Fourth of July Fireworks

Children's Literature

Let's celebrate Independence Day with a bang! Start this fun day with a parade, ball game, picnic, or party while the sun is shining. When the sun sets and all is quiet and dark¾Pop, Bam, Boom¾colorful lights explode in the sky. Every Fourth of July Americans celebrate, remembering the same day in 1776 when American colonists set forth the Declaration of Independence, breaking away from England to form a free country. Fireworks, or pyrotechnics, originated in China and are used all over the world to celebrate special occasions. Now they are our best-known Forth of July tradition. Find out more about the beautiful but dangerous workings of that magnificent combination of gunpowder, chemicals and fire. Review the glossary and index at the back of the book to reinforce new words and concepts. Marvel at the beautiful photographs that will remind you of fireworks past and make you look forward to the next big celebration. Part of the "Holiday Symbols" series. 2000, The Child's World,
— Barbara Kennedy

Children's Literature - Children's Literature

With simple text and excellent illustrations, this book describes our Independence Day holiday and its characteristic colorful flashes of light known as fireworks. The beginning chapter sets the tone and following chapters identify the holiday's meaning, how the holiday began, and how it is celebrated with fireworks. The history, craft and mechanics of fireworks are also discussed. Safety considerations for fireworks complete this brief, information book. The book is one of a nonfiction series andbut it may also be read as a story. Each page of text is paired with an appropriate illustration, primarily color photographs. A table of contents, a glossary and an index are included. The book will augment nicely studies of U.S. history and holiday symbols. 2000, The Child's World, Ages 5 to 8, $22.79. Reviewer: Jacki Vawter

School Library Journal

Gr 2-3-These titles present basic information on holiday symbols. Easter Bunnies explains how the rabbit came to be associated with this season and introduces various traditions related to it. Religion is mentioned, but it is not the book's focus. The author also notes the importance of taking responsibility for baby rabbits that are sometimes impulsively purchased as gifts during this season. Fireworks follows a similar format, explaining the origin of Fourth of July celebrations and how fireworks are made and used. Halloween presents a history of jack-o'-lanterns along with a description of this holiday's origin. Stevens also discusses how Irish settlers brought the story of Jack and his lantern to North America in the 1800s. All of the texts are clearly written and well organized. Important terms are highlighted in boldface text and defined in glossaries. Each book includes clear, close-up, full-color photographs. Halloween and Fireworks also have black-and-white line drawings. With their easy-to-read texts, these are fine additions.-Denise Brna, Bentleyville Public Library, PA Copyright 2000 Cahners Business Information.