Synopsis
The beginning of the Sikh religion, and its relation to Islam and Hinduism, are detailed in this fully illustrated text. Readers will learn about the Gurus, sacred books, and the going to Gurdwara. Sikh holidays and traditions are explained.
Uma Krishnaswami - 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.