Celebrating Day of the Dead

April 1, 2016

K-Gr 3-Books with cover photos of groundhogs, whoopee cushions, skulls, and jack-o'-lanterns will grab most young readers' attention. These histories of some common holidays are well written and attractive enough to hold their attention. Each spread is composed of two to three sentences about each holiday's origins, history, and celebratory practices, accompanied by a full-page photo or illustration. Treatment of the holidays varies slightly, with Cinco de Mayo and Juneteenth more focused on history and culture and Groundhog Day and April Fools more interested in amusing celebrations. Photos and illustrations are bright and eye-catching. This set will help primary students understand the origins and celebrations of holidays. VERDICT Purchase for reading aloud and beginning readers.

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