Children's Literature
- Annie Laura Smith
Festivals of countries around the world are addressed in this twelve-book series. A contents page shows the scope of the work while vivid graphics and photographs take the reader on a journey to the festivals in France. The festivals throughout France are listed by season, and some are shown in-depth through text, graphic illustrations, and color photographs. Although not divided into respective chapters, the individual divisions contribute to the whole topic. The text provides lessons in history, geography, and the culture of the country. The book is an excellent supplement for these classroom disciplines. Descriptions of regional craft and cooking activities, such as making a fish mobile or a Buche de Noel (chocolate and ice cream Yule log), allow the reader to participate in this culture. The book succeeds well overall in the presentation of festival information. The language is age-appropriate and a glossary defines relevant words. The index allows easy navigation through the book. Reviewer: Annie Laura Smith
Children's Literature
- Jeanne K. Pettenati
Children will learn some interesting historical facts about France in this book about that country's festivals. How did Bastille Day get its name? Why is Breton culture distinct from that of the rest of the nation? Who is the patron saint of gypsies and what French town hosts one of the largest gypsy festivals in the world? The answers to these questions are in this book, which is part of a series on world festivals offered by the publisher. Information about Mardi Gras, the Battle of the Flowers, and Grape Harvest festivals is also provided. Bright photos of each celebration accompany the text. Teachers can use this book to supplement cultural studies in elementary school classes. "Festivals of the World" series.
School Library Journal
Gr 4-6A colorful, attractivebut superficialreview of five French festivals. Following a brief introduction to the country, McKay lists "Ftes" by seasons: Brittany's Cornouaille Festival, Bastille Day, Nice's Carnaval celebrations, the Gypsy festival from the Camargue, and Burgundy's grape-harvest festivals. An art lesson, a craft, and a recipe conclude the book. Although the information is accurate, the text is often silly and condescending. Overall, so much is omitted that the book is misleading and unhelpful. The list of festivals gives no dates and few places, and includes only 4 of France's 11 public holidays. Children will enjoy learning about special days unique to this country, but they will question the absence of material on Christmas, Easter (which isn't even mentioned), and other familiar holidays. The "Things for You to Do" section is a total waste of six pages.Ann W. Moore, Schenectady County Public Library, NY
