Sikh

Children's Literature

This title is part of the publisher's series titled "Beliefs and Cultures." Other titles in the series are Buddhist, Christian, Hindu, Jewish, and Muslim. These titles are U.S. editions of original UK publications, and are described as "information and activity books." The opening chapter describes the origin of the Sikh faith, with the teachings of Guru Nanak, and traces its history briefly through to the present-day Sikh diaspora. Subsequent chapters address the ten Gurus or preceptors of Sikh tradition, the Harimandir or Golden Temple in Amritsar, India; defending the Sikh faith, including the 5 Ks, symbols of Sikh identity; the Guru Granth Sahib or holy book; the role of the Gurudwara or Sikh temple in spiritual life; everyday Sikh life; and celebrations. Sidebars spotlight additional information and offer samplers of text in Gurmukhi script. In addition, each chapter includes an activity (e.g., a craft activity inspired by the mirror work on the ceiling of the Harimandir, and a recipe for karah parsad, the sweet that constitutes the sacred offering at Gurudwaras). In interpreting the recipe, American readers will need the clarification that semolina is cream of wheat. The text is nicely rounded out by a sample story from Guru Nanak's life, and by interviews with British Sikh children. The author takes pains to show us Sikh communities in a contemporary light. 2005, Sea to Sea, Ages 7 to 10.
—Uma Krishnaswami

School Library Journal

Gr 3-6Four books that highlight major world religions. The titles are visually attractive, with clear print and many full-color photographs and illustrations. However, the texts are superficial. They gloss over (or ignore) controversial issues such as the Hindu caste system and political conflicts between Sikhs and the Indian government. Essential information is omitted: death and reincarnation in Sikh; Gandhi, gurus, the four stages of life, and the religion's influence in the West in Hindu; Talmud and Zionism in Jewish; and Sunnis and Shiites, hegira, caliph, and jihad in Muslim. Glossaries and indexes are incomplete. Maps are confusing and lack vital data. The two or three crafts per volume are difficult, mainly due to vague, inadequate instructions (for instance, directions for making papier-mch do not specify how much flour, water, or newspaper to use). The books' British origin is particularly annoying in recipes ("7 ounces of semolina"). Children need readable overviews of world religions, but these series entries are disappointing efforts.Ann W. Moore, Guilderland Public Library, NY