It's the first night of Hanukkah, and Jason is frustrated and upset. Christmas is everywhere, and his family won't celebrate it even a little. His dad is firm in his beliefs about the miracle of Hanukkah. But Jason gains a new perspective when he is transported back in time and welcomed as a friend of the Maccabees. With Jason's help, the Maccabees are able to defeat the Syrians, regain Jerusalem, and witness the miracle of the lights.

"Benderly's descriptions of Judah Maccabee as a dynamic leader are very strong. An awful lot of history has to be explained very fast, and she manages that quite well, too. Jason's modern 'smarts,' and the things he takes for granted (like multiplication and that flashlight), make the story move quickly." —Kirkus Reviews

Beryl Lieff Benderly is a prize-winning health and psychology writer who has written or coauthored six books for adults, and she regularly contributes to national magazines, newspapers, and websites. She lives with her family in Washington, DC.