Reviews: Like a Maccabee

Elementary school students will gain the true meaning of Hanukkah when they read aloud the chapter book Like a Maccabee (by Barbara Bietz, Yaldah Publishing, 2006). Days before Hanukkah, ten-year-old Ben prepares for his championship soccer game while being pursued by the school bully and adjusting to a new roommate: his grandfather. Eventually Ben learns from his grandfather to be brave like Judah Maccabee and stand up to the bully.
Discussion: Ask the students to share experiences when they stood up for their beliefs against opposition.

Ratner Media & Technology Center
Jewish Education Center of Cleveland

Like a Maccabee is a refreshingly proud Jewish story. Barbara Bietz has given the miracles of Hanukkah new meaning for today’s ‘goal’-oriented children. She has bridged the generation gap in a warm true-sounding story of a boy, his grandfather and the special way they share a holiday. Highly recommended.

Mindy Aber Barad
author of Jewish Humor Stories for Kids
Judaica Librarians’ Choice Award Nominee

“Recommended! Like A Maccabee brings the spirit of Hanukkah into a contemporary story that every elementary student will relate to. Barbara Bietz creates memorable, likable characters that will be easy for parents and teachers — as well as their children — to recognize.”

Gabrielle Kaplan-Mayer
author of The Magic Tanach and Other Short Plays

“Barbara Bietz has crafted a story that will resonate with all ages and make their hearts smile! Her multi-generational characters are refreshing and recognizable. Their voices make you laugh, pique your curiosity and feel compassion for others. Ben and Grandpa hit home runs when they develop the strength and courage to meet the challenges of change, a bully, and disappointment in their lives. This book is a ‘love’ gift for Hanukkah and for sharing a ‘championship’ life with those you love.”

Sheila N. Glazov
author of Princess Shayna’s Invisible Visible Gift

This book was a very good read. I would highly recommend it to children and adults. The writer captures a wonderful relationship between grandchild and grandfather.An extremely enjoyable book.

R.H.
Los Angeles, CA

This book had a good message, but what sets it apart from other young adult books trying to influence young minds with positive life experiences, was that it truly was a very good read. I'm not a kid anymore and I loved it. It's hard to believe that this politically correct story of a soccer playing boy who has his grandfather move into his bedroom could actually be a true page turner. This is the best book I have read this year.

Lionel Leiter
Palm Desert, CA

This writer is a terrific storyteller who spins a tale that works on a variety of levels. Like the best type of "G" rated movie, this work will appeal to children, teens and adults--and will prove to be a book they will return to again and again--not only during Hanukah, but all year long.

M.R.
Irvine, CA

This book has it all - well thought out characters and a well thought out story with an endearing message. I got this book for my neice, and I enjoyed it as well as she. I plan to get several more copies for holiday gifts. You will not be dissappointed!

Kaye