Simon and the Bear

Reach for this book when your child is facing a daunting challenge or feels overwhelmed by circumstances outside their control. It is an ideal choice for families looking to introduce Hanukkah traditions through a lens of resilience and wonder rather than just history. The story follows Simon, a young boy traveling to America, who becomes stranded on an iceberg after his ship sinks. Instead of giving up, Simon uses his Hanukkah candles to find hope, eventually befriending a polar bear who becomes his companion in survival. This is a beautiful exploration of how faith and kindness can light up even the darkest, coldest nights. It gently balances the high stakes of a shipwreck with the magical realism of a child-animal bond. Parents will appreciate how it frames 'miracles' not just as magic, but as the result of a courageous spirit and a willingness to share with others. It is perfectly pitched for children ages 4 to 8 who are ready for a bit of adventure mixed with comforting, traditional values.