"I didn't remember everything about the Hanukkah story,
but I was pretty sure Judah Maccabee didn't play soccer."

Days before Hanukkah, ten-year-old Ben's soccer team makes the league championships. Only one thing stands between Ben and victory: the rival team's best defender, a school bully whose favorite sport, other than soccer, is tormenting Ben.

No one at home seems to understand. And now he has to share his bedroom—and his family's attention—with his grandfather, who has recently come to live with them.

Facing humiliation at school and misunderstood by those who love him most, Ben finds an unexpected friend in his grandfather, learning ancient wisdom and steadfast strength, enough for the big game... and beyond.

Read the first chapter in Adobe Acrobat Reader.
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Barbara Bietz was born and raised in Southern California. She received both a Bachelor’s degree and a Master’s degree in education from the University of Arizona. Her work for adults and children has appeared in numerous magazines, including a monthly column for FamiliesOnlineMagazine.com and children’s book reviews for Jewish Book World.  She lives in Oak Park, California with her husband, two children, and three dogs.

 

Awards

Merit Award Winner
2006 Midwest Book Awards

 

 

Reviews

“Using the backdrop of the Hanukkah holiday, the author realistically captures the challenges of peer pressure and positive ways to overcome adversity against a bully. An important addition to the meager amount of Jewish-themed early chapter books, this heartwarming novel marks a promising debut for this first-time author. Kids will enjoy this book at Hanukkah time or throughout the year.”
**Starred** Review, Jewish Book World

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“The melding of plot and theme, Jewish history and contemporary life, Jewish values and character development is done very skillfully, with a light touch and a sure feel for childhood emotions and relationships. Ben’s family’s celebration of Hanukkah is portrayed with joy. Consider this a first purchase among the remarkably good crop of sports stories published in 2006.”

Linda R. Silver
Newsletter of the Association of Jewish Libraries

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“Highly recommended.”
Midwest Book Review

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“...a winner.”
Hadassah Magazine

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"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

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“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

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“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

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