THE MOUSE WHO LOVED LATKES

When a family of Jewish cats move into a new apartment, the rodent who inhabits its walls withdraws to his mouse hole.

C.J. is terrified when the aptly named Katzes arrive. “Cats are no friends of mine!” he declares, but soon his rumbling tummy entices him to seek out the tantalizing smells in the kitchen. There, he’s rewarded with some delicious jelly doughnut crumbs. But what’s that odd-looking object covered in letters? And those gold-wrapped treats? Following a close encounter with Kitty Katz—the youngest member of the family—C.J. beats a fast retreat. Kitty seems friendly, but what if these cats want to make a meal out of him? Still, he’s intrigued, especially when he sees the Katzes playing with the items he noticed earlier—a dreidel and gelt. But could that odd object in Mr. Katz’s paws be a mousetrap?! No—just a menorah. Kitty’s gentle offer of friendship, an invitation to help make and eat delicious latkes, and an opportunity to light the menorah all help C.J. feel more comfortable with the Katzes. And, as it turns out, they can’t eat him—mice aren’t kosher! Readers unfamiliar with Hanukkah will learn about the holiday alongside C.J., while those who are familiar with it will recognize beloved customs. Wieder’s lively text captures C.J.’s hopes and fears, accompanied by expressive illustrations that use varied perspectives to good effect.

Kindness abounds in this holiday tale of unexpected friendship.