Holidays and Festivals
Fiestas and Festivals
Carnaval
By: George Ancona
Age Level: 6-9
Reading Level: Independent Reader
Share the five days of Carnaval revelry — beginning with the lengthy preparations in Olinda, a northeastern Brazilian city. The book features stunning photographs and crisp text, handsomely formatted.
By: George Ancona
Age Level: 6-9
Reading Level: Independent Reader
Share the five days of Carnaval revelry — beginning with the lengthy preparations in Olinda, a northeastern Brazilian city. The book features stunning photographs and crisp text, handsomely formatted.
Fiesta Dress: A Quinceañera Tale
By: Faith McNulty
Illustrated by: Martha Aviles
Age Level: 6-9
Reading Level: Independent Reader
On the day of her big sister Eva's quinceañera, everyone is too busy to notice Lolo. The upbeat acrylics and liquid watercolor capture the excitement and gaiety of the family gathering and this special occasion.
By: Faith McNulty
Illustrated by: Martha Aviles
Age Level: 6-9
Reading Level: Independent Reader
On the day of her big sister Eva's quinceañera, everyone is too busy to notice Lolo. The upbeat acrylics and liquid watercolor capture the excitement and gaiety of the family gathering and this special occasion.
Fiestas/Celebration Songs
By: José-Luis Orozco
Age Level: 3-6
Reading Level: Beginning Reader
A rich collection of magical songs that celebrate holidays and festivals that occur throughout the year, representing the diversity of Latin American cultures. Catchy rhythms and lyrics are selected to make learning easy.
By: José-Luis Orozco
Age Level: 3-6
Reading Level: Beginning Reader
A rich collection of magical songs that celebrate holidays and festivals that occur throughout the year, representing the diversity of Latin American cultures. Catchy rhythms and lyrics are selected to make learning easy.
The Rainbow Tulip
By: Pat Mora
Illustrated by: Elizabeth Sayles
Age Level: 6-9
Reading Level: Independent Reader
Stella and her brothers speak Spanish at home but English at school. Being different is both scary and exciting. Stella learns this when she prepares for the school's celebration of May Day. She finds a way to honor her Mexican background by wearing a special skirt that is both alike yet different from the other girls'. Stella, like many children, can take pride in being part of two cultures. (In English sprinkled with Spanish).
By: Pat Mora
Illustrated by: Elizabeth Sayles
Age Level: 6-9
Reading Level: Independent Reader
Stella and her brothers speak Spanish at home but English at school. Being different is both scary and exciting. Stella learns this when she prepares for the school's celebration of May Day. She finds a way to honor her Mexican background by wearing a special skirt that is both alike yet different from the other girls'. Stella, like many children, can take pride in being part of two cultures. (In English sprinkled with Spanish).
Up and Down the Andes: A Peruvian Festival Tale
By: Laurie Krebs
Illustrated by: Aurelia Fronty
Age Level: 3-6
Reading Level: Beginning Reader
"The mountain landscape is at the center of this picture book about the Peruvian Inti Raymi Festival as children travel from all over southern Peru, by bus, train, boat, mule, and truck, to the city of Cusco to celebrate with feasting and fun in their traditional costumes. The simple rhyming text and the bright, clear, beautiful unframed acrylic paintings express a strong sense of the rich traditions that are still part of contemporary life, from the clothes and food at the party to the images of the Sun God." — Booklist
By: Laurie Krebs
Illustrated by: Aurelia Fronty
Age Level: 3-6
Reading Level: Beginning Reader
"The mountain landscape is at the center of this picture book about the Peruvian Inti Raymi Festival as children travel from all over southern Peru, by bus, train, boat, mule, and truck, to the city of Cusco to celebrate with feasting and fun in their traditional costumes. The simple rhyming text and the bright, clear, beautiful unframed acrylic paintings express a strong sense of the rich traditions that are still part of contemporary life, from the clothes and food at the party to the images of the Sun God." — Booklist
Chinese New Year
Bringing in the New Year
By: Grace Lin
Age Level: 3-6
Reading Level: Beginning Reader
Grace Lin brings the Chinese New Year traditions to life through the eyes of a young girl and her family as they prepare for their family New Year celebration. Vivid color and bold line illustrate their planning which concludes with a dragon and noise making for a joyful celebration of this special Chinese festival.
By: Grace Lin
Age Level: 3-6
Reading Level: Beginning Reader
Grace Lin brings the Chinese New Year traditions to life through the eyes of a young girl and her family as they prepare for their family New Year celebration. Vivid color and bold line illustrate their planning which concludes with a dragon and noise making for a joyful celebration of this special Chinese festival.
Celebrate Chinese New Year
By: Carolyn Otto
Age Level: 6-9
Reading Level: Independent Reader
This outstanding introduction to the Chinese New Year from National Geographic is filled with stunning photos from China and beyond, as well as informative descriptions of different New Year traditions and activities. Whether they are reading about Shanghai, Brazil, or San Francisco, readers will enjoy learning how the festivities are celebrated around the world!
By: Carolyn Otto
Age Level: 6-9
Reading Level: Independent Reader
This outstanding introduction to the Chinese New Year from National Geographic is filled with stunning photos from China and beyond, as well as informative descriptions of different New Year traditions and activities. Whether they are reading about Shanghai, Brazil, or San Francisco, readers will enjoy learning how the festivities are celebrated around the world!
Earth Day
Keepers of the Earth: Native American Stories and Environmental Activities for Children
By: Michael J. Caduto & Joseph Bruchac
Age Level: 6-9
Reading Level: Independent Reader
The flagship book in the Keepers of the Earth series, this environmental classic teaches children respect and stewardship for the Earth and all living things. Joseph Bruchac's lyrical retellings set the stage for Michael Caduto's abundance of related activities. Beginning with Native American stories, this invaluable and time-honored resource provides readers with an abundance of hands-on activities that will inspire children to understand and appreciate Native American cultures and the Earth. Connects to social studies, science, environmental studies, and other content areas.
By: Michael J. Caduto & Joseph Bruchac
Age Level: 6-9
Reading Level: Independent Reader
The flagship book in the Keepers of the Earth series, this environmental classic teaches children respect and stewardship for the Earth and all living things. Joseph Bruchac's lyrical retellings set the stage for Michael Caduto's abundance of related activities. Beginning with Native American stories, this invaluable and time-honored resource provides readers with an abundance of hands-on activities that will inspire children to understand and appreciate Native American cultures and the Earth. Connects to social studies, science, environmental studies, and other content areas.
Summer Birds: The Butterflies of Maria Merian
By: Margarita Engle
Illustrated by: Julie Paschkis
Age Level: 3-6
Reading Level: Beginning Reader
Butterflies were once thought to be "beasts of the devil." Maria Merian, a perceptive young German naturalist, knew better. She recorded her notes and drawings on the butterflies' transformation in secret so that she would not be accused of witchcraft and later became a famous scientist and artist who helped the rest of the world understand natural life cycles. Margarita Engle brings her extraordinary story to life, accompanied by Julie Paschkis' gorgeous illustrations.
By: Margarita Engle
Illustrated by: Julie Paschkis
Age Level: 3-6
Reading Level: Beginning Reader
Butterflies were once thought to be "beasts of the devil." Maria Merian, a perceptive young German naturalist, knew better. She recorded her notes and drawings on the butterflies' transformation in secret so that she would not be accused of witchcraft and later became a famous scientist and artist who helped the rest of the world understand natural life cycles. Margarita Engle brings her extraordinary story to life, accompanied by Julie Paschkis' gorgeous illustrations.
Ramadan and Eid
A Party in Ramadan
By: Asma Mobin-Uddin
Illustrated by: Laura Jacobsen
Age Level: 6-9
Reading Level: Beginning Reader
As Ramadan approaches, Leena is ready to fast with her family. Then she receives an invitation for a classmate's party on the same day of a special family meal to break the fast. Leena's decisions about fasting and the support she receives from her family and friends make this a wonderful story for talking about Ramadan. Lovely pastel illustrations complement the heartfelt story.
By: Asma Mobin-Uddin
Illustrated by: Laura Jacobsen
Age Level: 6-9
Reading Level: Beginning Reader
As Ramadan approaches, Leena is ready to fast with her family. Then she receives an invitation for a classmate's party on the same day of a special family meal to break the fast. Leena's decisions about fasting and the support she receives from her family and friends make this a wonderful story for talking about Ramadan. Lovely pastel illustrations complement the heartfelt story.
Nabeel's New Pants: An Eid Tale
By: Fawzia Gilani-Williams
Illustrated by: Proiti Roy
Age Level: 3-6
Reading Level: Beginning Reader
As Nabeel prepares to celebrate Eid, he buys gifts for his family and a pair of new pants for himself. The pants, however, are four fingers too long and no one has time to shorten them…or so Nabeel thinks! A colorful, humorous version of a folk story familiar in many cultures which will serve as an entertaining read-aloud for young children.
By: Fawzia Gilani-Williams
Illustrated by: Proiti Roy
Age Level: 3-6
Reading Level: Beginning Reader
As Nabeel prepares to celebrate Eid, he buys gifts for his family and a pair of new pants for himself. The pants, however, are four fingers too long and no one has time to shorten them…or so Nabeel thinks! A colorful, humorous version of a folk story familiar in many cultures which will serve as an entertaining read-aloud for young children.
Under the Ramadan Moon
By: Sylvia Whitman
Illustrated by: Garth Williams
Age Level: 6-9
Reading Level: Beginning Reader
During Ramadan, this loving family prays and fasts together. They also stop bad habits, give to the poor, hang bright lights, and visit friends — all under the Ramadan moon! Lush pastel illustrations fill the pages with soft moonlight, the warmth of friends and family, and beautiful designs at the Mosque. Children will enjoy repeating the lyrical refrain that appears throughout the story. Author's note included.
By: Sylvia Whitman
Illustrated by: Garth Williams
Age Level: 6-9
Reading Level: Beginning Reader
During Ramadan, this loving family prays and fasts together. They also stop bad habits, give to the poor, hang bright lights, and visit friends — all under the Ramadan moon! Lush pastel illustrations fill the pages with soft moonlight, the warmth of friends and family, and beautiful designs at the Mosque. Children will enjoy repeating the lyrical refrain that appears throughout the story. Author's note included.
Celebrating the Day of the Day
Celebrate Halloween and the Day of the Dead With Cristina and Her Blue Bunny
By: F. Isabel Campoy & Alma Flor Ada
Age Level: 3-6
Reading Level: Pre-Reader
As Cristina's friends get ready to go trick-or-treating, Cristina explains her family's traditions of the Day of the Dead. Alma Flor Ada and Isabel Campoy blend the traditions of the Day of the Dead and Halloween together in a story that young readers are sure to enjoy.
By: F. Isabel Campoy & Alma Flor Ada
Age Level: 3-6
Reading Level: Pre-Reader
As Cristina's friends get ready to go trick-or-treating, Cristina explains her family's traditions of the Day of the Dead. Alma Flor Ada and Isabel Campoy blend the traditions of the Day of the Dead and Halloween together in a story that young readers are sure to enjoy.
The Day of the Dead
By: Bob Barner
Age Level: 6-9
Reading Level: Beginning Reader
Bright illustrations convey the festive traditions of the Latin American celebration known as the Day of the Dead accompanied by a straightforward Spanish/English text. An endnote about the holiday as well as the inspiration for the art are included.
By: Bob Barner
Age Level: 6-9
Reading Level: Beginning Reader
Bright illustrations convey the festive traditions of the Latin American celebration known as the Day of the Dead accompanied by a straightforward Spanish/English text. An endnote about the holiday as well as the inspiration for the art are included.
Thanksgiving
Celebrate Thanksgiving Day with Beto and Gaby
By: Alma Flor Ada & F. Isabel Campoy
Illustrated by: Claudia Rueda
Age Level: 6-9
Reading Level: Independent Reader
When a snowstorm prevents most of Gaby and Beto's relatives from getting to the Thanksgiving feast, their grandmother comes with a group of people who make the celebration truly something special.
By: Alma Flor Ada & F. Isabel Campoy
Illustrated by: Claudia Rueda
Age Level: 6-9
Reading Level: Independent Reader
When a snowstorm prevents most of Gaby and Beto's relatives from getting to the Thanksgiving feast, their grandmother comes with a group of people who make the celebration truly something special.
How Many Days to America?: A Thanksgiving Story
By: Eve Bunting
Illustrated by: Beth Peck
Age Level: 6-9
Reading Level: Independent Reader
After the soldiers come, Papa tells his family that they must leave everything behind and set sail for America. The journey across the Caribbean is dangerous and long, and our narrator and his little sister keep asking — just how many days is it to America? Prolific children's author Eve Bunting, herself an immigrant from Ireland, shares the story of a new generation of pilgrims who are willing to risk their lives to look for freedom in America.
By: Eve Bunting
Illustrated by: Beth Peck
Age Level: 6-9
Reading Level: Independent Reader
After the soldiers come, Papa tells his family that they must leave everything behind and set sail for America. The journey across the Caribbean is dangerous and long, and our narrator and his little sister keep asking — just how many days is it to America? Prolific children's author Eve Bunting, herself an immigrant from Ireland, shares the story of a new generation of pilgrims who are willing to risk their lives to look for freedom in America.
December Holidays
An Ellis Island Christmas
By: Maxinne Rhea Leighton
Illustrated by: Dennis Nolan
Age Level: 9-12
Reading Level: Independent Reader
When Krysia is six, her family leaves Poland for America. The journey is difficult, as is the arrival at Ellis Island when the family is separated. While the family waits for Papa, Krysia sits down by the Christmas Tree of the Great Hall at Ellis Island and watches as other fellow travelers begin to sing and dance. The mood is festive, but Krysia begins to worry — will Papa ever return? Cultural details from Polish customs passed down through the author's family enhance the touching story of one family's Ellis Island experience.
By: Maxinne Rhea Leighton
Illustrated by: Dennis Nolan
Age Level: 9-12
Reading Level: Independent Reader
When Krysia is six, her family leaves Poland for America. The journey is difficult, as is the arrival at Ellis Island when the family is separated. While the family waits for Papa, Krysia sits down by the Christmas Tree of the Great Hall at Ellis Island and watches as other fellow travelers begin to sing and dance. The mood is festive, but Krysia begins to worry — will Papa ever return? Cultural details from Polish customs passed down through the author's family enhance the touching story of one family's Ellis Island experience.
Federico and the Magi's Gift: A Latin American Christmas Story
By: Beatriz Vidal
Age Level: 3-6
Reading Level: Beginning Reader
It's the Feast of the Three Kings, and that means the Three Wise Men, or Magi, will ride through the night sky to deliver gifts to children. Four-year-old Federico has misbehaved, and now he is afraid the Magi won't leave him any presents. As his brother and sister prepare hay and water for the Magi's camels, Federico wonders if the Magi will really come. This gorgeously illustrated storybook by Beatriz Vidal glows with warmth and holiday cheer, and readers everywhere will surely find themselves scanning the night skies for the Magi.
By: Beatriz Vidal
Age Level: 3-6
Reading Level: Beginning Reader
It's the Feast of the Three Kings, and that means the Three Wise Men, or Magi, will ride through the night sky to deliver gifts to children. Four-year-old Federico has misbehaved, and now he is afraid the Magi won't leave him any presents. As his brother and sister prepare hay and water for the Magi's camels, Federico wonders if the Magi will really come. This gorgeously illustrated storybook by Beatriz Vidal glows with warmth and holiday cheer, and readers everywhere will surely find themselves scanning the night skies for the Magi.
Going Home
By: Eve Bunting '
Illustrated by: David Diaz
Age Level: 6-9
Reading Level: Independent Reader
Mama and Papa are excited to take a break from working in the fields and go home, but Carlos and his sisters are not sure how they feel about traveling to Mexico. Soon after arriving, however, they meet their loving extended family, and the children begin to understand what it meant for their parents to leave home in order to offer the family a better future. David Diaz's stunning illustrations layered on top of photos of Mexican folk art bring Eve Bunting's beautiful story to life.
By: Eve Bunting '
Illustrated by: David Diaz
Age Level: 6-9
Reading Level: Independent Reader
Mama and Papa are excited to take a break from working in the fields and go home, but Carlos and his sisters are not sure how they feel about traveling to Mexico. Soon after arriving, however, they meet their loving extended family, and the children begin to understand what it meant for their parents to leave home in order to offer the family a better future. David Diaz's stunning illustrations layered on top of photos of Mexican folk art bring Eve Bunting's beautiful story to life.
Hanukkah: A Counting Book in English, Hebrew, and Yiddish
By: Emily Sper
Age Level: 0-3
Reading Level: Pre-Reader
The Festival of Lights, or Hanukkah, celebrates the rededication of the Jewish temple after a group of ancient heroes defended their right to worship as they wished. This handsome little counting book honors the most joyful of Jewish holidays, and teaches readers how to count from one to eight in English, Hebrew, and Yiddish.
By: Emily Sper
Age Level: 0-3
Reading Level: Pre-Reader
The Festival of Lights, or Hanukkah, celebrates the rededication of the Jewish temple after a group of ancient heroes defended their right to worship as they wished. This handsome little counting book honors the most joyful of Jewish holidays, and teaches readers how to count from one to eight in English, Hebrew, and Yiddish.
How The Grinch Stole Christmas
By: Dr. Seuss
Age Level: 3-6
Reading Level: Beginning Reader
The classic tale of the Grinch is now more than 50 years old. But that's just why it's a classic: Seuss' grumpy stealer of Christmas is as fresh today as it was when first published in the mid 20th century.
By: Dr. Seuss
Age Level: 3-6
Reading Level: Beginning Reader
The classic tale of the Grinch is now more than 50 years old. But that's just why it's a classic: Seuss' grumpy stealer of Christmas is as fresh today as it was when first published in the mid 20th century.
The Gifts of Kwanzaa
By: Synthia James
Age Level: 3-6
Reading Level: Beginning Reader
"Habari gani? What news?" Synthia Saint James presents the language and origins of Kwanzaa with enticing writing and bold pictures that honor the people and colors of Africa.
By: Synthia James
Age Level: 3-6
Reading Level: Beginning Reader
"Habari gani? What news?" Synthia Saint James presents the language and origins of Kwanzaa with enticing writing and bold pictures that honor the people and colors of Africa.
The Legend of the Poinsettia
By: Tomie dePaola
Age Level: 3-6
Reading Level: Beginning Reader
In this retelling of a beloved Mexican folktale, Tomie dePaola presents Lucinda, a young girl who is helping her mother weave a new blanket for Baby Jesus to be used in the Christmas procession to the church. When her mother falls ill, however, Lucinda tries to continue weaving and is distraught when the blanket's threads get tangled. She is sure that she has ruined the celebration — until a Christmas miracle brings forth the flaming red-star flowers that we still enjoy each December. Beautiful artwork will enthrall readers.
By: Tomie dePaola
Age Level: 3-6
Reading Level: Beginning Reader
In this retelling of a beloved Mexican folktale, Tomie dePaola presents Lucinda, a young girl who is helping her mother weave a new blanket for Baby Jesus to be used in the Christmas procession to the church. When her mother falls ill, however, Lucinda tries to continue weaving and is distraught when the blanket's threads get tangled. She is sure that she has ruined the celebration — until a Christmas miracle brings forth the flaming red-star flowers that we still enjoy each December. Beautiful artwork will enthrall readers.
The Polar Express
By: Chris Van Allsburg
Age Level: 6-9
Reading Level: Independent Reader
A magical train ride on Christmas Eve takes a boy to the North Pole to receive a special gift from Santa Claus. This holiday classic earned a Caldecott Medal.
By: Chris Van Allsburg
Age Level: 6-9
Reading Level: Independent Reader
A magical train ride on Christmas Eve takes a boy to the North Pole to receive a special gift from Santa Claus. This holiday classic earned a Caldecott Medal.
The Tomten
By: Astrid Lindgren
Illustrated by: Harald Wiberg
Age Level: 3-6
Reading Level: Beginning Reader
From Swedish folklore comes the story of the tomten, a little gnome who watches over us while we sleep. Read this heartwarming version, from the author of Pippi Longstocking, and celebrate a time-honored tradition for the Winter Solstice.
By: Astrid Lindgren
Illustrated by: Harald Wiberg
Age Level: 3-6
Reading Level: Beginning Reader
From Swedish folklore comes the story of the tomten, a little gnome who watches over us while we sleep. Read this heartwarming version, from the author of Pippi Longstocking, and celebrate a time-honored tradition for the Winter Solstice.
Tree of Cranes
By: Allen Say
Age Level: 6-9
Reading Level: Independent Reader
The narrator recalls his first Christmas in Japan and why his mother decorated a tree with a thousand paper cranes as she relives her holidays in California. Based on a family story, Say's illustrations evoke a holiday in two cultures.
By: Allen Say
Age Level: 6-9
Reading Level: Independent Reader
The narrator recalls his first Christmas in Japan and why his mother decorated a tree with a thousand paper cranes as she relives her holidays in California. Based on a family story, Say's illustrations evoke a holiday in two cultures.
When Christmas Feels Like Home
By: Gretchen Griffith
Illustrated by: Carolina Farias
Age Level: 6-9
Reading Level: Independent Reader
After moving from a small village in Mexico to a town in the United States, Eduardo is sure it will never feel quite like home. The other children don't speak his language and they do not play futbol. His family promises him that he will feel right at home by the time Christmas comes along, when "your words float like clouds from your mouth" and "trees will ride on cars." With whimsical imagery and a sprinkling of Spanish vocabulary, Gretchen Griffith takes readers on a multicultural journey with Eduardo who discovers the United States is not so different from Latin America and home is wherever family is.
By: Gretchen Griffith
Illustrated by: Carolina Farias
Age Level: 6-9
Reading Level: Independent Reader
After moving from a small village in Mexico to a town in the United States, Eduardo is sure it will never feel quite like home. The other children don't speak his language and they do not play futbol. His family promises him that he will feel right at home by the time Christmas comes along, when "your words float like clouds from your mouth" and "trees will ride on cars." With whimsical imagery and a sprinkling of Spanish vocabulary, Gretchen Griffith takes readers on a multicultural journey with Eduardo who discovers the United States is not so different from Latin America and home is wherever family is.