THE LIGHTS OF HANUKKAH: A Book of Menorahs

This beautiful coffee table book displays more than 60 full-color photographs of particularly striking, beautiful or historic menorahs (including one in which eight Liberty Bells represent the independence of the Maccabees). For 2,000 years, the special eight-branched candelabrum has been a cherished and instantly recognizable symbol of Hanukkah, which marks the miracle that the Maccabees' oil lamps lasted for eight days during their struggle against the Hasmonean regime. In the book, Rush provides a helpful introduction to the observance of Hanukkah and the role of the hanukkiah, or eight-branched menorah. This is followed by an extensive gallery of photographs of menorahs, from a simple clay lamp from the 4th century A.D. to several recent examples of menorahs that appear infused with the sensibilities of modern art. This is a gorgeous gift book and informative guide to the holiday's most visible object (Oct.)