Synopsis
Beautiful, dynamic photographs and brief, lively text introduce readers to the joyous holiday of Diwali, evoking the celebrations of Hindus, Sikhs and Jains around the world.
In Deborah Heiligman's inviting global odyssey of the Hindu holiday we learn that Diwali celebrates the triumph of good over evil, and of light over darkness. Although celebrated differently in different places, Diwali is universally viewed as a time of great joy, celebrated with fireworks, sweets, and gifts.
Celebrate Diwali brings to life the holiday's traditions, food, and celebration rituals. The informative back matter includes Diwali recipes, a glossary, a Diwali card game, a map, and a resource list of books and Web sites. Also included is a note to parents and teachers from the book's consultant, Dr. Vasudha Narayanan.
Children's Literature
As part of the "Holidays Around the World" series by National Geographic, the author Deborah Heiligman, along with her consultant Dr. Vasudha Narayanan, cooperatively presents the reader with an insider's view of a colorful and joyous holiday known as Diwali and celebrated by people of the Hindu, Sikh, and Jain faiths with sweet treats, lots of lights, and loud, booming fireworks. Diwali, known as the Festival of Lights, is a traditional holiday that celebrates the victory of good over evil. Pictures of traditional clothing and food, celebrations with colors, lights, and more come alive on each page. The holy River Ganga, along with other beautifully represented areas of India, such as the Golden Temple in Amritsar is included in the Diwali traditions. The photographs encourage the reader to take a pictorial trip around the world where Diwali is celebrated in places such as Bethesda, Maryland, and Durban, South Africa. The reader will learn that just as in all other holidays, this is a time to visit with and honor family and friends. Presented through a rich blend of text and photographs, this fascinating cultural, historical, and religious celebration is clearly a treasure for all who believe in the triumph of good over evil. Reviewer: Melissa Stickles