Multicultural Children and Young Adult Literature

  Culture 2 African American Literature Book Review A. BIBLIOGRAPHY Pinkney, Andrea. 1993. SEVEN CANDLES FOR KWANZAA. New York, NY: Dial Books for Young Readers. ISBN 0803712936 . B. PLOT SUMMARY What is Kwanzaa?   Kwanzaa is an African American celebration that occurs from December 26 th through January 1 st of each year.   In Swahili, the word Kwanzaa means first fruits of the harvest.   The celebration that takes place in America is a time when those of African descent celebrate their African heritage.   There are seven principles celebrated, one for each day of the weeklong celebration.   C. CRITICAL ANALYSIS (INCLUDING CULTURAL MARKERS) The illustrations in this book capture an Afrocentric family with its vibrant colors and patterns.   The clothes, food, movements, and objects depicted here demonstrate how Kwanzaa is celebrated.   The details drawn on the faces of the people down to the hairstyles are distinct to the African cult...

  Culture 1:   International Literature Book Review A. BIBLIOGRAPHY Fox, Mem. 2009. HELLO BABY! New York, NY: Beach Lane Books. ISBN 9781416985136. B. PLOT SUMMARY A human baby has an opportunity to explore a habitat where other living babies dwell.   The human baby observes unique features and mannerisms of the other babies.   Ultimately, the baby discovers a treasure. C. CRITICAL ANALYSIS (INCLUDING CULTURAL MARKERS) The general environment is the cultural marker in this book.   The illustrator Steve Jenkins does an amazing job of capturing the detail of each animal baby.   The colors are vibrant and beautiful.   The animals appear to live in the same African savanna habitat. The author Mem Fox grew up in Africa and captures the uniqueness of the babies who live here quite well. D. REVIEW EXCERPTS Charlotte Zolotow Award Nominee for Highly Commended Title Kirkus:  “ This picture book brims with fascinating animals, brilliant ...