The Ninth Night of Hanukkah

An evergreen picture book with a fresh twist on a Hanukkah celebration: celebrating a ninth night to honor helpers!

The light of Ninth Night shines brighter every year. Barnes and Noble selected it as one of three featured children’s titles for its annual holiday promotion, NPR recently rebroadcast their 2020 All Things Considered interview, NBC news did an interview, and Erica read the book at the Library of Congress holiday celebration.

Click here for Ninth Night on NPR’s All Things Considered!

Click here to read my Ninth Night Op Ed in the L.A Times (and the Seattle Times)!

It's Hanukkah, and Max and Rachel are excited to light the menorah in their family's new apartment. But, unfortunately, their Hanukkah box is missing. Luckily, their neighbors are happy to help, offering thoughtful and often humorous stand-in items each night. And then, just as Hanukkah is about to end, Max and Rachel, have a brilliant idea for how to say thanks to everyone who's helped them.

Buy this book

Enjoy this fabulous downloadable Event Kit!

And, if you are holding (or attending) an event, these downloads might come in handy:

Event Poster

Pennant Flags

Social Media Invitation (rectangle)

Social Media Invitation (square)

Thank You Card Template

Invitation Cards Templates


NINTH NIGHT OF HANUKKAH.jpg
This is the perfect book for Hanukkah, and will be enjoyed for many years to come.
— San Diego Jewish World
Oh, what a wonderful book! Erica Perl’s miraculous pen has crafted a story of kindness, creativity, cooperation, and community, complete with latkes, jelly donuts, chocolate gelt—and pizza! What more could a reader want? I am sure this book will inspire many many families to celebrate the new tradition of “Shamash Night” for many years to come.
— Lesléa Newman, Sydney Taylor Body of Work Award winner, National Jewish Book Award winner
Thank you to Erica Perl for giving us a special night to say thank you to those who help make our lives brighter. This clever and charming book honors children’s creativity and resourcefulness. What a miracle it would be if we all showed our appreciation for the diverse lives of the community that surrounds and uplifts us. Like the Shammes candle, may we reach out and share our light. From now on my family will be celebrating the Ninth Night!
— Richard Michelson, Two time Sydney Taylor Gold Medal winner, National Jewish Book Award winner