Book Review: The Seven Days of Kwanzaa
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What Parents Should Know
Parents need to know that this is a very simple introduction
to the African-American holiday of Kwanzaa. The text can be
sung to the tune from "The Twelve Days of Christmas," which
some readers may not like.
Families will enjoy learning about Kwanzaa and its traditions. They might want to talk about the fact that this African-American celebration is a relatively new one, why and how it got started, and the meaning and importance of each of its seven principles. How is it like Christmas or Hanukkah that come around the same time of year? How is it different? Families might discuss the different colors popular in each, the songs, number of days, importance of gift giving, and so on. They might talk about their own traditions, the ones parents and grandparents celebrated as well as those they talk about at school.
Common Sense Media Review
This pleasant little book will be fun for young readers, and
gives a quick introduction to the Kwanzaa traditions. Though no
instructions are given, readers will find themselves singing
the words to the tune of "The Twelve Days of Christmas" as they
turn the pages to see what each new day brings.
The text is simple as are the illustrations that show happy family members and friends enjoying the holiday. Golden tones and candlelight accent the kind smiles of various generations as they lovingly share the many gifts of their African-American heritage. Children, family, and community are celebrated, and so is each of the seven principles (Unity, Control, Cooperation, Sharing of Profits, Purpose, Creativity and Faith), which are named in the Kiswahili language on the top corner of each new page.
While older readers may prefer other more informative Kwanzaa books, they will appreciate the short summary of the various traditions that is given at the end of the book.
Common Sense Media is a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing information to help parents make media and entertainment choices for their families.
