Intro
The World Cultures kit series is designed to introduce students to how different things look across the world. From food to funerals, these kits have been designed to help students recognize themselves and their cultures as part of many that exist and that there are universal ideas that permeate all cultures.
Part of anti-racism work is making sure students have accurate information in order to challenge stereotypes and help them understand from authentic voices what goes on in different cultures. That demystifying goes beyond multi-culturalism, to understanding lived experiences so that students can better understand each other.
Click the to learn more about each book.
World Foods: Grades 2-5
Food Literacy starts at home and understanding how much food and culture are intertwined. Explore cultures across the world and food that is relevant to them as part of celebrations. This is paired with the book The Antiracist Kitchen, a collection of stories and recipes designed to teach kids about food and culture.
Suitability: Grade 2, 3, 4, 5
Subjects: Applied Design, Skills and Technologies, Social Studies.
13 books.
The Antiracist Kitchen by
An anthology featuring stories and recipes from racialized authors about food, culture and resistance What if talking about racism was as easy as baking a cake, frying plantains or cooking rice? The Antiracist Kitchen: 21 Stories (and Recipes)is a celebration of food, family, activism and resistance in the face of racism. In this anthology featuring stories and recipes from 21 diverse and award-winning North American children's authors, the authors share the role of food in their lives and how it has helped fight discrimination, reclaim culture and celebrate people with different backgrounds. They bring personal and sometimes difficult experiences growing up as racialized people. Chopped, seared, marinated and stewed,The Antiracist Kitchen highlights the power of sitting down to share a meal and how that simple act can help bring us all together. Featuring recipes and stories from S.K. Ali, Bryan Patrick Avery, Ruth Behar, Marty Chan, Ann Yu-Kyung Choi, Hasani Claxton, Natasha Deen, Reyna Grande, Deidre Havrelock, Jennifer de Leon, Andrea J. Loney, Janice Lynn Mather, Linda Sue Park, Danny Ramadan, Sarah Raughley, Waubgeshig Rice, Rahma Rodaah, Andrea Rogers, Simran Jeet Singh, Ayelet Tsabari and Susan Yoon.
ISBN: 9781459833432Publication Date: 2023-09-12
The Blue Bowl by
A young boy realizes, thanks to his family, that he can enjoy both his Chinese and North American cultures through his favorite dishes Max loves his family's Cantonese meals, like steamed rice and gai lan greens with oyster sauce, homemade dumplings, and scallion bread. But sometimes he can't help thinking about French fries, tacos, and ice cream with rainbow sprinkles. For his birthday dinner, Max is really hoping for spaghetti and meatballs, but instead he and his family are headed to Maa Maa and Ye Ye's house for a celebration dinner--and Max is pretty sure that spaghetti won't be served in the familiar blue bowls that came all the way from Hong Kong with his grandparents. But Max is delighted to discover that his understanding family has discovered a way to bring two cultures together with delicious dishes that are a combination of all the foods he loves. Based on the author's own experiences growing up, The Blue Bowl will speak to many children and adults alike with similar experiences and bring a new perspective to those who do not share in this experience. With deliciously eye-catching illustrations and descriptive, inviting text, readers will be reminded of all their favourite foods as they follow along with Max's story.
ISBN: 9781771474634Publication Date: 2024-03-15
Bubbie and Rivka's Best-Ever Challah (So Far!) by
Practice makes progress in this multigenerational story about family traditions and the pursuit of the perfect challahBubbie and Rivka are not the best bakers . . . yet. But they are starting a new tradition. Every Friday they will bake a challah together!Week after week, Bubbie and Rivka pull a challah out of the oven that's not quite right. Once, it's a little lumpy. Another time, it's totally burnt! But no matter what has gone wrong, each challah is the best one they've ever made (. . . so far!) As Bubbie and Rivka put their heads together to solve each week's baking disaster, they learn something new about how to approach their next challah, fine-tuning their skills and ensuring next week's bread will be even tastier. They learn that practice makes progress and persistence makes for some very special together time . . . and some very yummy challah!
ISBN: 9781419758980Publication Date: 2022-09-20
Dim Sum Palace by
A little girl's love of dim sum spills over into her dreams, taking her on a fantastical food-filled adventure, in this picture book love letter to Maurice Sendak's In the Night Kitchen. Beautifully illustrated with a gold foil cover, this is the perfect gift for foodies of all ages. Liddy is so excited about going to the Dim Sum Palace tomorrow with her family that she can't sleep. So when a delicious smell wafts into her room, she hops out of bed, opens her door and steps into . . . an actual palace of dim sum! There are dumplings, baos, buns and more delicious treats than one girl can possibly eat. Liddy just has to take a bite, but she slips and falls . . . into a bowl of dumpling filling. The chefs are so busy rolling, folding and pinching dough that they don't notice they've prepared a most unusual dumpling for the Empress -- a Liddy dumpling! Worst of all, she looks good enough to eat . . . This deliciously humorous debut picture book, inspired by X. Fang's memories as a child of epic dim sum feasts, is a dreamworld adventure that is at once a glorious celebration of the sensory world of childhood and a loving helping of food, family and culture.
ISBN: 9781774881989Publication Date: 2023-09-12
Do Not Eat This Book! by
With a little Yiddish and a lot of humor mixed in, this bubbly read-aloud picture book about holiday foods and traditions emphasizes the joy of the Jewish experience. Rhyming text takes readers through Jewish holidays, including Tu B'Shevat, Purim, and Chanukah, and their related special dishes. Colorful artwork brings the mouthwatering foods to the page and the table. But no matter how delicious the foods look, do not eat this book! Back matter includes a glossary describing each holiday, along with easy, kid-friendly recipes for the featured dishes, kitchen-tested by the author and her family.
ISBN: 9781534111882Publication Date: 2023-08-15
Feasts and Festivals Around the World: from Lunar New Year to Christmas by
Explore the celebrations and feasts of twelve countries and cultures from around the world! From South Korea to Nigeria to the USA, come celebrate festivals throughout the year! People around the world are celebrating. In Australia, it's Christmas in summer with barbecues on the beach. In Thailand, they're celebrating Songkran, the famous Buddhist water festival. Rhyming text and graphic illustrations pair perfectly and invite young readers to explore the world through mesmerizing festivals. A stunning companion to Pancakes to Parathas: Breakfast Around the World!
ISBN: 9781499812176Publication Date: 2022-03-08
Laolao's Dumplings by
Millie loves to help LaoLao cook, especially her favorite dish. Dumplings! They gather fresh ingredients from Chinatown. Chives from Auntie Lim, shrimp from Uncle Lee, and juicy, fragrant lychees that make their days together so sweet.As the seasons change, LaoLao feels more and more tired, too tired to make dumplings. But can Millie make them without LaoLao? And will her dumplings come out delicious, and make LaoLao happy, too?Full of humor, heart, and wholly original illustrations, this story is a timeless celebration of family, food, community, and the different ways we share love.
ISBN: 9781250778192Publication Date: 2023-12-05
Pizza, Pickles, and Apple Pie by
How did a pizza become a pizza? Is a pickle really a cucumber in disguise? Explore fascinating food history, nutrition, and American culture through this middle-grade graphic-format nonfiction book for kids that answers oft-asked questions about the foods we love, explaining how they came to be. Whether it's pizza and pickles or sushi and salad, there's a story behind all of our favorite foods. From breakfast to dinner, this book explores popular foods from our history, and explains their origins. Young readers will travel back in time-sometimes thousands of years-to cultures all over the globe to learn how and why foods were discovered. They'll also meet key people from food history along the way, including the inventor of breakfast cereal and the creator of salad dressing. The science behind unhealthy foods is also explored in this fascinating book, which includes projects and activities for both the classroom and home.
ISBN: 9781662670138Publication Date: 2023-10-31
Rice by
Readers visit a farm in China to learn more about a hard-working rice farmer's life and the importance of this crop to the Chinese people.
ISBN: 9781478869375Publication Date: 2020-10-01
Sankofa by
Inspired by acclaimed chef Eric Adjepong's own childhood, Sankofa is the powerful story of a young boy's culinary journey 400 years into the past to reconnect with his African roots and find his own place in America. What if home was a place you've never been? For Kofi, a first-generation Ghanaian American boy, home is a country called Ghana. But it's a place he's never been. When tasked to bring a dish that best represents his family's culture to school for a potluck lunch, Kofi is torn. With the help of his Nanabarima (grandfather), Kofi learns the hardship and resilience his family has endured-and how food has always been an integral part their story and culture. Sankofa is a reminder that food can transport you to a place called home-even if you've never been.
ISBN: 9780593385944Publication Date: 2023-10-03
Sweet Laba Congee by
Set in a quaint Chinese village, Yaner helps her grandmother prepare for the Laba Festival and make Laba congee together.
ISBN: 9781478869344Publication Date: 2020-01-01
Welcome to Our Table by
Find out what children eat all around the world in this beautifully illustrated book, written by bestselling poet and author Laura Mucha, alongside trained chef and food writer Ed Smith. From biltong to biryani, papaya to passionfruit, and ramen to roti, there are so many different dishes and delicacies all around the world. In this fascinating book, young children can learn all about what people in other countries eat for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, as well as where our food comes from, and the stories, cultures, and traditions behind what we eat. A unique, warm-hearted book that will teach children understanding, empathy, and respect, and inspire a love of food and flavor. With engaging, colorful artwork on every page by award-winning illustrator Harriet Lynas.
ISBN: 9798887770185Publication Date: 2023-08-01
Wish Soup by
Celebrate Korean Lunar New Year and join one child's quest to eat enough bowls of soup to become a "big girl!" Sohee's favorite part of Seollal is tteokguk-the special Korean rice cake soup traditionally only enjoyed on New Year's Day. Each bowl is said to make the person who eats it one year older. This year, Sohee wants to eat as many bowls as she can to finally be an eonni, or "big girl," to her younger siblings and cousins. Before Sohee can even get to her first bowl, though, she's interrupted by a series of holiday-related chores, leaving plenty of opportunity for her mischievous younger sister Somi to eat not only Sohee's tteokguk, but their whole family's! Despite this outrageously silly setback, Sohee eventually learns that being a big girl is more than just how many bowls of tteokguk you eat. This funny story of a child's journey to discover what it really means to be a big girl explores the traditions of Korean Lunar New Year and the value of family and helpfulness.
ISBN: 9780316457361Publication Date: 2023-12-05
Grandparents Around the World
Grandparents are a big part of many of our lives and represent wisdom, cultural knowledge and traditions. Explore family's love for their grandparents around the world and what it means to look after one's elders. Part of the World Culture Series of kits.
Suitability: Grade 2, 3, 4, 5.
Subjects: Cross-Cultural Studies, Social Studies.
13 books.
Be a Good Ancestor by
Rooted in Indigenous teachings, this stunning picture book encourages readers of all ages to consider the ways in which they live in connection to the world around them and to think deeply about their behaviors. Addressing environmental issues, animal welfare, self-esteem and self-respect, and the importance of community, the authors deliver a poignant and universal message in an accessible way: Be a good ancestor to the world around you. Thought-provoking stanzas offer a call to action for each one of us to consider how we affect future generations. Every decision we make ripples out, and we can affect the world around us by thinking deeply about those decisions.
ISBN: 9781459831407Publication Date: 2022-05-17
Beneath by
In this stunning story from New York Times bestselling creator Cori Doerrfeld, a child and their grandfather take a walk in the woods and discover more about themselves. Finn is in a horrible mood and doesn't want to talk about it. After some persuading, though, they agree to go for a hike with Grandpa. Throughout their forest walk, they see many different things: big, strong trees with networks of roots growing underneath, still water with schools of fish swimming below, and an expectant bird with eggs nestled under her. It's when the pair pass fellow hikers that Finn realizes that people, just like the elements of nature, are more than they appear. Grandpa explains that sometimes beneath a person who seems like they won't understand what you're feeling, is someone feeling the exact same way. This sweet and tender picture book celebrates our similarities, differences, and that there's always more under the surface of what we can see.
ISBN: 9780316312264Publication Date: 2023-01-17
The Care and Keeping of Grandmas by
It can be discombobulating for all involved when a grandma moves in permanently. Fortunately, our narrator has gone through it and has LOTS of tips on how to make your grandma feel at home. In a story filled with humor, confusion and moments of sweetness, Jennifer Mook-Sang introduces us to a delightful family dynamic and a grandma who doesn't really need the help settling in but appreciates it anyway. As Grandma goes about her days, her well-meaning granddaughter sees her caring for her plants, and makes sure that Grandma is getting the proper care too.
ISBN: 9780735271340Publication Date: 2023-04-04
Drawn Together by
The recipient of six starred reviews and the APALA Asian/Pacific American Award for Literature! Named a Best Book of 2018 by the Wall Street Journal, NPR, Smithsonian, Kirkus Reviews, School Library Journal, Booklist, the Bulletin of the Center for Children's Books, BookRiot, the New York Public Library, the Chicago Public Library--and many more! When a young boy visits his grandfather, their lack of a common language leads to confusion, frustration, and silence. But as they sit down to draw together, something magical happens--with a shared love of art and storytelling, the two form a bond that goes beyond words. With spare, direct text by Minh Lê and luminous illustrations by Caldecott Medalist Dan Santat, this stirring picture book about reaching across barriers will be cherished for years to come. A Junior Library Guild selection!
ISBN: 9781484767603Publication Date: 2018-06-05
Grandpa's Stars by
Where I live, lots of lights flash and glow in the night sky. It's different at Grandpa's house. During a week--long visit to Grandpa's house, a young child sees the night sky clearly for the first time and realizes all the wonderful things that can be seen in the stars with Grandpa's help and a bit of imagination: penguins, rubber boots, and even an elephant! When Grandpa has to go to the hospital, and everything feels wrong and sad, the child comes up with a plan to recreate the special night sky they shared. With the help of some craft supplies and paper, the child's bedroom ceiling is transformed into a comforting masterpiece where it just might be possible to see Grandpa marching with penguins.
ISBN: 9781554554638Publication Date: 2023-04-27
Just Like Grandma by
In this lyrical picture book by Kim Rogers (Wichita), with illustrations by Boston Globe-Horn Book Honoree Julie Flett (Cree-Métis), Becca watches her grandma create, play, and dance--and she knows that she wants to be just like Grandma. Becca loves spending time with Grandma. Every time Becca says, "Let me try," Grandma shows her how to make something beautiful. Whether they are beading moccasins, dancing like the most beautiful butterflies, or practicing basketball together, Becca knows that, more than anything, she wants to be just like Grandma. And as the two share their favorite activities, Becca discovers something surprising about Grandma. Features an author's note and glossary.
ISBN: 9780063049246Publication Date: 2023-01-24
My Baba's Garden by
The bond between a child and his grandmother grows as they tend her garden together. A young boy spends his mornings with his beloved Baba, his grandmother. She doesn't speak much English, but they connect through gestures, gardening, eating, and walking to school together. Marked by memories of wartime scarcity, Baba cherishes food, and the boy learns to do the same. Eventually, Baba needs to move in with the boy and his parents, and he has the chance to care for her as she's always cared for him. Inspired by memories from poet Jordan Scott's childhood, with beautiful, dreamlike illustrations by award-winning illustrator Sydney Smith, My Baba's Garden is a deeply personal story that evokes universal emotions. Like Scott and Smith's previous collaboration I Talk Like a River, winner of the Boston Globe-Horn Book Award, My Baba's Garden lends wistful appreciation to cherished time with family. A New York Public Library Best Book of the Year A Kirkus Reviews Best Picture Book of the Year A School Library Journal Best Book of the Year A Horn Book Fanfare Book A Booklist Editors' Choice A Junior Library Guild Gold Standard Selection An Evanston Public Library Great Book for Kids
ISBN: 9780823450831Publication Date: 2023-03-07
My Day with Gong Gong by
A day in Chinatown takes an unexpected turn when a bored little girl makes a connection with her grandpa. May isn't having fun on her trip through Chinatown with her grandfather. Gong Gong doesn't speak much English, and May can't understand Chinese. She's hungry, and bored with Gong Gong's errands. Plus, it seems like Gong Gong's friends are making fun of her! But just when May can't take any more, Gong Gong surprises her with a gift that reveals he's been paying more attention than she thought. With lighthearted, expressive illustrations by Elaine Chen, this charming debut expertly captures life in the city and shows how small, shared moments of patience and care--and a dumpling or two--can help a child and grandparent bridge the generational and cultural gaps between them. A glossary at the end of the book features translations of the Chinese words from the story into Chinese characters and English. *A Junior Library Guild Gold Standard Selection
ISBN: 9781773214290Publication Date: 2020-09-08
Ojiichan's Gift by
When Mayumi was born, her grandfather created a garden for her. It was unlike any other garden she knew. It had no flowers or vegetables. Instead, Ojiichan made it out of stones: "big ones, little ones and ones in-between." Every summer, Mayumi visits her grandfather in Japan, and they tend the garden together. Raking the gravel is her favorite part. Afterward, the two of them sit on a bench and enjoy the results of their efforts in happy silence. But then one summer, everything changes. Ojiichan has grown too old to care for his home and the garden. He has to move. Will Mayumi find a way to keep the memory of the garden alive for both of them? This gentle picture book story will warm children's hearts as it explores a deep intergenerational bond and the passing of knowledge from grandparent to grandchild over time. The lyrical text by Chieri Uegaki and luminous watercolor illustrations by Genevieve Simms beautifully capture the emotional arc of the story, from Mayumi's contentment through her anger and disappointment to, finally, her acceptance. The story focuses on an important connection to nature, particularly as a place for quiet reflection. It contains character education lessons on caring, responsibility, perseverance and initiative. It's also a wonderful way to introduce social studies conversations about family, aging and multiculturalism. Mayumi lives in North America with her Japanese mother and Dutch father, and visits her grandfather in Japan. Some Japanese words are included.
ISBN: 9781771389631Publication Date: 2019-04-02
Sunday with Savta by
When Savta arrives for a visit from Israel, her grandson is excited about their upcoming Sunday together. Savta promises him a special gift. What could be better? Instead, they visit a museum filled with paintings of Jewish celebrations. As they walk through the art show, Savta shares stories from her childhood about smelly fish, superhero costumes, and yummy donuts. But the grandson never gets that special gift. Or does he?
ISBN: 9781478870500Publication Date: 2021-11-28
This Is Not My Home by
A humorous and heartfelt reverse immigration story that will resonate across cultures and show us how a place can become home. This is not my backyard barbecue. This is not our car, these are not my fireflies. This is not my farmer's market and... This is not my home. When Lily's mom announces their family must move back to Taiwan to take care of her elderly Ah Ma, Lily is devastated to leave behind her whole life for a place that is most definitely not her home. But Lily soon realizes, through the help of her family and friends, what home means to them. And perhaps someday--maybe not today, but someday--it might become her home too.
ISBN: 9780316377102Publication Date: 2023-01-24
When I Found Grandma by
Maya longs to see her grandmother, but when Grandma arrives from far away for a visit, she is not quite what Maya expected. When Maya's grandma makes a surprise visit from thousands of miles away, Maya is delighted. But her excitement doesn't last long. When Grandma picks her up from school, she wears fancy clothes and talks too loudly. Grandma's morning prayer bells wake Maya up, and she cooks with ingredients Maya doesn't usually eat. Plus, Maya thinks cupcakes taste better than Grandma's homemade sweets. Maya and Grandma try to compromise, and on a special trip to the island Grandma even wears an "all-American" baseball cap. But when Maya rushes off to find the carousel, she loses sight of her mother, father and grandmother. She is alone in a sea of people ... until she spots something bobbing above the crowd, and right away she knows how to find her way. Saumiya Balasubramaniam's story is an insightful and endearing portrayal of a grandparent-grandchild relationship that is evolving and deeply loving, as Maya and Grandma navigate cross-cultural contexts and generational differences. Qin Leng's sweet, evocative illustrations complement the story and illuminate Grandma and Maya's growing closeness. Correlates to the Common Core State Standards in English Language Arts: CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.RL.1.4 Identify words and phrases in stories or poems that suggest feelings or appeal to the senses. CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.RL.1.6 Identify who is telling the story at various points in a text. CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.RL.1.9 Compare and contrast the adventures and experiences of characters in stories. CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.RL.2.3 Describe how characters in a story respond to major events and challenges. CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.RL.2.5 Describe the overall structure of a story, including describing how the beginning introduces the story and the ending concludes the action. CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.RL.2.6 Acknowledge differences in the points of view of characters, including by speaking in a different voice for each character when reading dialogue aloud.
ISBN: 9781773060187Publication Date: 2019-03-01
The Yellow Áo Dài by
Lovingly illustrated by Minnie Phan, Hanh Bui's debut picture book, The Yellow Áo Dài, is a warm story of family, identity, and remembering those who came before. Naliah is excited to perform a traditional Vietnamese Fan Dance at her school's International Day. When she finds that her special áo dài no longer fits right, she goes to her mom's closet to find another. She puts on a pretty yellow one--only to accidentally rip it while practicing her dance. She's horrified to discover that this was a very special áo dài that her grandmother had worn to dance at the Mid-Autumn Festival in Vietnam. But with a little help from her mom's sewing kit and her grandmother's loving legacy, Naliah learns not only how to mend the yellow áo dài but also how to believe in herself and make it her own.
ISBN: 9781250842060Publication Date: 2023-04-25
Death and Grieving Around the World
Life is magnificent and beautiful, but eventually it ends. Explore how different cultures deal with death, grief and funerals and how loved ones live on within us as memories.
Suitability: Grade 2, 3, 4, 5.
Subjects: Cross-Cultural Studies, Social Studies, Physical & Health Education.
8 books.
Dadaji's Paintbrush by
BEST OF THE YEAR Chicago Public Library · School Library Journal · Five Books Carnegie Medal Finalist Once, in a tiny village in India, there was a young boy who loved to paint. He lived with his grandfather, who taught him to paint with his fingers, to make paints from marigolds and brushes made from jasmine flowers. Sometimes, the village children would watch them painting together, and the boy's grandfather would invite them to join in. They didn't have much, but they had each other. After his grandfather dies, the boy notices a little box wrapped in string with a note that read: "From Dadaji, with love," with his grandfather's best paintbrush tucked away inside. But he feels he will never want to paint again. Will the boy overcome his grief and find joy in painting and his dadaji's memory again? A lushly illustrated tale of love, art, and family. P R A I S E ★ "Extraordinary. This book stands out for the depth of its wise messages, and its gentle, evocative art." --School Library Journal (starred) ★ "Perfect for an art class, a read-aloud session at a library or for sharing with a child who has recently lost a loved one." --Shelf-Awareness (starred) "This story of familial love and the special bond between grandparents and grandchildren wraps readers in a tight hug... A gentle, reassuring reminder that love lives on long after death." --Kirkus "A moving tribute to the role of mentors and memory in a young artist's life, as well as to what "time and attention" can bring about." --Publishers Weekly "Explores the pain of losing a grandparent and the quiet joy of coming to see the legacy the person has left." --Wall Street Journal
ISBN: 9781646141722Publication Date: 2022-08-30
Grandma and the Moon's Hidden Secret by
Ãedùké lives with her grandparents in Ibidan and Grandma is her favourite person in the world. She loves when Grandma sings to her, and gives her treats from her stall. But one day, Ãedùké comes home from school and can't find Grandma anywhere! Ãedùké doesn't understand why Grandma can't come back, but then her aunt YÃmiká tells her a secret. Can she really see Grandma if she squints up at the moon?
ISBN: 9781913175351Publication Date: 2022-12-06
Grandmother's Visit by
Grace says goodbye to Grandmother in this touching book about love and loss. Grandmother lives with Grace's family. She teaches her how to measure water for rice. She tells her stories about growing up in China and together they savor the flavors of her childhood. Grandmother says goodbye when she drops Grace off at school every morning and hello when she picks her up at the end of the day. Suddenly, Grandmother stops walking Grace to and from school, and the door to her room stays closed. Father comes home early to make dinner, but the rice bowls stay full. One day, Grandmother's room is empty. And soon after, she is buried. After the funeral, Grace's mom turns on all the outside lights so that Grandmother's spirit can find its way home for one final goodbye. Carmen Mok's gentle illustrations show the love between a child and her grandmother in this story that will resonate with anyone who has lost a loved one. Betty Quan's picture-book debut is haunting yet hopeful. Correlates to the Common Core State Standards in English Language Arts: CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.RL.1.6 Identify who is telling the story at various points in a text. CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.RL.2.1 Ask and answer such questions as who, what, where, when, why, and how to demonstrate understanding of key details in a text. CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.RL.2.3 Describe how characters in a story respond to major events and challenges. CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.RL.2.7 Use information gained from the illustrations and words in a print or digital text to demonstrate understanding of its characters, setting, or plot. CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.RL.3.7 >Explain how specific aspects of a text's illustrations contribute to what is conveyed by the words in a story (e.g., create mood, emphasize aspects of a character or setting) CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.RL.5.2 Determine a theme of a story, drama, or poem from details in the text, including how characters in a story or drama respond to challenges or how the speaker in a poem reflects upon a topic; summarize the text.
ISBN: 9781554989546Publication Date: 2018-09-01
Granny Left Me a Rocket Ship by
From award-winning author Heather Smith, a heartwarming, moving story about loss - and remembering. When Granny dies, a young child and their family have a hole in their hearts. They find it helps them fill it to remember her through the things she left behind. To the father, she left a tuba, and to the mother, a locket. To the sister, she left a microscope, and to the brother, a record collection. To the main character, though, Granny left something different: a world of adventure, that they visit with their memories. Through imaginative play with items that belonged to Granny, the child travels near and far. And Granny is right beside them, along for the ride. Using spare prose, award-winning author Heather Smith's beautiful story about loss, grief and memories presents an honest yet optimistic view of how to joyfully remember loved ones after they're gone. Ashley Barron's layered cut-paper collage illustrations bring fun to the story, while colorfully capturing the feel of a child's imagination in flight. This book provides a gentle, thoughtful entryway into a conversation with children - or adults - about losing a loved one, and how to hold them close. It's a wonderful resource for focusing on social-emotional learning, and an excellent representation for a character education lesson on resilience.
ISBN: 9781525305528Publication Date: 2023-06-06
Hamza Attends a Janaza by
Hamza's usual fun Saturday is cancelled when his family receives the sad news that Uncle Sameer has died. Follow Hamza through the day as he learns about the various aspects of a janaza. This story is a gentle introduction to attending an Islamic funeral, told from a child's perspective. It familiarises children with the etiquettes and some of the rituals surrounding a funeral and provides an opportunity for important discussions around death and the afterlife in an age-appropriate manner.
ISBN: 9780860378938Publication Date: 2023-08-22
My Nana's Garden by
A lyrical, stunningly illustrated book about love, loss, and the healing power of nature My nana's garden is tangled with weeds. "Wildflowers," says Nana, "food for the bees." A little girl visits her grandmother in summer and winter, and together they explore the wonders of her garden. Until, one day, Nana isn't there anymore. But as winter gives way to spring, the girl learns that life goes on, and so does the memory of those we love.
ISBN: 9781536217117Publication Date: 2021-03-23
Sitting Shiva by
A little girl grieves the loss of her mother, but she can't grieve alone. When her friends and family arrive at her house to sit shiva, laden with cakes and stories, she refuses to come downstairs. But the laughter and memories gradually bring her into the fold, where she is comforted by her community. By the end of the book, she feels stronger and more nourished, and she understands the beautiful tradition. Then, when sees her father sitting alone, she is able to comfort him in his time of need. Sitting Shivais a beautiful, heartfelt story about grief and loss, but also about comfort and community. It shows that no matter what religion you practice, we are all more similar than we are different. A note from the author explains the ritual of sitting shiva, a seven-day period of mourning for the death of a family member observed in Jewish homes.
ISBN: 9781459827721Publication Date: 2022-05-17
The Sour Cherry Tree by
A heartwarming look at love, loss, and memorable objects through the eyes of a child by critically-acclaimed creators Naseem Hrab and Nahid Kazemi "Deeply evocative ... A beautifully poignant celebration of memories of a loved one that live on in those that remain." -- Kirkus Reviews - STARRED REVIEW After her grandfather's death, a young girl wanders through his house. As she tours each room, the objects she discovers stir memories of her grandfather--her baba bozorg. His closet full of clothes reminds her of the mints he kept in his pockets. His favorite teacup conjures thoughts of the fig cookies he would offer her. The curtains in the living room bring up memories of hide-and-seek games and the special relationship that she and her baba bozorg shared, even though they spoke different languages. The Sour Cherry Treeis an authentic look at death and loss centred on the experiences of a child, both strikingly whimsical and matter-of-fact. Drawing on the Iranian-Canadian author's childhood memories, this tender meditation on grief, love, and memory is at once culturally specific and universally relatable.
ISBN: 9781771474146Publication Date: 2021-10-15
Music and Dance Around the World
Learn about how music, dance and culture intertwine with this kit. Explore cultures around the world and how music and dance is important. From violins to spoken beats, music will move your feet!
Suitability: Grade 2, 3, 4, 5.
Subjects: Cross-Cultural Studies, Social Studies, Fine Arts.
9 books.
Bharatanatyam in Ballet Shoes by
"A necessary tool for helping children understand and develop cultural competency and compassion early on." --School Library Journal A girl explores her love of dancing and her cultural identity in a lively picture book with echoes of the real-life collaboration between Bharatanatyam icon Rukmini Devi Arundale and ballerina Anna Pavlova. Paro comes from a dancing family. At home, she dances Bharatanatyam with her mom, and now she's excited to learn ballet. But what if she can't dance like the other kids in her class? Ballerinas move like fairies, while Bharatanatyam dancers seem like queens. Paro can't be both...can she? Anu Chouhan's vibrant, energetic illustrations emphasize themes of creative flexibility and navigating the intersections of different cultural identities. The book's backmatter includes an author's note describing the inspiration behind the story, (the real-life meeting and collaboration of Bharatanatyam dancer Rukmini Devi and ballerina Anna Pavlova), a DIY ghungroo (ankle bell) activity, and a pronunciation and etymology guide.
ISBN: 9781773216157Publication Date: 2022-03-29
Jam, Too? by
Lustrous illustrations and a rhythmic text featuring a cumulative list of sounds bring to life the thrill of an impromptu jam session and the joy of making music together. A drum circle is forming on the beach, and one fascinated child would love to join in. Soon there's everything from a conga's pat-a-pat-a, pat pat to some bongos' taka taka, ta ta--and it looks like so much fun! But what do you do when you don't have a drum? Well, when you let the music move you, you just might find other ways to jam, too!
ISBN: 9780593323762Publication Date: 2024-02-27
Malaika, Carnival Queen by
Malaika learns about her father, who came to Canada as a migrant farm worker when she was just a baby and who shared her love of carnival. Malaika dreams about a man with a basket of fruit and guesses that the dream is about her father. Mummy explains that her daddy passed away long ago, and Grandma decides it's time Malaika knew more about her father's life. The family drives to a far-off farm where they receive a warm welcome and visit the orchard where Malaika's father picked fruit. The farm workers tell Malaika that her daddy had always dreamed of celebrating carnival there, just like back home. Will Malaika agree to be their Carnival Queen for the harvest festival? Nadia L. Hohn and Irene Luxbacher have created another compelling story about Malaika, who finds a way to cope with her sadness about her father through their shared love of carnival. Includes an author's note. Key Text Features dialogue glossary illustrations vignettes Correlates to the Common Core State Standards in English Language Arts: CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.RL.K.6 With prompting and support, name the author and illustrator of a story and define the role of each in telling the story. CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.RL.K.7 With prompting and support, describe the relationship between illustrations and the story in which they appear (e.g., what moment in a story an illustration depicts). CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.RL.1.1 Ask and answer questions about key details in a text.
ISBN: 9781773068503Publication Date: 2023-05-02
Sangeet and the Missing Beat by
Sangeet loves music, and she's good at composing it, too. Her favourite instrument is the tabla. One day, Sangeet hears all kinds of noises everywhere and together, they have the most incredible beat. But when she tries to play it on her tabla--something is missing! Will Sangeet be able to find her Missing Beat?
ISBN: 9781989996058Publication Date: 2022-03-15
We Belong to the Drum by
The drum represents the heartbeat of Mother Earth. We all belong to the earth and we all belong to the drum. Nikosis grew up going to powwows with his family, happily immersed in music, dance and the sounds of the drum. But when he starts going to daycare, he doesn't feel like he belongs. Nikosis cries every time his mother leaves him in the unfamiliar environment until, one day, she and the teachers use drums to help Nikosis find connection and comfort. Inspired by her son's experience--and her family's love of powwow music and dance--Indigenous educator and champion hoop dancer Sandra Lamouche shares this uplifting true story of the transformative effects of culturally safe and inclusive early childhood education.
ISBN: 9781459834354Publication Date: 2023-05-16
Welcome to the Cypher by
"WELCOME TO THE CYPHER is a delight to read--a story that will move every part of you to a wild and wonderful beat." --Jael Richardson, Author and Executive Director, The Festival of Literary Diversity "WELCOME TO THE CYPHER is a beautiful, rhythmic exploration of the joy of language and self-expression. Our whole family loved how the bright illustrations and the bold words pulled us through this gorgeous book ...We're HUGE fans!" --Bestselling authors, Alice Kuipers (the Polly Diamond series) & Yann Martel (Life of Pi) Words burn bright in this joyful celebration of rap, creativity, and self-expression. "Welcome to the cypher! Now huddle up nice and snug. You feel that circle around you? Well, that's a hip hop hug!" Starting with beatboxes and fingersnaps, an exuberant narrator introduces kids in his community to the powerful possibilities of rap, from turning "a simple phrase/into imagery that soars" to proclaiming, "this is a voice that represents me!" As Khodi Dill's rhymes heat up, the diverse crew of kids--illustrated in Awuradwoa Afful's bold, energetic style--gain self-confidence and a sense of freedom in this wonderful picture book debut that is perfect for reading aloud.
ISBN: 9781773215631Publication Date: 2021-11-30
When Rubin Plays by
From the PW Flying Starts creative force Gracey Zhang comes a touching and beautiful story about community, finding your own voice, doing what you love the most, and expressing your passion with FORTE! Rubin loves the beautiful sounds that are played by the orchestra. He wants to learn to play the violin and make his own music. But when Rubin plays, it doesn't sound like he imagines it should. Rubin goes into the forest to practice alone and despite only getting the violin to screech, he finds an unlikely audience that loves his unique style. In another inspiring and lyrical picture book that deftly dives into the psyche and heart of a child's viewpoint and experience, the creator of Lala's Words, Gracey Zhang, offers confidence to everyone who longs to master something that can be difficult and shows that there is only one way to do something right: that is to do it your own special way. This is the next book from one of today's most gifted young creators. Zhang is a Publishers Weekly's Spring 2021 Children's Flying Starts creator and her debut, Lala's Words, was the 2022 EJK Award Winner, with endless praise: "Little Lala helps the weeds in the vacant lot blossom into full, gorgeous plants just by talking to them and showing them a little love. This picture book is breathtaking, and Zhang's use of color really helps the story come alive. It's like a modern inverse of The Giving Tree." -- Paul Swydan, The Silver Unicorn Bookstore
ISBN: 9781338648263Publication Date: 2023-07-18- The Yellow Áo Dài by
Lovingly illustrated by Minnie Phan, Hanh Bui's debut picture book, The Yellow Áo Dài, is a warm story of family, identity, and remembering those who came before. Naliah is excited to perform a traditional Vietnamese Fan Dance at her school's International Day. When she finds that her special áo dài no longer fits right, she goes to her mom's closet to find another. She puts on a pretty yellow one--only to accidentally rip it while practicing her dance. She's horrified to discover that this was a very special áo dài that her grandmother had worn to dance at the Mid-Autumn Festival in Vietnam. But with a little help from her mom's sewing kit and her grandmother's loving legacy, Naliah learns not only how to mend the yellow áo dài but also how to believe in herself and make it her own.
ISBN: 9781250842060Publication Date: 2023-04-25
Spirituality and Culture Around the World
Spirituality and culture go hand in hand, representing the traditions that bring us closer together with those who came before us and the world around us. Different cultures have different ways of showing and appreciating life from meditation to special clothing. This kit looks at what things connect us.
Suitability: Grade 2, 3, 4, 5.
Subjects: Cross-Cultural Studies, Social Studies.
9 books.
- Be a Good Ancestor by
Rooted in Indigenous teachings, this stunning picture book encourages readers of all ages to consider the ways in which they live in connection to the world around them and to think deeply about their behaviors. Addressing environmental issues, animal welfare, self-esteem and self-respect, and the importance of community, the authors deliver a poignant and universal message in an accessible way: Be a good ancestor to the world around you. Thought-provoking stanzas offer a call to action for each one of us to consider how we affect future generations. Every decision we make ripples out, and we can affect the world around us by thinking deeply about those decisions.
ISBN: 9781459831407Publication Date: 2022-05-17
Bracelets for Bina's Brothers by
Celebrate diversity, math, and the power of storytelling! For the Hindu holiday of Raksha Bandhan, Bina is determined to make beaded bracelets for her brothers all by herself. She finds out which colors her brothers like and dislike and sets to work. Working with her every-other-one beading pattern causes Bina to discover something new about patterns--and her brothers. Storytelling Math celebrates children using math in their daily adventures as they play, build, and discover the world around them. Joyful stories and hands-on activities make it easy for kids and their grown-ups to explore everyday math together. Developed in collaboration with math experts at STEM education nonprofit TERC, under a grant from the Heising-Simons Foundation.
ISBN: 9781623541293Publication Date: 2021-04-20
A Dance Through the Seasons by
Readers of all ages will admire Young Woman as she endures and learns from each of the four seasons. Like Young Woman, we all have something to learn when we recognise and trust in our guides.
While the adults struggle with an important decision about the future of their community, Young Woman is gifted the solution in a dream. However, the adults don't recognise the wisdom in Young Woman. Discouraged, she begins a year-long journey towards self-discovery and resilience. With Turtle as her guide, they move through the seasons using traditional practices of the Dakelh (Carrier) people. A year later, Young Woman returns with more confidence than ever, but will the adults allow her to determine their future?
ISBN: 9781777894740Publication Date: 2021-12-01- Hamza Attends a Janaza by
Hamza's usual fun Saturday is cancelled when his family receives the sad news that Uncle Sameer has died. Follow Hamza through the day as he learns about the various aspects of a janaza. This story is a gentle introduction to attending an Islamic funeral, told from a child's perspective. It familiarises children with the etiquettes and some of the rituals surrounding a funeral and provides an opportunity for important discussions around death and the afterlife in an age-appropriate manner.
ISBN: 9780860378938Publication Date: 2023-08-22
Naming Ceremony by
Today's the day! It's Baby Sister's naming ceremony, and big sister Amira could not be more excited. She has the perfect name picked out . . . or, at least, she hopes it's the perfect name.
ISBN: 9781419756269Publication Date: 2023-04-11- Ojiichan's Gift by
When Mayumi was born, her grandfather created a garden for her. It was unlike any other garden she knew. It had no flowers or vegetables. Instead, Ojiichan made it out of stones: "big ones, little ones and ones in-between." Every summer, Mayumi visits her grandfather in Japan, and they tend the garden together. Raking the gravel is her favorite part. Afterward, the two of them sit on a bench and enjoy the results of their efforts in happy silence. But then one summer, everything changes. Ojiichan has grown too old to care for his home and the garden. He has to move. Will Mayumi find a way to keep the memory of the garden alive for both of them? This gentle picture book story will warm children's hearts as it explores a deep intergenerational bond and the passing of knowledge from grandparent to grandchild over time. The lyrical text by Chieri Uegaki and luminous watercolor illustrations by Genevieve Simms beautifully capture the emotional arc of the story, from Mayumi's contentment through her anger and disappointment to, finally, her acceptance. The story focuses on an important connection to nature, particularly as a place for quiet reflection. It contains character education lessons on caring, responsibility, perseverance and initiative. It's also a wonderful way to introduce social studies conversations about family, aging and multiculturalism. Mayumi lives in North America with her Japanese mother and Dutch father, and visits her grandfather in Japan. Some Japanese words are included.
ISBN: 9781771389631Publication Date: 2019-04-02
The Purim Panic by
Can Ruby find her special ring in time for the Purim celebration? Ruby loves making hamantaschen with her family and dressing up in her Queen Esther costume on Purim. But as she gets ready for this year's celebration, she realizes she's lost the special ring Bubbe gave her for Hanukkah. Will her relatives be able to help her find it?
ISBN: 9780807571804Publication Date: 2023-01-26
Salat in Secret by
From the critically acclaimed author of Your Name Is a Song and the bestselling illustrator of The Proudest Blue comes a story about a Muslim boy who receives a salat (prayer) rug on his seventh birthday and becomes empowered about his faith. In this beautiful story of community, family, and acceptance, a boy named Muhammad receives a special salat rug on his seventh birthday. Seven is the age when Muslim children are encouraged to pray, and Muhammad is determined to do all five daily prayers on time. But one salat occurs during the school day--and he's worried about being seen praying at school. His father parks his truck to worship in public places, and people stare at and mock him. Will the same thing happen to Muhammad? In the end, with help from his teacher, he finds the perfect place to pray. Salat in Secret, by two highly acclaimed Muslim creators, is a poignant and empowering look at an important facet of Islam that many observant children cherish but might be scared to share.
ISBN: 9781984848093Publication Date: 2023-06-06
What Color Is My Patka? by
Ricky is a Sikh boy, who wears a patka, a head covering that protects his uncut hair. In What Color is My Patka? Ricky teaches the reader all about Sikhism, and asks the reader to join in the fun of helping him pick out a different colored patka for each day of the week.
ISBN: 9781223186375Publication Date: 2023-03-07
