Happy New Year, everywhere!

Children's Literature

New Year's traditions vary around the globe. In this informational picture book, the author presents customs that may be unfamiliar to most Americans. Twenty countries are featured; each has a double-page spread that includes a small world map to identify its location. Some basic information is given at the beginning of each section—the date(s) on which the New Year is celebrated, the name for the New Year, and the pronunciation for a New Year greeting in the country's native language. Historical nuggets about each country and how it typically celebrates the New Year are contained in a short text. An accompanying activity is included for each country; these are simple and varied (traditional foods to make, crafts, games, and music). The illustrated instructions for each activity are easy to follow and require common supplies. This book is a very useful follow-up to an instructional unit about New Year's celebrations around the world. 2000, The Millbrook Press. Ages 4 to 10. Reviewer: Carol Lynch

School Library Journal

Gr 2-5-Through interesting text and colorful, dynamic illustrations, this excellent offering briefly describes traditional New Year's celebrations and customs in 20 countries. The introduction explains that varying cultures observe different calendars and seasonal celebrations. Each spread highlights a different country, providing the dates of the observance; the name of the holiday; the traditional greeting (with a helpful pronunciation key); and a related game, recipe, song, or craft. Simple, colorful line drawings illustrate the projects and a world map pinpoints the location of each celebration. Festive side borders with stars and fireworks adorn each page. This title's particular strengths are the activities and the lengthy bibliography. A book that will greatly enhance research projects or study units.- Betsy Barnett, Eads School District, CO Copyright 2000 Cahners Business Information.