Kwanzaaa Books

Kwanzaa Reading Fun!

 The following books will be good reading for your Kwanzaa Day celebrations and to learn more about this wonderful holiday!


Habari Gani? What's the News? A Kwanzaa Story by Sundaira Morninghouse and Paintings by Jody Kim.


December 26 to January 1 will never be the same for seven year old Kia and her family. This year the Edwards are celebrating Kwanzaa, the only indigenous, non-heroic African American holiday in the U.s.. "Habari Gani" replaces "hi," and as each day unfolds, Kia experiencs the severn principles of Kwanzaa woven into the fabric of her family and community life. With Kida, we learn that Kwanzaa is a cultural and political celebration of the African-American experience.This book is well organized. The pictures are warm, friendly, and inviting. The illustrations are absolutely gorgeous! I like how the book is simple and easy to read. It is a great introduction to the Kwanzaa celebration!


This is great simple, Kwanzaa book that is a nice addition to any home, school, and public library collection!***************************************


The Sound of Kwanzaa by Dimitrea Tokunbo and Illustrated by Lisa Cohen


"Come close, gather 'round. Listen to the sound of Kwanzaa. Loving words and greeting family, we stand together for UMOJA. UMOJA means "unity." One black candle gently shines to welcome our first Kwanzaa night."


The words "Come close gather round..." is echoed throughout for each of the seven principles of Kwanzaa.


This brightly colored Kwanzaa story is a must have for anyone who wants to learn more about Kwanzaa. The colors are rich and vibrant. The peope are happy. There is a wonderful Author's Note at the end tells how the author met the founder of Kwanzaa , Dr. Maulana Karenga. He lists the 7 principles of Kwanzaa that include:


UMOJA  - Unity
KUJICHAGULIA - Self Determination
UJIMA - Collective Work and Responsibility
UJAMAA - Cooperative Economics
NIA - Purpose
KUUMBA - Creativity
IMANI - Faith


There is a No-Cook Kwanzaa Brownie Bites Recipe and a Bibliography at the end

This book should be available in home, school, and public libraries.

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The Children's Book of KWANZAA: A Guide to Celebrating the Holiday
by Delores Johnson


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This wonderfully written book explains what Kwanzaa is, how it came to be, and details its principles and symbols. She includes an extensive craft and recipe section with instructions and diagrams for making everything from the seven symbols, to gifts for family and friends, to a scrumptious meal for the Kwanzaa Karamu.

The chapters are organized as follows:

Chapter 1: A History of Africans and Africans in America and Its importance in the Celebration of Kwanzaa

Chapter 2: What are the Seven Principles of Kwanzaa and How are they Practiced

Chapter 3: What are the Symbols of Kwanzaa and How are they Used in the Celebration

Chapter 4: Crafts to Make Before Kwanzaa

Chapter 5: Gifts to Make for Kwanzaa

Chapter 6: Recipes for a Well-Fed Kwanzaa

Chapter 7: Special Programs for Kwanzaa

Chapter 8: How Do I Prepare for Kwanzaa

Chapter 9: Where to Buy

This book also includes a Glossary, Bibliography, and Calendar.

This book is a great addition to anyone's Kwanzaa library... home, public, school, etc.


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Until the next time....


Happy Reading...


A children's book a day, keeps the scary monster away!The Seven Principles are listed in the back as well as a Glossary.