The Children's Book of Kwanzaa A Guide to Celebrating the Holiday

by Johnson, Dolores; Johnson, Dolores

• ISBN13: 9780689815560
• ISBN10: 0689815565
• Edition: Reprint
• Format: Paperback
• Copyright: 1997-10-01
• Publisher: Aladdin

Summary

STRENGTHENING THE FAMILY AND THE COMMUNITYEach year on December 26, the African American holiday of Kwanzaa begins. What is the purpose of Kwanzaa? How did it get its start? Dolores Johnson's easy-to-follow guide gives detailed descriptions of Kwanzaa's principles and symbols. This comprehensive resource also includes recipes and craft and gift ideas, as well as suggestions to help young readers and their families create their own special Kwanzaa celebration.

Author Biography

Dolores Johnson is the talented author-illustrator of many books for children, including Now Let Me Fly, What Will Mommy Do When I'm in School, and Seminole Diary, which was an American Bookseller Pick of the List

She writes, "My editor was the first person to suggest to me that I write a book about Kwanzaa, and I am so glad she did. In writing this book, I was able to explore new territory other than my usual fiction stories. I was able to examine history, design crafts, experiment with recipes, as well as offer all children a way to participate in a fascinating cultural celebration."

A graduate of Boston University, Ms. Johnson was born and raised in New Britain, Connecticut. She now lives in Inglewood, California

Table of Contents

Introduction	9	(6)
A History of Africans and Africans in America and Its Importance in the Celebration of Kwanzaa	15	(18)
What Are the Seven Principles of Kwanzaa and How Are They Practiced?	33	(14)
What Are the Symbols of Kwanzaa and How Are They Used in the Celebration?	47	(10)
Crafts to Make Before Kwanzaa	57	(18)
The Kinara	58	(5)
The Mishumaa Saba (Candles)	63	(1)
The Mkeka (Mat)	64	(4)
Mazao Basket	68	(4)
The Kikombe Cha Umoja (Unity Cup)	72	(1)
The Bendera Ya Taifa (Unity Flag)	73	(2)
Gifts to Make for Kwanzaa	75	(44)
Jewelry	76	(5)
Decorative Items	81	(3)
Musical Instruments	84	(4)
Textiles	88	(14)
Paper Crafts	102	(7)
Books	109	(2)
Toys	111	(8)
Recipes for a Well-Fed Kwanzaa	119	(16)
Appetizers/Salads	120	(1)
Main Dishes	121	(5)
Vegetables	126	(1)
Breads	127	(2)
Desserts	129	(4)
Drinks	133	(2)
Special Programs for Kwanzaa	135	(10)
How Do I Prepare for Kwanzaa?	145	(4)
Where to Buy	149	(6)
Glossary	155	(3)
Bibliography	158	(2)
Calendar	160