India – The Land of Festivals: A Monthly Guidebook to Diverse Celebrations (Indian Festival Series)
Do you want to teach kids at home or school about Indian festivals? This book provides a unique monthly guide for children to learn about over twenty-five Indian festivals celebrated by Indians living in India and around the world. It encompasses festivals from six major religions in India including Hinduism, Sikhism, Jainism, Buddhism, Islam and Christianity. Children can learn a brief introduction about each of the festivals, including the what, why, how and when.
Beautiful illustrations capture various colorful details of each festival to help kids get a visual representation of them which will spark their curiosity for learning. Fun activities in the back of the book can make learning about these festivals more fun!
Diversify your home, school, and community libraries with this book on various Indian festivals.
Mohla explores India’s manifold celebrations and customs in this nonfiction picture book.
The cultural and religious diversity of India’s people are central to this month-by-month guide. In January, Hindus from all over the country enjoy the harvest festival before ringing in the beginning of spring in February. From February to April, Muslims fast during Ramadan, which ends with the festivities of Eid-al-Fitr: “Families gather to enjoy traditional dishes and sweets like sevai (rice vermicelli). Everyone wears new clothes. Kids get unique gifts called Eidee.” Holi, the Hindu festival of colors, is celebrated in March to honor Radha Krishna while Sikhs in a region of Punjab hold a three-day festival devoted to courage and bravery. Christian families celebrate Easter in April while Jains commemorate the birth of the last saint of Jainism for Mahavir Jayanti. May brings Buddha Purnima for Buddhists to honor the birth of Buddha through meditation. The book concludes with interactive games that encourage engagement and learning.
Gow’s detailed illustrations emphasize the color and lights of each festivity, highlight each culture’s traditional dress, and elegantly introduce the book’s many religious symbols. The prose is informative, straightforward, and intersperses Hindi words for objects and foods. While the book offers an opportunity for children of Indian heritage to connect with their origins, it is alsoa goldmine for any child who is fascinated by world cultures and travel.
A look at India’s diverse cultural celebrations bursting with vibrant color and heart.
– Kirkus Reviews
