Let’s Get Festive!: Celebrations Around the World

Gr 3-7–A book that takes audiences on a journey around the world to celebrate thematic holidays derived from various religions, seasonal transitions, myths, traditions, and legends, as well as some born from folklore and fear. “One of the original reasons for joyfully celebrating the eve of the new year was fear that the world would end,” Kończak explains. The book covers 36 celebrations grouped by theme: welcoming the new year, celebrations of nature, religious holidays, carnivals, for the dead, in memory of people and important events, and special occasions. Readers learn about traditions including Harvest Festival, Saint Jordan’s Day, Dragon Boat Festival, and more. Descriptions of celebrations held around the world are paralleled by Poklewska-Kozietto’s clarifying take on multicultural societies, with emphasis on colorful attire, health, foods, and motifs being part of the inherent qualities of coming together as a community and celebrating. The book contains an introduction but no list of sources or other back matter. While it is rewarding in providing background information for developing fundamental knowledge on the subject matter, pair this title with other reliable sources for further exploration of nonfiction themes.