The Story of Hanukkah
National Geographic Books 2018
Great fit for 3rd grade
Reading level and content both target K–3rd grade · ages 5–9
Bookshop.org supports independent bookstores. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Retailer links may be affiliate links.
Genre
Themes
- faith
- courage
- religious freedom
- family traditions
- perseverance
- miracles
- cultural heritage
- celebration
About this book
This picture book retells the Hanukkah story of the Maccabees and the rededication of the Temple in clear, engaging language for young readers. Vivid illustrations help children visualize the history while celebrating the spirit of the holiday. Back matter includes a simple latke recipe and dreidel directions, inviting families to continue the traditions at home. It’s a warm, accessible introduction for kids learning about Hanukkah for the first time.
Setting: ancient Judea and the Temple in Jerusalem, 2nd century BCE; modern-day Hanukkah celebrations
Readers also enjoyed
Frequently Asked Questions
Is The Story of Hanukkah right for my child?
Yes — The Story of Hanukkah is a great fit for 3rd grade. The reading level is AR 3.3, which is typical for 3rd grade. The interest level is rated Lower Grades (K–3), meaning the themes and content are designed for ages 5–9 (K–3rd grade). Themes include faith, courage, religious freedom.
How long does it take to read The Story of Hanukkah?
At a typical 3rd grade reading pace, The Story of Hanukkah takes around 7m to finish. The book has 1,000 words. Slower or faster readers may vary significantly.
Does The Story of Hanukkah have an AR quiz?
Yes — The Story of Hanukkah has an AR quiz available, worth 0.5 points. Your child will need to take and pass the quiz through their school's Accelerated Reader program to earn credit. The quiz is typically 5–20 multiple choice questions about plot, characters, and setting.
What grade level is The Story of Hanukkah?
The Story of Hanukkah has an AR reading level of 3.3, which places it at a 3rd grade reading difficulty. The interest level is rated Lower Grades (K–3) — this reflects the age-appropriateness of the content and themes, not just the reading difficulty. A strong younger reader may handle the words fine while the themes are aimed at an older audience, or vice versa.