New picture book mixes Hanukkah with dinosaurs

Naomi M. Gruer's debut picture book, HEAR ME ROAR! I'M A HANUKKAHSAUR, lands Sept. 29, 2026 from Kalaniot Books and aims to spark Jewish joy for young readers. The story follows a dinosaur-obsessed kid who celebrates Hanukkah through playful dino transformations, wordplay and family tradition.

Why it matters: - The book aims to connect Hanukkah traditions with a dinosaur-loving child's imagination. - The release adds a Jewish-themed picture book for ages 4-7 at a time when the author says Jewish joy matters. - The story centers on resilience, family and helping kids see tradition as playful and accessible.

What happened: - Naomi M. Gruer's debut picture book, HEAR ME ROAR! I'M A HANUKKAHSAUR, is published by Kalaniot Books. - The book is scheduled for release on Sept. 29, 2026. - The 40-page paperback is priced at $19.99 and carries ISBN 978-1962011198. - The book will be available everywhere books are sold.

The details: - Miles, the main character, is a dinosaur expert with a big imagination. - As Hanukkah begins, Miles turns into a different dinosaur each night. - The story includes latke flipping, dreidel spinning and menorah lighting. - Miles learns that when things go wrong, he can help make them right. - The book uses wordplay such as VeLATKEraptor in place of Velociraptor. - Illustrator Mel Zohar brings the story to life with playful, vibrant artwork. - The book is aimed at children ages 4-7. - Gruer said the book shows a dino-loving kid enthusiastically celebrating Hanukkah while embracing imagination. - Gruer said she drew inspiration from preschool students who roared like dinosaurs every day. - Gruer said she understands dinosaur energy because she has it too.

Between the lines: - The book blends holiday content with a pop-culture-friendly dinosaur hook to broaden its appeal to young children and families. - The emphasis on imagination and fixing mistakes suggests a social-emotional angle alongside the holiday celebration. - The release fits a growing appetite for children's books that represent Jewish identity in joyful, lighthearted ways.

What's next: - The book's launch opens the door to author events, interviews and review copies. - Readers can find more information and upcoming events on the author's website: the author's website. - The Children's Book Review also listed its site for more information: The Children's Book Review.

The bottom line: - HEAR ME ROAR! I'M A HANUKKAHSAUR tries to make Hanukkah feel both tradition-rich and kid-friendly by pairing it with dinosaur-powered fun.