The thirtieth anniversary of Rugrats is this year, and Nickelodeon has been celebrating in every way possible. From Reptar flavored ice cream to the announcement of a CGI revival series, there has been no shortage of playpen promotion.
Continuing that trend, tomorrow sees the release of an illustrated storybook adaptation of one of the series most beloved holiday specials with Quirk Books set to launch A Rugrats Chanukah: The Classic Illustrated Storybook by artist Kim Smith, adding it to their list of Pop Classics.
When speaking to Forbes, Smith stated that “Representation is so important. Our culture is flooded with media that focuses on Christian-based holidays. It's impactful when a show, especially a children's show, focuses on holidays and important traditions from other cultures that make up our society. Especially through characters we already have strong connections with. I'm not Jewish, but I loved seeing those episodes and learning about the history of these traditions through the adventures of Tommy and his friends. Those episodes always stood out to me, like any great holiday special should.”
Check out the trailer for the book, which drops tomorrow, with the full synopsis included as well, and don't forget to share your thoughts in the comments section as always!
In time for the Rugrats' 30th anniversary, the beloved Chanukah Special is now a delightful picture book for readers of all ages!
On the eighth night of Chanukah, Grandma Minka reads aloud a story about the meaning of the holiday to Tommy, Chuckie, Lil, Phil, and Angelica. The babies imagine themselves as the characters in the story, but then Grandma stops reading to make latkes, and the ending is left unknown.
Soon they’re all off to the synagogue, where Grandpa Boris is acting in the Chanukah play. The children, misunderstanding the phrase “the meaning of Chanukah,” believe that an actor in the play is the “meanie of Chanukah” and storm the stage to save Grandpa. How will the Rugrats get out of trouble this time? And will they ever learn the true meaning of Chanukah?
This storybook is a perfect blend of silly, sweet, and educational and will make a cherished gift for children, nostalgic millennials, and anyone who’s ever wondered about the true meaning of the holiday.
A Rugrats Chanukah: The Classic Illustrated Storybook releases tomorrow, September 28th, from Quirk Books.