PAPA'S LATKES

Selma and Dora are facing their first Chanukah without Mama, who died during the summer, and Papa's hopelessness as a latke-maker only underscores how much they miss her. But the family finds solace in the memory of Mama and her enduring commitment to creating a loving Jewish home. Edwards (Chicken Man ) tackles a difficult subject without crossing the line from heartfelt to maudlin, while Schuett's (America Is... ) tender acrylic portraits of a modest urban household in a pre-television era deepen the story's genuineness and emotional impact. Ages 5-7. (Oct.)