December 26 – Kwanzaa

Happy Kwanzaa!

Today is the first day of the seven day celebration of African heritage known as Kwanzaa, which lasts for seven days embodying the seven basic principals of Kwanzaa: Unity, Self-Determination, Collective Work and Responsibility, Cooperative Economics, Purpose, Creativity, and Faith.

Kwanzaa written by Rebecca Rissman (2010)

This book is an introduction to Kwanzaa for the very youngest readers. Photographs accompany the single sentence on each page. Simple facts are an easy way for children to become familiar with traditions and can be the starting point for more discussion.

Kwanzaa written by Molly Aloian (2009)

Photographs help tell the story of the African-American celebration of Kwanzaa. This week long celebration occurs between Christmas and New Year’s. It’s a celebration of ancestors and culture. This book gives young readers a more in-depth understanding and appreciation of the holiday.