Explores the customs, traditions, and celebrations of autumn holidays throughout the world. - (Baker & Taylor)

Booklist Reviews

Reviewed with Cath Senker's Winter.Gr. 2-4. Dividing the year into three-month sections--September to November in Autumn, then December to February in Winter--these entries in the Holidays around the World series address one holiday per spread, forming a kind of calendar of international celebrations. Although sidebars containing "fictionalized accounts" of holiday activities are somewhat misleadingly styled as quotes from real children, the descriptions of enjoying "roast goat" on Christmas in Zimbabwe or making Happy Id ul-Fitr cards in Canada contribute vivid details to the more straightforward historical and religious information. Along with a glossary and bibliography, a concluding chart gives the featured holidays' dates through 2006 (children may need help in understanding the accompanying explanation of why holidays determined by the lunar calendar "float" throughout the year). Abundant full-color photos provide a panoramic view of holiday activities both festive and solemn, and the unusual format gives young readers a chance to see their own familiar celebrations in the context of cultures and traditions from around the world. ((Reviewed November 15, 2004)) Copyright 2004 Booklist Reviews.