Instead of frying latkes for Hanukkah, the mixed-heritage (Jewish and Indian) family in this story celebrates the holiday with dosas, which are similar to blintzes as well as other Indian dishes. But how will the family enjoy the holiday feast when they are accidentally locked out of the house just before dinner? Fortunately, little Sophie crawls through an open window and unlocks the front door. The family and guests are gathered, the menorah is lit, the blessings are recited, and the still-warm dosas are eaten.
Many details in the illustrations — from the Indian grandmother’s sari, to the Indian and Jewish decorations and art objects, to the beautiful endpapers depicting an array of Indian foods and spices — show a respect and appreciation for the blended cultures.
Recipes for dosas and sambar (a lentil-based dish) are also included.
Susan Kantor was a senior writer/editor for Girl Scouts of the USA, a children’s book editor, and a past judge for the National Jewish Book Awards in the illustrated children’s book category. She is a writer and a docent at the Rubin Museum in New York City, where she leads public and private tours.
