"Celebrations in my World" Series:
Day of the Dead; Chinese New Year by Carrie Gleason,
Cinco de Mayo; Diwali by Kate Torpie,
Hanukkah; Kwanza; Ramadan; Constitution Day; Christmas by Molly Aloian
Crabtree Publishing, 2009.

Rating: G*

Aimed at primary children, these nine titles explore the history and traditions of a variety of celebrations around the world. Large print provides easy to read text which is accompanied by vibrant captioned illustrations on 2 page spreads. Each book explores the origins of the celebration, its history, traditions, symbols, food, music, and activities which are associated with the holiday. “Did you Know” information is provided on each 2-page spread. A Table of Contents, Glossary and Index are also included.

This series will be a welcome addition to primary classes which are taking a beginning look at different cultures and their celebrations. The large print and colourful illustrations make the books accessible to very young readers on an individual basis or in large group situations.

Thematic Links: Celebrations; Holidays; Diverse Cultures

Victoria Pennell
Vol.14, number 3
February 2009

*Rating System:
E - Excellent, enduring, everyone should see it!
G - Good, even great at times, generally useful!
A - Average, all right, has its applications.
P - Problematic, puzzling, poorly presented.