The Three Latkes

September 13, 2021
It’s the first night of Hanukkah in this rhythmic fable by Kimmel, and three anthropomorphic latkes—one red with a trucker cap; one yellow with a fedora, bow tie, and walking stick; and one gold with a sweatband and first place medal—are arguing over which of them tastes best. Each claims that it is the most delicious based upon the type of potato it’s made of (which gives the latkes their respective colors) and what it’s fried in: “I am fried in schmaltz—chicken fat. That’s why I taste so good,” says Yellow Latke. An impartial judge is needed, and the latkes choose “the clever cat,” who pairs each potato pancake with its suggested topping—applesauce, sour cream, and strawberry jam, respectively—and then resolves the argument by eating all three, leaving the question unanswered. Straightforward visual framings by Parker-Thomas, which feature crayon and pencil textures, keep the mood light even with the peremptory ending. Back matter features a recipe for the “Very Best Latkes.” Ages 4–8.