Editorial Review
SLJ Review of History of Holidays and Festivals

Young readers are treated to a thorough history of many of America’s popular celebrations. Each title answers the basic questions a novice researcher or curious mind would ask about a holiday. When did it start? How is it celebrated? Why is it important? A detailed history of each holiday is provided, along with vivid descriptions of traditional clothes, foods, dances, and activities. Readers will be able to trace the evolution of traditions through generations. Sprinkled throughout the text are primary source quotes and chapter questions that ask readers to put into practice strategies for reading informational text. The books conclude with a timeline, a glossary, an index, links to the publisher’s online resources, and critical thinking questions with writing prompts. VERDICT A strong presentation of research material with the added benefit of built-in information literacy exercises.