It's Kwanzaa Time

Publishers Weekly

Full-color spreads in Saint James's (No Mirrors in My Nana's House) signature vibrant colors and bold shapes introduce Kwanzaa's seven principles, along with its definition and pronunciation, in this engaging interactive book. Children lift the flaps to reveal how each principle is lived and celebrated. For instance, "On the fifth day of Kwanzaa we celebrate the principle of Nia (NEE-ah), which means `purpose,' " appears opposite a graduation scene. Ages 4-7. (Oct.) Copyright 2001 Cahners Business Information.

Children's Literature

There is very little new in this lift-the-flap story which explains when Kwanzaa begins (December 26th) and why it is celebrated. Saint James recognizable illustrations show a variety of families of African heritage engaging in activities that demonstrate the seven principles including working together, helping each other to keep neighborhoods save and clean, and creativity¾which in this case could be a self-portrait of the artist and her canvas which may reflect a desire to be spending time on a warm sunny island beach. The book is more of a personal purchase due to the potential fragility of the flaps. It will be welcomed by families who wish to introduce young children to the holiday and its purpose. 2001, Little Simon, $5.99. Ages 3 to 5. Reviewer:Marilyn Courtot

School Library Journal

PreS-Gr 2-One or two sentences per page describe the seven days and the seven principles of Kwanzaa: "On the third day of Kwanzaa we celebrate the principle of Ujima (oo-JEE-mah), which means `working together.'" The opposite page features an illustration of a group of people and the words, "Together we know that-." Lift the flap to reveal a large structure the people have built and the words, "we can get things done." The simple statements are enforced by Saint James's flat, graphic-style illustrations that are characterized by solid blocks of color, stylized compositions, and featureless faces. An attractive teaching tool to introduce the concepts to young audiences.-S. P. Copyright 2001 Cahners Business Information.