This is a hip-hop take on the traditional Hanukkah story. The illustrations are bold and colorful and seem to have escaped from a cartoon version of Hercules. Statues of Greek gods smile and pose in body-builder positions, illustrating the graven images and Hellenistic culture that Jews were supposed to eschew. The evil Antiochus, all carved, sharp cheekbones and pointed fingers, personifies Syrian rule over the Jews, while the small group of followers of Mattathias stand grouped in clear protest against the command to bow down. Notice the detail of the children's terrified faces as they hide behind their parents' legs while Antiochus gives his orders. This could be read as straight verse, but the language and rhythm calls for a group of older children or teens to rap out the words, especially the final refrain, "Sometimes it takes only a few, Who knows what's right and do it, too." Add some beat box effects, and this will make a great religious school presentation. The book suffers only from an extra ending in which Judah the Hammer is invited to a contemporary family's Hanukkah party. The two-page addition brings nothing to the story and will have kids puzzling over this Judah, who in addition to being a sort of superhero for ancient times, is also a time traveler. Despite this flaw, this will be a fun book to share with kids and definitely offers a new take on Hanukkah. Reviewer: Lois Rubin Gross

The Hanukkah story of how Judah and the Maccabees fought the dictator King Antiochus for the religious freedom of the Jews and the restoration of Jerusalem is retold in this animated rhyme punctuated by a repeated refrain: "Sometimes it only takes a few, / Who know what's right, and do it, too." Balsley's rhythmic narration includes basic characterization and dialogue for the key players to make the story come alive. Bold opaque paintings of brave, bearded men with flowing hair, dressed in robes and sandals and bearing spears and shields against the army of the Syrians provide a cinematic view of this legend of heroism and determination. This telling offers possibilities as a readers'-theater choice for school holiday performances and will stand as a solid introduction for young audiences just learning of the observance. (note) (Picture book/religion. 5-8)