar-Ben. ISBN 9781467734745. 
K-Gr 2–Marcus tries to make the best of his new home after his family flees Berlin for Shanghai to escape the Nazis. As the Sukkot holiday nears, Marcus wonders where and how his family can build their sukkah. A Chinese boy, Liang, tells Marcus about the upcoming Moon Festival, which is happening the next day. The boys celebrate both holidays together. VERDICT This heartwarming tale examines an often overlooked, vibrant Jewish community while focusing on the joys and discovery of friendship.

 

[Read: Celebrate Jewish Joy with Fresh Baked Treats | Picture Book Spotlight]

 

Sadie’s Sukkah Breakfast by Jamie S. Korngold. illus. by Julie Fortenberry. Kar-Ben. ISBN 9780761356479. 
PreS-Gr 1–Excited for Sukkot, siblings Sadie and Ori wake up early and bring breakfast out to their sukkah. After some (very minor) mishaps, breakfast is ready, and a few stuffed-animal friends help share the special meal. The book will be most appreciated by those already familiar with the festival. VERDICT A solid purchase for Judaica collections and an additional purchase elsewhere.

 The Very Best Sukkah: A Story from Uganda by Shoshana Nambi. illus. by Moran Yogev. Kalaniot. ISBN 9781735087580. 
PreS-Gr 2–This Sukkot story offers a unique view into a little-known community as they celebrate the Jewish harvest festival. The first-person text effectively explains the holiday and offers a window into this unique community, while simultaneously providing an engaging story that includes a gentle, nondidactic message. VERDICT This unique title would be a welcome addition to any collection looking to broaden their offerings of sukkot books.

A Watermelon in the Sukkah by Shannan Rouss. illus. by Ann Iosa. Kar-Ben. ISBN 9780761381181.
PreS-Gr 1– Michael's class is commemorating the holiday by building a traditional sukkah (booth) and decorating it with fresh fruit. Michael's giant contribution is too heavy to hang with string, tape, or rubber bands. VERDICT With cheerful cartoon illustrations and a glimpse of Sukkot practice in action, this story is a fine addition to Jewish collections.

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