Forget the heroism of the Maccabees and the miracle of the oil: In the Hanukkah stories of Sholem Aleichem, one of the greatest Yiddish writers of all time, you'll find Jews playing cards, condescending wealthy folks handing out latkes to the poor, and children going door to door to their relatives, hoping for Hanukkah gelt. Through five satirical tales, the beloved author unveils the challenges of Jewish society in the shtetls of Eastern Europe – some of which still resonate today.

Over 100,000 Dutch Jews were murdered by the Nazis during the Holocaust with the help of Dutch Royal institutions, antisemitic police and collaborators; Public review raises concerns for families of those who were complicit 

Berlin-born Margot Friedlander, sole family member to escape the Nazis, lights a Hanukkah menorah celebrating light's victory over darkness

Jewish wisdom views the struggle with New Year’s resolutions as a clash between instant gratification and long-term fulfillment; success requires embracing discomfort and using various strategies to foster joy in growth