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Eric A. Kimmel

エリック・A・キンメル

Eric A. Kimmel

Profile

Gender
Male
Born
1946-01-01 （Brooklyn, New York, USA）
Nationality
United States
Languages
English
Residence History
Portland, Oregon, USA

Career

Occupations
Children's author, Professor of Education
Active Years
1973-
Affiliations
Indiana University South Bend (faculty), Portland State University (Professor of Education, Professor Emeritus)

Education

Lafayette College
English Literature
Degree: Bachelor of Arts
Period: 1963–1967
Year of Graduation: 1967
Country: United States
New York University
Degree: Master's degree
Country: United States
University of Illinois
Education
Degree: PhD (Education)
Year of Graduation: 1973
Country: United States

Awards

Caldecott Honor
1990
Work: Hershel and the Hanukkah Goblins
Organization: American Library Association / Caldecott Committee
Result: winner
National Jewish Book Award
2004
Work: Wonders and Miracles: A Passover Companion
Organization: Jewish Book Council
Result: winner
National Jewish Book Award (Illustrated Children's Book)
2008
Work: The Mysterious Guests: A Sukkot Story
Category: Illustrated Children's Book
Organization: Jewish Book Council
Result: winner
National Jewish Book Award (Illustrated Children's Book)
2011
Work: The Golem's Latkes
Category: Illustrated Children's Book
Organization: Jewish Book Council
Result: winner
National Jewish Book Award (Illustrated Children's Book)
2013
Work: Hanukkah Bear
Category: Illustrated Children's Book
Organization: Jewish Book Council
Result: winner
Regina Medal
2024
Organization: Catholic Library Association
Result: winner

Awards & Nominations

Works

Major Works

Hershel and the Hanukkah Goblins

1989 Children's literature, retelling of Jewish folk tale 32 pages

A Hanukkah tale based on Jewish folk tradition in which the brave Hershel confronts goblins to save his village. Combines humor with folkloric elements.

Jewish folklorecourageHanukkah

The Chanukkah Guest

1988 Children's literature 32 pages

A warm-hearted story about a mysterious guest who arrives on Hanukkah night, addressing themes of tradition and hospitality.

holidayhospitalitycommunity

Wonders and Miracles: A Passover Companion

2004 Children's religious/folklore

A guide for children introducing Passover traditions, stories, and prayers.

Passoverreligious educationtradition

The Mysterious Guests: A Sukkot Story

2008 Children's literature

A story set during Sukkot that, with illustrations, explores the meaning of the festival and the spirit of welcoming guests.

Sukkothospitalitytradition

The Golem's Latkes

2011 Children's literature, Jewish folklore

A humorous tale involving a golem intertwined with the traditional food latkes, presented as a picture book.

Jewish folklorefoodhumor

Hanukkah Bear

2013 Children's literature

A small adventure and friendship story centered on Hanukkah, notable for its illustrations and interplay.

Hanukkahfriendshipadventure

Simon and the Bear: A Hanukkah Tale

2014 Children's literature

A tale conveying the spirit of Hanukkah through the meeting between a boy and a bear.

Hanukkahencountermoral lesson

Bibliography

  • Over 150 children's books (notable works include Hershel and the Hanukkah Goblins, The Chanukkah Guest, etc.)

Style & Themes

Literary Style
Humorous retellings of folk talesWarm, accessible narrative voice for children
Recurring Motifs
Jewish holidays and traditionstrickster/mischief motifsfood and domestic scenes

Legacy

Eric A. Kimmel is a children's author known for introducing Jewish traditions and folklore to young readers. He has written over 150 books, received a Caldecott Honor and multiple National Jewish Book Awards, and served as an educator, now Professor Emeritus at Portland State University.

Trivia

  • Has authored more than 150 children's books.
  • Professor Emeritus of Education at Portland State University.
  • Hershel and the Hanukkah Goblins received a Caldecott Honor.
  • Multiple winner of the National Jewish Book Award.