What better way to celebrate than getting your loved ones 8 Nights of Books?!

We’ve hand picked a selection of books that highlight Jewish History, Jewish Mysticism, and Jewish Folklore with some of the most beautiful storytelling techniques. Each of the items on this list celebrates the rich culture and history of the Jewish Religion as well as the personal journeys of their creators. In an effort to be inclusive to different communication methods, we’ve made sure that there are books for all ages, including some graphic novels and even picture books! You’ll find some spooky, some mysterious, and some fantasy content here. These are listed in no particular order, but one of our teammates in particular highly recommends “Hershel and the Hanukkah Goblins” as a top starting point into these titles.

1. Hershel and the Hanukkah Goblins by Eric A. Kimmel, Illustrated by Trina Schart Hyman

2. The Tribe by Bari Wood

3. Spinning Silver by Naomi Novik

4. The Angel of Losses by Stephanie Feldman

5. Blood & Mud by John Baltisberger

6. The Shadow Man by John Katzenbach

7. Underworld Dreams by Daniel Braum

8. Gershon’s Monster: A Story for the Jewish New Year

9. Golem by David Wisniewski

10. The Golem of Prague by Irène Cohen-Janca Illustrated by Maurizio A.C. Quarello and Translated by Brigitte Waisberg 

11. The Entertainer and the Dybbuk by Sid Fleischman

12. Ghosts and Golems: Haunting Tales of the Supernatural by Michele Palmer 

13. Lilith’s Cave: Jewish Tales of the Supernatural by Uri Shulevitz and Howard Schwartz
    
    

    Got a favourite of your own? Let us know in the comments!

    We would love to expand our knowledge and recommendations.

    Curious about some of the topics and spirits mentioned in these books and films?
    Here’s some helpful definitions to get you started.
    

    What is a Dybbuk?

    In Jewish belief, the dybbuk is a malevolent wandering spirit who posesses the living to carry out unfinished business; the only way to remove the spirit is to help it along its course of action or by means of exorcism removal. For more detailed background on the Dybbuk, check out this post here.

    What is a Golem?

    A Golem is a being created from clay or mud which is given life and a soul by the people through prayer and ritual. The golem has great meaning to Jewish folklore and stories, which you can learn more about here.

    Want to read further about Jewish beliefs in Demons, Dybbuks, Ghosts and Golems?
    Check out this helpful site!
    

Looking to explore even more about Golems, Dybbuks, and other Jewish lore and spirits? Interested in genre fare highlighting Jewish filmmakers and talents or perhaps Hebrew language films? Keep scrolling down!

We’ve also rounded up some picks for recommended movie watching. Make a big old plate of donuts, pour a glass of wine, and settle in for a movie night with your loved ones and celebrate Jewish Filmmakers and more!

The Golem (2018)
Now Streaming Free on Vudu or via Netflix subscription.

The Possession (2012)
Now Streaming via Amazon Prime.

“Juda” (Series)
Now Streaming on Hulu.

Rabies (2010)
Available with AMC+ Subscription or to Rent via Vudu.

JeruZalem (2015)
Now Streaming on Tubi, Vudu, and Amazon Prime.

The Unborn (2009)
Now available to rent on Amazon Prime

By Ellen Avigliano

Twitter: @imaginariumcs
Website: www.imaginariumarts.com