Menorah Under the Sea

October 19, 2009
This picture book follows marine ecologist David Ginsburg to the McMurdo research station in Antarctica to study sea urchins during Hanukkah. Since there is no night in the Antarctic summer, Ginsburg wonders, “How can you light a menorah when the sun is still shining?” Circling underwater, he hits upon an idea, gently placing sea urchins and sea stars in the shape of a menorah on the sea floor. The vibrant color photography and surprising thematic juxtaposition—readers will learn as much about urchins as about the holiday—makes this a memorable selection, even for readers who don't celebrate Hanukkah. Ages 5–9.

September 1, 2009
Gr 2-5-Heller chronicles the experiences of David Ginsburg, a marine biologist who spent five months at McMurdo Station in Antarctica studying underwater wildlife. He was there during Hanukkah, and was inspired to celebrate the holiday by lining up sea urchins and sea stars on the ocean floor in the shape of the traditional Hanukkah candleholder and photographing his impromptu temporary menorah. The photos don't always seem to show what the text describes, and many are of mere snapshot quality, but this is forgivable considering the limited selection of shots that must have been available showing this unique event. The text is pedestrian but serviceable. Basic familiarity with Hanukkah is assumed. Useful endnotes provide additional information on sea urchins, McMurdo, Ginsburg, and the author. This unusual combination of Antarctic exploration and Judaism's best-known holiday is sure to intrigue readers. Perhaps it will even inspire them to create their own found-object art."Heidi Estrin, Feldman Children's Library at Congregation B'nai Israel, Boca Raton, FL"

Copyright 2009 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

January 1, 2010
Marine biologist David Ginsburg, posted to the Antarctic during Hanukkah, strategically arranges sea urchins and sea stars in the darkness of the ocean to create a menorah. The text, which primarily describes Ginsburg's work, is engaging; an afterword provides more information about sea urchins and the McMurdo Station. Excellent undersea photographs enhance the presentation.

(Copyright 2010 by The Horn Book, Incorporated, Boston. All rights reserved.)