Hanukkah

I'm so glad that we have heroes to celebrate, especially during Hanukkah, the darkest time of the year. It is a holiday that celebrates the light within us that gives us the courage to face darkness. The Maccabbees entered the Temple and discovered only one cruse of oil. Only seven days then would be a miracle because the first day had adequate oil. The eight days incorporate the miracle of the first day, which signifies the miracle of human courage to begin to buld within imperfect human situations.

Who is your Jewish-American Hero?

I've just finished writing a book for young people about Jewish American heroes. I can't imagine a better time for such a book. Heroes are in short supply and Jews can use all that they can claim. Children need help in learning the difference between heroism and fame, and between celebrity and greatness.

For 350 years Jews have enjoyed remarkable opportunity in shaping American culture. This country, founded on religious freedom, has offered us social and political freedom as well. American Jews have enriched music, entertainment, art, politics, science, sports, education, and business. Many of them have been passionate about social justice.
Of the twenty I chose to profile, most were not religious but lived lives that reflected the Jewish value of making an unfair world fairer. I looked for individuals who had the courage to speak the truth when it was unwelcome and those who risked ridicule by doing something new to make the world better. They set examples of excellence and they worked not only for themselves but also for others.
Read More about Jewish-American Heroes.

Purchase the book at your local, independent bookstore or:
Amazon.com
Barnes and Noble
Abunga.com
Target

Test your knowledge of Jewish-American Heroes by selecting this game link on my website and then come back to let me know "Who is your favorite Jewish-American Hero" in the comment section. I'll be posting the comments and responding as I can. - Malka Drucker