Yenta Claus


Children - Picture Book
32 Pages
Reviewed on 05/24/2025
Buy on Amazon

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    Book Review

Reviewed by Jamie Michele for Readers' Favorite

Yenta Claus by David Ross is a lively little children’s book that blends Christmas and Hanukkah traditions through the voice of Yenta Claus, a Jewish grandmother-like version of Santa. Narrated in a stream of lively Yiddish-infused banter, Yenta Claus prepares for the holidays with characteristic fussing, overfeeding, and multitasking. She offers latkes and cookies for the trip, reminds others about holiday lists, and mixes traditional Christmas activities with Jewish customs like decking halls with challah and eating lo mein. Amid the chaos, she forgets gifts for the elves and improvises by turning their stockings into ear warmers. Festive wishes for both Christmas and Hanukkah are shared with all, blending the two celebrations and wrapping up on a note of satisfied exhaustion. The book also contains a glossary of the Yiddish terms used in the story.

Yenta Claus, written by David Ross and illustrated by Maria Postea, is a joyful, deliciously irreverent twist on holiday traditions that delights from start to finish. The writing is sharp, warm, and laugh-out-loud funny, loaded with personality and a pitch-perfect voice that feels like your favorite relative holding court at the dinner table. What truly elevates the book, though, is its heart and the affection behind every line. Postea’s illustrations are gorgeous, using a muted palette of primary colors beautifully softened with a watercolor touch that balances the humor with a gentle charm. Every page hums with visual warmth, adding depth and texture without overwhelming the lively tone. It’s rare to find a holiday book that feels this fresh and fun while still carrying a deep sense of seasonal cheer. L’chaim indeed!