What makes this book Jewish?
The story is rooted in Jewish history and tradition, bringing the Hanukkah miracle to life through a child-friendly narrative. It’s designed to strengthen Jewish identity and connect kids with the values of courage, determination, and heritage.
We designed this book to feel welcoming for families across the spectrum of Jewish observance.
In the modern scenes, the boy wears a baseball cap as his head covering. Some kids wear a cap over a kippah, some don’t, and some just really love their baseball hats. We left that choice open so your family can interpret it in the way that fits you best.
In the Temple scenes, neither the boy nor Judah wear head coverings because, historically, Jewish men did not consistently cover their hair during the Maccabean era. That practice became widespread much later, during the Rabbinic period (roughly the 2nd to 6th centuries).
Also please note that the moon on the cover is C-crescent. Hanukkah falls on the 25th of Kislev, towards the end of the moon cycle, and as such would be in the waning phase of the moon.
Is this book suitable for interfaith families?
Absolutely. The story is welcoming, accessible, and focused on the universal themes of hope, bravery, and light.
How historically accurate is the story?
The book is based on the traditional Hanukkah narrative and inspired by historical sources. The illustrations and setting reflect what scholars understand about the period, presented in a way that’s engaging and age-appropriate.
Please note the fun fact we discovered while writing this book. The small jug of holy oil would have almost certainly been a stone jar rather than pottery. This is because stone was considered to be impervious to impurity, and holy oil for the menorah had to be ritually pure.
What ages is the book best for?
The story and illustrations are ideal for ages 3–8, and everyone can enjoy the ‘easter egg’ hunt looking for the dreidel on different pages!
Will you have more titles?
Yes. Doorway Books is building a series of customizable Jewish books. New titles are already in development.
Why is the company called Doorway Books?
The name comes from the Hebrew word dor (דור), meaning “generation.” Each book is a doorway connecting children to their heritage, traditions, and Jewish identity. Read our “About Us” for more.
Where is the book printed?
In the US, the book is printed by Gelato.
In Israel, the book is printed by Tirosh.
Is the book hardcover or softcover?
If you are ordering through Gelato (i.e. US shipping address) The Light That Lasted is an 11×11 hardcover book with premium paper and a durable binding.
If you are ordering to an Israeli address, then your book will be a softcover book 22×22 cm book.
What size is the book?
For US customers the book is a large-format 11×11 inch hardcover, perfect for bedtime stories and gift-giving. For Israeli customers, the book is 22 x 22 cm (8.66×8.66 in).
How long will printing and shipping take?
If you are shipping the book to a US address (or other countries), your book is printed by Gelato, their shipping estimates are a total of 6 business days (including order processing, production and shipping) for economy shipping and 4-5 business days for express shipping. They note that delivery can take anywhere between 3-7 business days depending on destination location and holiday season volume. You will receive a tracking notification when it is on its way.
For shipping orders to Israel, we are printing in batches and the books will be delivered through HFD. They will send you text communication to notify you of delivery. Printing and delivery can run between 4-8 business days.
Do you ship internationally?
At the moment, we are prioritizing delivery in the United States and Israel. It is possible to order for international destinations through the US storefront (dependent on Gelato services), but shipping costs are not included and delivery times will take longer.
How long does it take to personalize my book?
Personalization takes less than two minutes. Choose your avatar, enter the child’s name, and you’re done.
Can I customize the book for more than one child?
Each book can be personalized for one child.
In future titles we will include the possibility for multiple avatars in a single story.
Which parts of the book can I personalize?
You can customize:
– The main character’s avatar
– The child’s name
Can I preview the book before ordering?
You can preview the entire book in our “David and the Light That Lasted” version. Once you design your version of the book, you will be able to preview select spreads. You can start your order here.
What if I make a mistake in the personalization?
Double-check your spelling before placing your order. Once printing begins, changes aren’t possible. If you notice an issue immediately after ordering, contact us right away and we’ll do our best to help.
What if the name appears incorrectly or the right avatar isn’t displayed correctly in the preview file?
In the event that the preview does not display the correct name or avatar, refresh the browser and start the 3 step process again. If the problem persists, please contact us at contact@doorwaybooks.shop.
Can I cancel or change my order?
Because each book is printed on demand, cancellations or changes must be made quickly. Reach out to support as soon as possible, and we’ll assist if the book hasn’t entered production.
What is your return policy?
Customized books can’t be returned once printed. If your book arrives damaged or with a printing error, we will replace it at no cost.
If you are requesting a refund, please contact us here.
How do I contact customer support?
You can reach us anytime at contact@doorwaybooks.shop. We respond quickly and are here to help with personalization, orders, or anything else.