Happy Holidays!!!
The Year of the Perfect Christmas Tree: An Appalachian Story
Grades K-5
Gloria Houston
I love this quiet story about a small town and a little girl waiting for her absent father who has been away during World War I. It is also a timely book for children who’s parents are in Iraq and may not be home for the holidays. Barbara Cooney’s illustrations set just the right tone.
Herschel and the Hanukkah Goblins
Grades K-6
Eric A. Kimmel
I am always drawn to Trina Schart Hyman’s illustrations, and her wonderful use of light and dark in this Holiday trickster tale really accentuates the story. This is a fun read.
Too Many Tamales
Grades K-4
Gary Soto
This fun story shows some different holiday traditions and gives an outlet to talk about what foods we associate with different holidays and cultures. It also has the comic element of the kids eating the whole plate of tamales in order to hide their mistake.
Papa’s Latkes
Grades K-6
Michelle Edwards
I was really touched by this story. LIke The Year of the Perfect Christmas Tree, there is the pain of celebrating a holiday without a loved one, and also the discovery of how the family can create new traditions that honor the family that was before and still allow the holiday to go on. Another great food tie-in as well.
