Holidays

Independence Day in the United States is a day of celebration, carrying a wide range of meanings for those who participate. Included here are excellent books that explain the history of the 4th of July, as well as the history of the US flag. In Apple Pie Fourth of July, a Chinese-American girl is embarrassed when her family cooks Chinese food on this day instead of more “American” food, only to find many happy customers just like every other day — she gains a new perspective of what being American can truly mean and of how pride in her heritage fits in. Ages 4 — 8.

These books honor Halloween as practiced in the U.S., and also the original, ancient traditions for this holiday, including Samhain and Day of the Dead. Jan Brett does a great job of illustrating Scary, Scary Halloween in a not-so-scary way, making it appropriate for all ages. The Little Old Lady Who Was Not Afraid of Anything offers some true spooky fun for those children who are ready. Ages 3 — 7.

More great choices of books to read to help celebrate the ancient traditions of Samhain and Day of the Dead, as well as the American version of Halloween. Room on the Broom is a silly, sweet book that children will beg to hear again and again. All of these are lighthearted and fun. Ages 4 — 8.