Illustrated by Constanza Basaluzzo

3 stars

A nice introduction to the celebration of Kwanzaa. Told in four short chapters, this picture book goes through some of the basics of preparing and celebrating. This includes decorating a unity cup, enacting the seven principles, and setting up the candles and lighting them over seven days. It also includes a bit of information about the start of Kwanzaa and why it is celebrated.

One thing I especially appreciated was that the book didn’t shy away from slavery. Though its description is brief, it does touch on Africans being forced to America and their continued mistreatment. Yet the book’s focus remains on the pride, unity, and joy of celebrating together.

The seven principles are written out and the fictional family enacts a few of them on the corresponding day such as working together to clean Kevin’s room on the third day, which focuses on collective work and responsibility.

The backmatter includes a tutorial for making a Kwanzaa drum, a glossary of terms, and some additional recommended resources.

Good information presented in a story-like format to better engage young readers. Colorful and joyful illustrations that make for a fun learning experience.

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