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Multicultural Children's Books for ages 5 to 10, featuring Hispanic or Hispanic American children and families

Maya's grandmother made her a special blanket to protect her from bad dreams. As Maya grows, the blanket is made into smaller and smaller items, from a dress to a bookmark. Each item has a special meaning for Maya and helps her in some way. When she loses the bookmark, she creates a book about all the items which she eventually shares with her own daughter. Inspired by a traditional Yiddish folk song and infused with Latino elements, Maya's Blanket is a heartfelt story about family ties and creativity, enhanced by rich mixed-media illustrations. Includes glossary of Spanish words.

A Chair for my Mother tells the story of little Rosa who - together with her mother and grandmother - saves up coins to buy a comfortable chair after the family home was destroyed by a fire. This award-winning picture book with its expressive water colour paintings beautifully depicts a loving family who keeps up a joyful spirit in the face of adversity.

All books of the Rosa series: Something Special for Me // Music, Music for Everyone // A Chair for Always

Based on the Mayan belief that the future is determined and cannot be changed, this is a story about a young ballplayer who challenges the Rain God in order to prevent disaster for his people. With extraordinary cut-paper illustrations, Rain Player is an unusual picture book that teaches young children about the ancient Mayan culture.

Little Ana is thrilled when the travelling librarian returns to her village on his trusted mules, Alfa and Beto. Inspired by real-life librarian Luis Soriano, Waiting for the Biblioburro introduces children to the concept of mobile libraries that bring literacy to rural Colombia. The colourful folk-style illustrations perfectly match this beautiful celebration of books and reading.

More books celebrating books and reading: 15 Multicultural Children's Books celebrating books & reading

A young Guatemalan girl learns the art of weaving from her grandmother. The whole family depends on the income earned by selling the products at the local maket. Award-winning Abuela's Weave is an authentic story about life in a small community in Latin America, beautifully complemented by the rich acrylic paintings in earthy tones with splashes of colour.

More books about grandparents: 40+ Multicultural Children's Books about Grandparents

No list of Hispanic multicultural children's books complete without a book about famous Mexican painter Frida Kahlo! This striking picture book tells the story of Frida's life in simple words and with gorgeous acrylic paintings full of Mexican folk art icons (monkeys, devils, smiling skeletons). Frida is the companion book to Winter's acclaimed Diego , an equally stunnig book about Frida's artist husband Diego Rivera.

Following her best-selling Family Pictures, Garza's In My Family is another tribute to her Mexican American family and the culture that shaped her life. Like flipping through a family photo album, this warm, personal book gives a lovely insight into Mexican culture and family life. All children will love studying the detailled scenes displayed in the vibrant paintings.
Family Pictures: Family Pictures/Cuadros de Familia
On Saturdays, a little girl visits her European-American grandparents, and on Sundays ( domingos) she spends the day with her Mexican-American a buelito y abuelita. She goes to the circus with one set of grandparents, to the sea with the other and celebrates her birthday with both of them. While their cultures may be different, they all have in common that they love their granddaughter dearly. I love Saturdays y domingos is a light-hearted celebration of two different cultures.

More books about multiracial families: 50+ Picture Books about Mixed Race Families

In this award-winning picture book a young rabbit awaits the return of his papa who went to find work in the great carrot and lettuce fields. Little Pancho decides to go and look for him and is offered help by a coyote in exchange for his food. But when the food is gone, the coyote is still hungry... Pancho Rabbit and the Coyote is a suspenseful and empathetic story about the hardships of illegal immigrants seeking a better life for their families. With folk-art illustrations and poignant text full of emotion, this stunning allegorical book is a must-read for children of all ethnicities.

More books about immigration: 30 Multicultural Picture Books about Immigration

Little Marisol is like a Hispanic American version of Pippi Longstocking - a spunky and fun-loving little girl who doesn't let anyone put her into a box. Marisol does things the way she likes, from wearing polka dots with stripes to being a soccer playing pirate princess. When she gets teased it does get her down, but she stays true to herself nonetheless. Bouncy prose and appealing acrylic illustrations make bilingual Marisol McDonald doesn't match a fun, confidence-boosting read.

Anita's mama sings songs so beautiful they create magic: Whoever hears them starts floating high above the ground. When one day Mama stops singing, Anita tries to find a way to bring back the happiness and the magic of her songs. Floating on Mama's Song is a lyrical tale about three generations of women, stunningly illustrated with Morales' expressive artwork.

More books about mothers: 14 Multicultural Children's Books about Mothers

*You can buy any of the books on this site from Amazon USA, CAN or UK by clicking on the book titles or covers*

More books with Hispanic or Hispanic American characters:
Hispanic - Babies & Toddlers Hispanic - Preschool Hispanic - Middle School Hispanic - High School (YA)

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Hispanic Multicultural Children's Books - Elementary School

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Multicultural Children's Books for ages 5 to 10, featuring Hispanic or Hispanic American children and families Maya's grandmother made her a special blanket to protect her from bad dreams. As Maya grows, the blanket is made into smaller and smaller items, from a dress to a bookmark.

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Asian and Pacific American Heritage month was the idea of former congressional staffer Jeanie Jew who first approached Rep. Frank Horton about the idea of designating a month to recognize Asian Pacific Americans, following the United States' bicentennial celebration in 1976. In June 1977, Horton and Rep. Norman Y. Mineta, introduced a resolution in the U.S. House of Representatives to proclaim the first 10 days of May as Asian Pacific Heritage Week. A month later, a similar bill was introduced in the Senate by former U.S. Senators Daniel Inouye and Spark Matsunaga.

President Jimmy Carter signed a joint resolution for the celebration on Oct. 5, 1978. In 1990, George H.W. Bush signed a bill passed by Congress to extend Asian American Heritage Week to a month. On May 14, 1991, a public law was passed unanimously by congress and then signed by Bush, proclaiming May 1991 and May 1992 as Asian and Pacific American Heritage Month. By 1992, May was officially designated as Asian Pacific American Heritage Month.

The month of May was chosen because it commemorates the migration of the first immigrants from Japan to the United States on May 7, 1843 and to celebrate the completion of the transcontinental railroad by over 20,0000 Asian immigrants on May 10, 1869. However, the first Asian immigrants arrived in the U.S. in 1587 when Filipinos first began migrating to California. Immigrants continued to come from the Asian continent and the Pacific Islands through 1920 when the first Samoans were documented in Hawaii.

What does AAPI mean?

The acronym AAPI stands for Asian American and Pacific Islander. This acronym has become more commonly used following the Stop AAPI Hate Campaign to raise awareness of the attacks and hate toward the AAPI community since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic. According to the Asian Pacific Institute, this term includes "all people of Asian, Asian American or Pacific Islander ancestry, who trace their origins to the countries, states, jurisdictions and/or the diasporic communities of these geographic regions."

According to Dr. Dawn Lee Tu, faculty director at de Anza College and former director of Asian Pacific American student development at UC Berkeley, she explains that the term "Asian American" was first used by student activists in 1968 to identify Asian groups during a time when Americans would use the derogatory term "oriental" to refer to Asians in the United States.

The U.S. Census Bureau helped evolve the term Asian American into Asian Pacific Islander in the 1980s and early 90s when this is how the organization reported this ethnic group on Census data. And finally, in 1997, the White House Office of Management and Budget made the two terms "Asian" and "Pacific Islander" two separate racial categories.

Where are Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders from?

The U.S. Census Bureau classifies people of Asian descent as "having origins in any of the original peoples of the Far East, Southeast Asia, or the Indian subcontinent," including, but not limited to China, Japan, Thailand, Malaysia, Korea, India, Cambodia, Vietnam or the Philippines.

Pacific Islanders are people who descended from the islands of Polynesia, Micronesia, and Melanesia. This classification includes, but is not limited to people from Native Hawaii, Samoa, Tahiti, Guam, Fiji, and Papua New Guinea.

The following is a list of commonly used Asian American and Pacific Islander-related terms. While these terms may commonly be used, it is important to note there is a possibility some cultural identities can overlap in this larger classification of AAPI individuals.

AAPI: Asian American and Pacific Islander. This term generally includes all people of Asian, Asian American or Pacific Islander descent.

Asian: A person having origins in any of the original peoples of the Far East, Southeast Asia or the Indian subcontinent.

East Asian: A person of Chinese, Taiwanese, Japanese, Korean and Mongolian descent.

South Asian: A person of Indian, Bangladesh, Sri Lankan, Nepal and Pakistani backgrounds.

Southeast Asian: A person of Filipino, Cambodian, Vietnamese, Lao, Indonesian, Thai or Singaporean descent.

Central Asian: A person with origins in the original peoples of Kazakhstan, Kyrgyz Republic, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan.

Pacific Islander: A person with origins in the original peoples of Polynesia, Micronesia and Melanesia.

West Asian: A person with origins in the original peoples of Armenia, Azerbaijan, Bahrain, Cyprus, Georgia, Iraq, Israel, Jordan, Kuwait, Lebanon, Oman, Palestine, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Syria, Turkey, United Arab Emirates and Yemen.

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The History of Asian Pacific American Heritage Month - Arlington Public Schools

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The History of Asian and Pacific American Heritage Month Asian and Pacific American Heritage month was the idea of former congressional staffer Jeanie Jew who first approached Rep. Frank Horton about the idea of designating a month to recognize Asian Pacific Americans, following the United States' bicentennial celebration in 1976.

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History of Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month

The rich history and heritage of Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders is thousands of years old and is integral to the shaping of the history of the United States. Formerly known as Asian-Pacific American Heritage Month, the celebration was officially renamed Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month in 2009. The month-long observance recognizes the influence and contributions of Asian Americans and Pacific Islander Americans to the achievements and culture of the United States.

The first documented arrival of Asians in America was in 1587 when Filipinos arrived in California. Additionally, evidence suggests that the first Japanese individual to arrive in North America was a young boy in October 1587. It's believed he accompanied a Franciscan friar.

The first Chinese arrived in Hawaii in 1778. The first Koreans landed in the States in 1884. The first Samoans in the United States were documented in 1920 in Hawaii and the first Vietnamese in 1912.

In the 1970s, a former congressional staffer, Jeanie Jew, proposed the idea of celebrating Asian Pacific Americans to Representative Frank Horton. In June 1977, a United States House of Representatives resolution was introduced by Horton and Norman Y. Mineta, proclaiming the first 10 days of May as Asian-Pacific Heritage Week. A month later, a similar bill was introduced in the Senate.

President Jimmy Carter made the then-week-long celebration official when he signed a joint resolution on October 5, 1978. In 1990, Asian-Pacific Heritage Week was extended to a month when George H.W. Bush signed a bill passed by Congress, designating May as Asian-Pacific American Heritage Month.

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Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month - May

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The rich history and heritage of Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders is thousands of years old and is integral to the shaping of the history of the United States. Formerly known as Asian-Pacific American Heritage Month, the celebration was officially renamed Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month in 2009.

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Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month (AAPI Heritage Month) is an annual celebration that recognizes the historical and cultural contributions of individuals and groups of Asian and Pacific Islander descent to the United States. The AAPI umbrella term includes cultures from the entire Asian continent—including East, Southeast and South Asia—and the Pacific Islands of Melanesia, Micronesia and Polynesia. As of 2019, there were about 22.9 million people of Asian or Pacific Islander descent in the United States. According to the Pew Research Center, AAPI people are a diverse and growing population that make up about 7 percent of the total U.S. population. AAPI Heritage Month 2022 will take place from Sunday, May 1 to Tuesday, May 31.

Origins of AAPI Heritage Month

The effort to officially recognize Asian American and Pacific Islander contributions to the United States began in the late 1970s, and took over 10 years to make it a permanent month-long celebration.

In 1977, New York representative Frank Horton introduced House Joint Resolution 540, which proposed proclaiming the first 10 days of May as Asian/Pacific American Heritage Week. Hawaii Senator Daniel Inouye introduced a similar joint resolution the same year. When the resolutions did not pass, representative Horton introduced House Joint Resolution 1007 the following year, which requested the president to proclaim a week during the first 10 days of May starting in 1979, including May 7 and 10, as Asian/Pacific American Heritage Week.

After the House and the Senate passed the Resolution, President Jimmy Carter signed it into Public Law 95-419 on October 5, 1978. From 1980 to 1990, each president passed annual proclamations for Asian/Pacific American Heritage Week. In 1990, Congress expanded the observance from a week to a month. May was annually designated as Asian/Pacific American Heritage Month in 1992 under the George H. W. Bush administration with the passing of Public Law 102-540. Asian/Pacific American Heritage Month was renamed as AAPI Heritage Month in 2009.

Why Do We Celebrate AAPI Heritage Month?

Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders have contributed significantly to many facets of American culture and society, including science and medicine, literature and art, sports and recreation, government and politics, and activism and law. In 2021, Kamala Harris became the first Asian American Vice President of the United States. In film history, AAPI people, stories, and traditions have become more visible with South Korean director Bong Joon Ho’s Parasite winning the Academy Award for Best Picture in 2019 and the release of Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings in 2021, debuting Marvel’s first Asian superhero.

AAPI people have a long history in the United States, despite the stereotype that they are “perpetual foreigners,” the idea that Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders are inherently foreign, other and not truly American. According to the Bering Land Bridge Theory, Asians first migrated to what is now known as North America over 15,000 years ago through a land bridge between Asia and North America. In the 16th century, Filipinos who were escaping forced labor and enslavement during the Spanish galleon trade immigrated to North America, eventually establishing a settlement in St. Malo, Louisiana in 1763. During the California Gold Rush of the 1850s, a wave of Asian immigrants came to the West Coast and provided labor for gold mines, factories and the transcontinental railroad. In 1882, Congress enacted the Chinese Exclusion Act, which banned Chinese immigration for 20 years.

Japanese and Koreans began immigrating to the United States by 1885 to replace Chinese labor in railroad construction, farming and fishing. However, in 1907, Japanese immigration was restricted by a “Gentlemen’s Agreement” between the United States and Japan. The civil rights movement assisted the liberalization of immigration laws. The 1965 Immigration and Nationality Act changed restrictive national origin quotas and allowed for the large numbers of Asians and Pacific Islanders to come to the United States with their families. In the mid-1970s, refugees from Southeast Asia like Vietnam, Cambodia, and Laos came to the United States to flee war, violence, and hardship.

Today, Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders are the fastest growing racial group in the United States. AAPI Heritage Month celebrates the unique journey of all AAPI immigrants and citizens in the United States and their unique life experiences, traditions and cultures

Scroll to Continue

Anti-Asian Racism

Since their immigration to the United States, Asians have been met with xenophobia, racism, bias and violence. Chinese workers were abused, robbed and murdered in San Francisco in the 1850s. In 1854, the California Supreme Court ruled in People v. Hall that people of Asian descent could not testify against a white person in court, meaning that white people could avoid punishment for anti-Asian crimes.

During World War II, from 1942-1945, people of Japanese descent were incarcerated in internment camps across the nation. In 1982, Chinese American Vincent Chin was murdered by two white men in Detroit because they believed Asians were taking auto industry jobs from whites. In March 2021, a man shot and murdered six women of Asian descent at three spas in the Atlanta area.

At the beginning of the Covid-19 pandemic, racist and xenophobic rhetoric about the origins of the virus led to a spike in anti-Asian racism and violence, with AAPI people of all ages and cultures being verbally and physically harassed and murdered in cities across the United States. As a response to the rise in anti-Asian violence, the AAPI Equity Alliance, Chinese for Affirmative Action, and the Asian American Studies Department of San Francisco State University launched the Stop AAPI Hate coalition on March 19, 2020. The coalition tracks and responds to violence, hate, harassment, discrimination, shunning and bullying of AAPI people.

In January 2021, the White House released a “Memorandum Condemning and Combating Racism, Xenophobia, and Intolerance Against Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders in the United States,” acknowledging their role in furthering xenophobic sentiments and proposing ways to prevent discrimination, harassment, bullying, and hate crimes against AAPI individuals.

AAPI Heritage Month 2022 commemorates the victims of the 2021 spa shootings along with all other Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders who have been lost to anti-Asian violence during the pandemic and throughout history.

AAPI Month 2022 Theme

According to the Federal Asian Pacific American Council (FAPAC), the theme for AAPI Heritage Month 2022 is “Advancing Leaders Through Collaboration.” The FAPAC encourages local and national governments to prioritize collaboration, development, diversity, transparency, and inclusion through leadership training of AAPI people.

Why the Date of AAPI Heritage Month is Significant

The month of May was chosen for AAPI Heritage Month because it commemorates the immigration of the first Japanese people to the United States on May 7, 1843. May is also a significant month because it recognizes Golden Spike Day, May 10, 1869, which marks the completion of the transcontinental railroad that was built with significant contributions from Chinese workers.

- by Minhae Shim Roth

Sources

Asian/Pacific Heritage Month, Library of Congress and the National Archives and Records Administration.
Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month, May 1, 2021, U.S. Department of State.
Asian Pacific American Center, Smithsonian.
Asian Americans Then and Now - Linking Past to Present, Asia Society.
"The long, ugly history of anti-Asian racism and violence in the U.S." by Gillian Brockell, March 18, 2021, Washington Post.
Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month: May 2021, U.S. Census Bureau.

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Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month

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Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month (AAPI Heritage Month) is an annual celebration that recognizes the historical and cultural contributions of

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May marks Asian Pacific American Heritage Month, which celebrates the histories of Americans hailing from across the Asian continent and from the Pacific islands of Melanesia, Micronesia and Polynesia.

This year's theme, selected by the Federal Asian Pacific American Council, is "Advancing Leaders Through Opportunity," which builds on a leadership advancement theme series that began in 2021.

Cynthia Choi, co-executive director of Chinese for Affirmative Action and co-founder of Stop AAPI Hate says the month is a time to speak out, share stories and debunk myths about Asian communities, she said. But it's not the only time to celebrate Asian culture or diversity.

"Our history is also filled with incredible stories of resilience, of persistence, of determination, to fight for our basic rights," Choi told NPR. "This is a celebration of our history, of our culture ... and all the different ways in which our community has really demonstrated that we're not only here to stay, we are a part of this fabric - a part of this country."

Before it was a month, it was a week

The month was the brainchild of Jeanie Jew, a former Capitol Hill staffer, who shared the idea with Rep. Frank Horton, who introduced the legislation that formed it.

Jew's great grandfather, M.Y. Lee, left China for the United States in the 1800s before he helped build the transcontinental railroad, according to . Lee became a prominent businessman in California and later traveled to Oregon. He was killed during a period of unrest and anti-Asian sentiment.

"Mrs. Jew turned a personal tragedy in her family history into a positive force," Horton later told Congress in 1992.

In 1977, Horton introduced a resolution that would establish Pacific/Asian American Heritage Week. Sen. Daniel Inouye introduced similar legislation to the Senate.

In the following year, Horton, with cosponsor Rep. Norman Mineta, introduced another related resolution that passed. President Jimmy Carter signed it in October of 1978.

The resolution "authorized and requested" the president to proclaim the 7-day period beginning May 4, 1979 as Asian Pacific American Heritage Week. It also called on Americans, and especially educators, to observe the week with "appropriate ceremonies and activities."

Congress later passed legislation to extend the observance to a month in 1990. Two years later, Congress passed another public law to annually designate May as Asian Pacific American Heritage Month.

Why May was chosen to commemorate AAPI heritage

The legislation to annually designate May as Asian Pacific American Heritage Month referenced two key dates: May 7 and May 10.

May 7, 1843, marks the arrival of the first Japanese immigrants to the United States. And May 10, 1869, or Golden Spike Day, recognizes the completion of the first transcontinental railroad in the U.S., which had significant contributions from Chinese workers.

The railroad stretched from the West Coast to the East Coast, and 15,000 to 20,000 Chinese immigrants were a major part of its construction, according to History.com. Initially, construction superintendent James Strobridge deemed the immigrants unfit for the job. But the railroad needed workers, and many white people weren't interested.

Conditions were brutal in the Sierra Nevada, and Chinese workers weren't receiving the same pay as their white counterparts, according to the Chinese Railroad Workers in North America Project. Unlike white workers, Chinese workers had to pay for their own food and had to work longer hours, according to the project.

The railroad was fundamental to the development of the American West, according to History.com. It cut travel time across the U.S. from months to less than a week.

This year's theme: Advancing Leaders Through Opportunity

The Federal Asian Pacific American Council - a nonprofit that supports the interests of Asian Americans, Native Hawaiians and Pacific Islanders in the federal and D.C. governments - selected the theme: Advancing Leaders Through Opportunity.

The theme builds on the Advancing Leaders series, which began in 2021 and will run through 2024. Last year's theme was Advancing Leaders through Collaboration.

"When you have diversity at the leadership table, the magnitude of what you can accomplish is enormous," Fahmida Chhipa, FAPAC's vice president, told NPR. "You really expand yourself in the horizons to have something creative and innovative."

The council says this year's theme "further highlights FAPAC's efforts in advancing leaders in the Federal and DC governments," according to a press release.

Choi also emphasized the importance of collaboration.

"We do need to center the experiences of those who've been disproportionately impacted," she told NPR. "And when government not only listens, but implements the recommendations of communities who are closest to those who are being impacted right now, you get better results."

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The story behind Asian Pacific American Heritage, and why it's celebrated in May

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May marks the beginning of Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month. This year's theme is Advancing Leaders Through Opportunity.

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May is Asian American Pacific Islander Heritage Month, a celebration of the many contributions and achievements of the AAPI community.

Given the vast diversity of the AAPI community, it's important to recognize that the AAPI umbrella is not a monolith.

During May, it's important to give our attention to the concerns and needs of the AAPI community and find long term ways to support them.

Below, you can find resources and ways to uplift the AAPI community nationwide and in your own community!

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5 AAPI Heritage Month Facts To Know

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Activity Ideas For Asian American Pacific Islander Heritage Month

Learn

Watch a documentary about Asian American history.

Asian American history is American history. And a great way to ensure you're well-informed during May is by watching documentaries.

We recommend watching the documentary Asian Americans by PBS; it's a five-episode series on the fastest-growing ethnic group in American history.

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Do your research.

Read this comprehensive list of resources from Stop AAPI Hate. From educational materials to a template you can use to contact your local lawmakers, this list is a great asset for both members and allies of the AAPI community.

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Visit an AAPI museum in your community.

Museums and cultural centers are a great starting point to learn more about AAPI history, especially the local impact and contributions they have made.

Check out this list for some iconic museums around the United States - and also consider searching Google Maps for smaller, local museums in your community.

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Learn the difference between Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders.

Understanding the difference between these two groups is essential when it comes to celebrating AAPIHM. In the 1970s, with fewer immigrants from these regions, it was important to band together. Recent years, however, have seen growing criticism of the usage of this umbrella term - and it's valuable to learn about that conversation as well.

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Listen to podcasts from the AAPI community.

Whether you want to be informed or entertained, there is a podcast out there that you can support. We enjoy and recommend Tim Chantarangsu and David So's YouTube collaborations - and their podcast, Dudes Behind the Foods, doesn't disappoint!

If you're looking for more recommendations, this list is a great starting point.

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Buy books from AAPI-owned bookstores.
By the way, some of the links below may be affiliate links - which means Good Good Good may earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no cost to you!
You can support the AAPI community by shopping from local AAPI-owned bookstores. Check out this list of storefronts to support in California, Colorado, Georgia, Illinois, Michigan, New York, and Oregon.

You can also discover and easily support local AAPI-owned bookstores online via Libro.fm ( via this curated list) or Bookshop.org (by selecting "Asian-American & Pacific Islander-owned Bookstores" from the Filters dropdown of their Store Locator).

Libro.fm and Bookshop.org also happen to be two fantastic Amazon alternatives.

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Read books from AAPI authors.

While you're shopping from AAPI-owned bookstores (or your wonderful local library), you should also support and learn from AAPI authors!

The publishing industry has a diversity problem - but change is possible.

It is important and valuable to boost stories written by AAPI authors, and what better way to demonstrate that you want to keep hearing from these voices and experiences than to financially support them?

Some recommendations include: Minor Feelings by Cathy Park Hong (a collection of essays), Crying in H Mart by Michelle Zauner (a memoir), Pachinko by Min Jin Lee (a novel), and Hawaii's Story by Queen Lili'uokalani (a novel).

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Follow AAPI activists, educators, and leaders on social media.

To support the ongoing efforts to advance AAPI rights, you can follow organizers on social media and bring their mission to your own community.

Some folks to follow include: Amanda Nguyen (founder of Rise, civil rights activist), Jamaica Osorio (author), Ai-jen Poo (domestic workers organizer), Esmé Weijun Wang (author, previously a guest on Sounds Good), Aditi Mayer (social justice digital creator), and me, Sara Li (journalist, and former Good Good Good managing editor).

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Take Action

Learn how to pronounce Asian names.

One of the easiest and most impactful actions you can take is learning how to properly pronounce Asian names.

Constantly mispronouncing an ethnic name can be considered a form of microaggression, especially when our society has no qualms about learning how to say other "difficult" names such as Tchaikovsky, Nietzsche, or Schopenhauer.

If you're not sure, ask! As with most things, people feel valued when you make the effort.

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Donate to support Asian migrant sex workers.

Red Canary Song is a wonderful nonprofit that supports Asian and migrant sex workers. Your donations go a long way to help their efforts to decriminalize this line of work, a necessity when it comes to ensuring labor and anti-trafficking protections, and decreasing deportations.

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Donate to support Hawaiian families who have been displaced because of colonization.

One of the greatest issues Hawaii has struggled with over the years has been the displacement of its Indigenous communities to make room for both the military and the millions of tourists that visit the islands every year. Kahumana Organic Farms is a nonprofit that helps homeless families in Hawaii that have suffered the toll of these industries.

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Shop AAPI-owned businesses.

Just like supporting AAPI authors supports positive industry change, shopping AAPI businesses ensures that the money you are spending gets reinvested in these communities. If you're not sure where to begin, Asian Founded is a fantastic starting point.

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Help stop violence against AAPI communities.

In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, we have seen an alarming growth in anti-Asian sentiment. Taking a bystander awareness course will help you be prepared to assist in de-escalating those situations should you happen to witness them.

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Go to a rally, reading, or in-person event.

One way to show up for the AAPI community is to do exactly that: show up. You can search for local events in your town to see if there are any rallies, protests, or readings that aim to support the AAPI Rights movement. Facebook's events tab and sites like Meetup or Eventbrite are easy ways to find out what is happening near you.

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Provide a meal for AAPI elders.

Heart of Dinner is a New York City-based nonprofit that provides meals to the most vulnerable of the AAPI community: the elders. You can see exactly where and who your support is going towards.

If you live in New York, you can volunteer to pack meals, deliver meals, write notes, or work behind-the-scenes on logistics. If you live anywhere else in the world, you can donate, host a fundraiser or find out if there are similar local efforts you can join.

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At Work

Fight for salary transparency to combat racial and gender pay gaps.

Culturally, we have been taught to not discuss how much we earn. This custom has been widely used as a tool of oppression and, specifically within the AAPI community, it has also contributed to further promoting the "model minority" myth.

It is also important to note that while generally AAPI women face the smallest pay gap, that difference highly varies within the communities covered under that umbrella.

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Check your biases and commit to fighting racial discrimination in the workplace.

Though most studies on hiring discrimination focus on white vs. Black names, it is not hard to infer that this is something that also affects other people of non-white backgrounds.

This, the model minority myth, and other preconceptions still affect most workplaces, so it is important to self-reflect on how you can improve, as well as actively work to prevent those issues from being considered acceptable.

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Create (or join) an Employee Resource Group.

Employee Resource Groups are employee-led volunteer groups created with the intent to foster safe and empowering spaces for employees to express themselves, build community, and seek support at work. Supporting these groups helps attract a more diverse workforce and reduces turnover in the long run.

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For Kids & Students

Support AAPI curriculums in school.

Asian American Pacific Islander history is American history, though not every school district accurately reflects that. You can support the ongoing movement to teach our school children more about AAPI contributions to the country in their classrooms by contacting your local school district and asking them to implement more policies that support and protect these minorities, as well as requesting that more materials made by AAPI creators and educators be featured, taught and discussed.

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Organize or request an AAPI creator speaking event.

Whether offering inviting an invitation to speak on social issues or perhaps to do a stand-up gig, if there is a creator you love, asking your school administrators to organize an event supports their platform, and is a great way to mobilize your community into active participation.

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Teaching children about racism and diversity.

If you have young children, it is particularly important to teach them from an early age about the importance of diversity and how racism still impacts us as a society. A great way to do that is by consuming media that features characters of other races and ethnicities, especially as the leads, or by reading age-appropriate books on the subject.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What month is AAPI Heritage Month?

The month of May was selected to be AAPI Heritage Month because it marks two important events in Asian American history: the arrival of the first known Japanese immigrants in 1843 and the completion of the transcontinental railroad in 1869, which was built by Chinese immigrant workers.

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Why is it especially important to support the AAPI community now?

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, there's been a rise in anti-Asian hate around the world. With the surge in violence against the AAPI community, now is especially important to invest in ways to make sure our AAPI communities feel safe.

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What are some issues the AAPI community faces?

Xenophobia is an institutional barrier that makes it hard for the AAPI community to achieve equality in America. However, resources like language translation services, access to healthcare and education, and bystander awareness help make the lives of Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders in the US easier.

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What is the theme for 2022's Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month?

While rotating themes may be common for many holidays and heritage months all over the planet, in the United States there is not an annual theme for AAPI Heritage Month. In Canada, 2022's theme is "continuing a legacy of greatness".

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What are some hashtags to use for AAPI Heritage Month?

#aapihm

#apihm

#aapiheritagemonth

#aapimonth

#asianlivesmatter

#stopasianhate

#stopaapihate

#justiceforasianwomen

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21 Ideas & Activities To Celebrate AAPI Heritage Month (2023)

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May is Asian American Pacific Islander Heritage Month, a celebration of the many contributions and achievements of the AAPI community. Given the vast diversity of the AAPI community, it's important to recognize that the AAPI umbrella is not a monolith.

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Get familiar with the history of Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders in the US, or join an event to celebrate your heritage during Asian/Pacific Heritage Month.

May is Asian/Pacific American Heritage Month - a celebration of Asians and Pacific Islanders in the United States. A rather broad term, Asian/Pacific encompasses all of the Asian continent and the Pacific islands of Melanesia (New Guinea, New Caledonia, Vanuatu, Fiji and the Solomon Islands), Micronesia (Marianas, Guam, Wake Island, Palau, Marshall Islands, Kiribati, Nauru and the Federated States of Micronesia) and Polynesia (New Zealand, Hawaiian Islands, Rotuma, Midway Islands, Samoa, American Samoa, Tonga, Tuvalu, Cook Islands, French Polynesia and Easter Island).

Like most commemorative months, Asian/Pacific American Heritage Month originated with Congress. In 1977 Reps. Frank Horton of New York introduced House Joint Resolution 540 to proclaim the first ten days in May as Pacific/Asian American Heritage Week.

In the same year, Senator Daniel Inouye introduced a similar resolution, Senate Joint Resolution 72. Neither of these resolutions passed, so in June 1978, Rep. Horton introduced House Joint Resolution 1007. This resolution proposed that the President should "proclaim a week, which is to include the seventh and tenth of the month, during the first ten days in May of 1979 as 'Asian/Pacific American Heritage Week.'"

This joint resolution was passed by the House and then the Senate and was signed by President Jimmy Carter on October 5, 1978 to become Public Law 95-419 (PDF, 158kb). This law amended the original language of the bill and directed the President to issue a proclamation for the "7 day period beginning on May 4, 1979 as 'Asian/Pacific American Heritage Week.'"

During the next decade, presidents passed annual proclamations for Asian/Pacific American Heritage Week until 1990 when Congress passed Public Law 101-283 (PDF, 166kb) which expanded the observance to a month for 1990. Then in 1992, Congress passed Public Law 102-450 (PDF, 285kb) which annually designated May as Asian/Pacific American Heritage Month

The month of May was chosen to commemorate the immigration of the first Japanese to the United States on May 7, 1843, and to mark the anniversary of the completion of the transcontinental railroad on May 10, 1869. The majority of the workers who laid the tracks were Chinese immigrants.

This site presents only a sample of the digital and physical holdings related to Asian/Pacific heritage available from the Library of Congress and other participating agencies.

Executive and Legislative Documents
The Law Library of Congress has compiled guides to commemorative observations, including a comprehensive inventory of the Public Laws, Presidential Proclamations and congressional resolutions related to Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month.

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Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month

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Get familiar with the history of Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders in the US, or join an event to celebrate your heritage during Asian/Pacific Heritage Month. May is Asian/Pacific American Heritage Month - a celebration of Asians and Pacific Islanders in the United States.

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The University of North Carolina at Pembroke

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Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month 2023

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Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month recognizes, celebrates, and increases awareness of the rich history, contributions, and accomplishments of Asian Americans and Pacific Island Americans. While celebrated nationally in May, Asian American and Pacific Islander Month is celebrated in A…

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The book list includes titles on Asian Americans and Asia for children, young adults, and educators.

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Did you know May is Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month? It's an excellent opportunity to dig into the incredible contributions that Asian American and Pacific Islanders have made to the country's culture, history, and progress. Through these 15 children's books, kids can learn about modern-day AAPI heroes, listen to folktales from Asian and Pacific Island countries, and immerse themselves in stories that explore and celebrate a variety of AAPI experiences.
Written by Eva Chen, illustrated by Sophie Diao
proves that a children's book can be much more than a sweet and sleepy story before bedtime. Here, New York Times bestselling author Eva Chen and illustrator Sophie Diao came together to create a joyous tome that not only celebrates the immigrant experience, it also oozes a message of self-love as the narrator lyrically speaks to Mei, a young Chinese girl. The words are just as captivating as the illustrations that lean on family photos and Chinese touchpoints like lotus flowers and majestic dragons. This poignant story about family, history, and belonging is a must-have for all children's bookshelves.
Written by Reem Faruqi, illustrated by Fahmida Azim

Amira is a happy kid who loves Eid, a time-honored Muslim holiday. She gets to wear new clothes, hand out goody bags, and celebrate with her community. The problem? Eid falls on school picture day. How will her friends remember her if she isn't included in her class picture? This sweet, award-winning read is for kids between the ages of 4 and 8 and explores themes of diversity, compassion, and anti-racism.
Written by Hope Lim, illustrated by Il Sung Na

A little boy from South Korea who recently immigrated to America is happy to find that his new yard features a breathtaking plum tree...just like the one from back home. He feels safe under the new tree that he's named Plumee. But when a storm knocks Plumee over, lots of big emotions about the boy's new surroundings come to the surface. This gentle and lovely book all about resilience, hope, and vulnerability is for kids ages 4 to 8 and it explores immigration, self-discovery, and emotional growth.
Written by Darshana Khiani, illustrated by Joanne Lew-Vriethoff
What's a young fashionista to do when her family assumes she's too young to wear a sari? Well, she sets out to dress herself! This utterly charming Amazon Editors' Pick highlights the highs and lows of a wee girl wrestling with a long and cumbersome sari. Can she do it? Will she surprise everyone and waltz into her family's party wearing one of her mother's exceedingly elegant saris? Will her family be impressed? No matter the result, kids will love learning all about this South Asian garment...as well as all the silliness!
Written and illustrated by Sarah Hwang

Written by Linda Meeker, illustrated by Sandra Eide
Toasty is a sweet and silly laugh-out-loud book about a piece of toast that wants to be a dog. Toasty goes on a wild adventure to become a dog, but ends up finding out that being a piece of toast is pretty cool. This self-discovery story was inspired by the author's childhood experience of being a Korean immigrant in America and learning that you can make the best of friends when you just be yourself. Toasty is just-right for children ages 4 to 6.

A book that encourages kiddos to try new foods and be healthy eaters? Sold! But don't worry, Thank You, Mama is anything but a finger-wagging, eat-better book. Instead, it's a gratitude-filled read from TikTok and Instagram stars Grey and Mama (@greyandmama) -Mama being Linda Meeker, a first generation Vietnamese American. As the pair moves through their day, Grey is presented with a wide array of foods to eat, like rice, olives, pancakes, sushi, all while trying to determine which food is his favorite. This lighthearted picture book for 3- to 7-year-olds is sure to please...and get you kiddo tasting new eats in no time!

Written and illustrated by Aram Kim

Written by Shelly Anand, illustrated by Nabi H. Ali
Yoomi and her dad plan the perfect day in Koreatown...except not everything goes as planned. Little Yoomi learns a powerful lesson that self-resilience and an open mind can transform any situation into a positive one. This heartwarming book is geared toward kids ages 3 to 6 and highlights themes of gratitude, self-discovery, and cultural appreciation.

There's so much to love about Shelly Anand's body-positive picture book for 4- to 8-year-olds that tells the story of a young Indian American girl...and her body hair. You see, Laxmi gets teased about her mustache, but with the help of her parents she learns that it's totally normal for hair to grow pretty much everywhere...like on arms, legs, between eyebrows, and yes, above the lip, too. In the end, Laxmi learns to love her mooch and share that love with those around her.

Written and illustrated by Analiza Quiroz Wolf

This story collection of Asian American heroes will surely inspire young readers to do great things. With crisp illustrations and informative descriptions, this all-ages book teaches kids about the incredible contributions from people like Vietnam Memorial architect Maya Lin, Olympian Kristi Yamaguchi, musician Yo-Yo Ma, astronaut Ellison Onizuka, activists Larry Itliong and Philip Vera Cruz, and many more.

Writen by Kao Kalia Yang, illustrated by Khoa Le

Written and illustrated by Yangsook Choi
This beautifully illustrated, award-winning picture book follows the author's childhood experience as a Hmong refugee, taking readers from the jungle of Laos to her early years in America. With compassion and humanity, this lovely book brings to life the refugee experience for kids, teaching them the power of empathy and resilience. A joy to read!

Written by Phuoc Thi Minh Tran, illustrated by Dong Nguyen and Hop Thi Nguyen
The Name Jar tells the story of Unhei, a little girl who just arrived to America from Korea who's worried that she won't fit in because of her hard-to-pronounce name. She tells her classmates that she'll choose an American name and soon a glass jar fills with name suggestions from other kids! But somehow, names like Suzy, Laura, and Amanda simply don't fit. The name she settles on might surprise you! This sweet story-an Amazon Teacher's Pick- is perfect for kids as young as 3.

Another award-winner, Vietnamese Children's Favorite Stories is a richly illustrated collection of 15 classic Vietnamese fairy tales and folk stories, giving readers a charming glimpse into a beautiful literary culture. A sure favorite amongst kids: The Story of Tam and Cam, which is a Vietnamese Cinderella story

Written by Shiho S. Nunes, illustrated by Lak-Khee Tay-Audouard

Great for all ages (even grown-ups!), this dazzling collection of 19 classic Chinese fables comes alive thanks to the engrossing writing and eye-catching illustrations. These tales, which date back to the third century BCE, explore themes of honesty, respect, courage, and self-reliance. It's no wonder Chinese Fables won the 2014 Aesop Prize for Children's and Young Adult Literature!

Written by Norma Olizon-Chikiamco, illustrated by Mark Salvatus

Written by Ilima Loomis, illustrated by Kenard Pak
Pan de Sal is a younggirl who lives in the Philippines and simply feels out of place. She just can't seem to see the value of her strengths and talents. But when an unexpected situation calls for the resourcefulness and skills that only she has, Pan de Sal realizes being different doesn't mean she isn't special. This heartening book for all ages explores themes of self-discovery, cultural diversity, and compassion.

Here, readers are invited to watch as a Hawaiian family farms the kalo plant used in making poi to prepare for a traditional luau celebration. Kids as young as 3 will adore learning about rich native Hawaiian traditions in this poetic and gracefully illustrated book. The lyrical verse and the mesmerizing illustrations that will spark imagination and delight long after the last page is read.

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15 Kids' Books That Celebrate Asian American and Pacific Islander Stories

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Did you know May is Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month? It's an excellent opportunity to dig into the incredible contributions that Asian American and Pacific Islanders have made to the country's culture, history, and progress.

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"A powerful must-read."-Booklist (starred review)

Set in an incarceration camp where the United States cruelly detained Japanese Americans during WWII and based on true events, this moving love story finds hope in heartbreak.

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Picture Books by Asian American and Pacific Islander Authors & Illustrators

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"A powerful must-read."-Booklist (starred review) Set in an incarceration camp where the United States cruelly detained Japanese Americans during WWII and based on true events, this moving love story finds hope in heartbreak.

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Asian & Pacific Islander American Kids/YA Books!

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Thank you for shopping independent, queer, and feminist! Most orders are processed within 48 hours and ship/are available for pickup within 1-7 business days. Our website reflects what is available to order, NOT what is on our shelves. To check in stock availability or if you have other questions, please call the store(404)524-0304 10am-7pm daily (Sundays, Noon-6pm).

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12 Children’s Books to Celebrate Asian American Pacific Islander Heritage

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Here are 12 books for preschool and elementary-age children that offer positive, diverse representations of Asian American Pacific Islander history and culture that can help our families deepen their knowledge of the AAPI community so we can become allies in the fight for peace and justice for every…

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Celebrating South Asian Heritage Month | Inclusive Employers

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South Asian Heritage Month is a chance to educate and learn more about the South Asian culture and history.

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This month marks the annual South Asian Heritage Month in the United Kingdom. The month, running from 18th July to 17th August, celebrates the heritage and history of South Asian countries such as India, Pakistan, Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Nepal, Bhutan and Maldives.

Launched in 2019, the month aims to "Celebrate, Commemorate and Educate" people about South Asian history and culture, as well as creating awareness on the continued intertwined relationship between Britain and South Asian communities.

Unlike other commemorative months, South Asian Heritage Months takes place over two months, this is because July and August contain some significant dates for South Asia. In particular, on the 18th July the Indian Independence Act of 1947 gained royal assent, 26th July marks Maldives Independence Day, 8th August marks Bhutan's Independence Day, 14th August marks Pakistani Independence Day and 15th August marks Indian Independence Day. Also, the 17th August marks the date the Radcliffe line, which set out where the boundaries of India, West Pakistan and East Pakistan (now Bangladesh), was decided in 1947.

2022 also marks two significant anniversaries in South Asia namely the 50th Anniversary of the expulsion of Uganda's Asian minority and the 75th Anniversary of the partition of the Indian subcontinent.

The 2022 theme for South Asian Heritage month is "Journey's of Empire", which will aim to explore the history of empires and the journey of individuals migrating to Britain.

"This year's theme 'Journeys of Empire' is marking the impact our communities who travelled across the world with no understanding of the language, culture and with minimal funds to start a new life." - Tanisha Singla.

Alongside educating people about South Asian history, the month allows individuals of South Asian heritage to share their own stories and subsequently reclaim their history. Throughout the month many events and exhibitions will be held in order to uphold their ethos of "Celebrate, Commemorate and Educate".

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South Asian Heritage Month 2022 | British Online Archives

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This month marks the annual South Asian Heritage Month in the United Kingdom. The month, running from 18th July to 17th August, celebrates the heritage and history of South Asian countries such as India, Pakistan, Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Nepal,...

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South Asian Heritage Month is now in its third year, and our theme for 2022 is Journeys of Empire.

From empires such as the Mughal, the Duranni, the Vijayanagar and the British, from indentured labourers forced to travel to the Caribbean and East Asia, and other migrants who travelled by choice to Africa and beyond, to the journeys that families made to the UK with just £3 in their pockets, we have all been affected by the journeys of empire.
The theme also reflects two major anniversaries taking place in 2022:

75th anniversary of the independence of India, Partition, and the creation of Pakistan (later known as East and West Pakistan)

50th anniversary of the expulsion of Ugandan Asians by Idi Amin

This year, we are encouraging everyone to organise their own events for South Asian Heritage Month. Our online calendar will list all South Asian events taking place across the UK that we are aware of.

The South Asian Heritage Month team will also be curating a full calendar of online events for South Asian Heritage Month 2022. We aim to highlight 31 events over 31 days, and we will have specific Focus Days for each of the 8 countries of South Asia. Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Nepal, Pakistan, Maldives, Sri Lanka.

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South Asian Heritage Month is now in its third year, and our theme for 2022 is Journeys of Empire. From empires such as the Mughal, the Duranni, the Vijayanagar and the British, from indentured labourers forced to travel to the Caribbean and East Asia, and other migrants who travelled by choice to Africa and beyond, to the journeys that families made to the UK with just £3 in their pockets, we have all been affected by the journeys of empire.

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Asia's resources have a formidable impact on global economic growth.

Subjects

Geography, Human Geography, Physical Geography, Social Studies, Economics, Health, Earth Science, Engineering, Geology, Meteorology

Asia is the largest of the world's continents, covering approximately 30 percent of the Earth's land area. It is also the world's most populous continent, with roughly 60 percent of the total population.

Asia makes up the eastern portion of the Eurasian supercontinent; Europe occupies the western portion. The border between the two continents is debated. However, geographers often define Asia's western border as an indirect line that follows the Ural Mountains, the Caucasus Mountains, and the Caspian and Black seas. Asia is bordered by the Arctic, Pacific, and Indian oceans.

The geographic term "Asia" was originally used by ancient Greeks to describe the civilizations east of their empire. Ancient Asian peoples, however, saw themselves as a varied and diverse mix of cultures-not a collective group. The term "Asia" is used as a cultural concept, while subregion classifications describe the distinct geopolitical identities of the continent. These classifications are Western Asia, Central Asia, Southern Asia, Eastern Asia, and Southeastern Asia.

Today, Asia is home to the citizens of Afghanistan, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Bahrain, Bangladesh, Bhutan, Brunei, Cambodia, China, Cyprus, Georgia, India, Indonesia, Iran, Iraq, Israel, Japan, Jordan, Kazakhstan, Kuwait, Kyrgyzstan, Laos, Lebanon, Malaysia, Maldives, Mongolia, Myanmar, Nepal, North Korea, Oman, Pakistan, Philippines, Qatar, Russia, Saudi Arabia, Singapore, South Korea, Sri Lanka, Syria, Tajikistan, Thailand, Timor-Leste, Turkey, Turkmenistan, United Arab Emirates, Uzbekistan, Vietnam, and Yemen.

Asia's physical geography, environment and resources, and human geography can be considered separately.

The impact of Asia's resources on global economic growth is formidable. Asian countries rank as some of the top producers of many agricultural, forest, fishing, mining, and industrial products. This increased production has brought both extreme wealth and negative environmental impacts to the continent.

Climate and Agriculture

Asia's vast area allows for varied and extreme climates. It has some of the coldest, hottest, wettest, and driest places on Earth. While many distinct climates exist across the continent, Asia's climate can be most generally divided into three zones: north/central, southwest, and southeast.

The continent's north/central zone is affected by cold and dry Arctic winds, especially the Siberia region of Russia. Hardier grains, such as barley, buckwheat, millet, oats, and wheat, are grown in the central and southern areas of this zone, where permanent frosts have historically inhibited plant growth. Animal husbandry is also very important in this zone. In Mongolia, for example, 75 percent of agricultural land is allocated to the rearing of livestock, such as sheep, goats, and cattle.

The southwest zone is a dry, hot region that stretches from the Gobi Desert in Mongolia through Pakistan, Iran, and into the Arabian Peninsula. This zone has very few areas with enough moisture and precipitation to produce crops. Grains, such as barley and corn, are the principal irrigated crops of some countries. A lack of pastureland suitable for grains, however, means heat-resistant vegetables and fruits, such as dates, figs, apricots, olives, onions, grapes, and cherries, are also widely grown in this zone.

The southeast zone is greatly affected by the summer monsoon season. During this season, a low-pressure system south of the Himalayas attracts moisture-laden winds from the Indian Ocean. The Himalayas push these winds up, causing clouds and precipitation to form at a rapid rate. As a result, areas of Southeast Asia are some of the wettest places on Earth and can see more than 254 centimeters (100 inches) of rain annually.

The high temperatures and precipitation levels of Southeast Asia are the perfect conditions for the production of rice and tropical fruits. Rice is one of Asia's most important agricultural commodities and a major food staple of the entire continent. World rice production was estimated at 503 million metric tons in 2022-2023, with roughly 90 percent of total global rice production and global rice consumption occuring in Asia. As a result, the majority of Asia's rice stays within the region.

Southeast Asia is also a major producer of tropical fruits, such as mango, papaya, and pineapple. India is the world's largest mango-producing nation, accounting for nearly half of global mango production in 2020. Thailand, Indonesia, India, and the Philippines are the region's major producers of pineapple.

A changing climate and other factors continue to impact Asia's agricultural resources. For example, permafrost thaw is altering agricultural conditions in Siberia, while in Mongolia, overgrazing and hotter summers have resulted in massive land degradation that impacts livestock.

Forestry and Fishing

Forestry, the management of trees and other vegetation in forests, is an important but threatened industry in a select group of Asian countries. Russia and China alone accounted for 25 percent of the world's forest cover in 2020. Indonesia is home to the world's third largest tropical forest area.

China is a major exporter of wood products, ranking first globally in 2021 for wood furniture exports. Both Indonesia and Malaysia are top producers of tropical timbers, such as teak, primarily used in high-quality furniture and flooring.

During the past 10 years, Asia has increased its forest cover by 30 million hectares (74 million acres) to create forest plantations where trees can be intensively managed for higher-yield production. The timber industry estimates that Asia will produce roughly 45 percent of wood from forest plantations by 2020. These plantations will become increasingly important as natural forest resources continue to be depleted.

External and internal pressures, however, threaten Asia's timber industry. Rapidly rising populations have dramatically increased demand for forest products. While more of Asia's forests have come under environmental protection, lenient legislation and enforcement has allowed illegal logging and timber smuggling to flourish. This is especially true in Southeast Asia, where high-value species are found. As a result, Asian countries have experienced severe deforestation.

Threatened by deforestation, the region is working to slow the rate of forest loss. From 2010-2020, Asia had the highest net gain in forest cover of all regions. Indonesia, China, and Malaysia each saw significant progress in reducing the rate of deforestation as of 2022. Forest plantations, where trees can be intensively managed for higher-yield production, are seen as increasingly important as natural forest resources continue to be depleted.

Asia represents the most important region for fisheries and aquaculture production in the world. China was the world's largest seafood producer in 2020, followed by India, Indonesia, and Vietnam. Aquaculture, the rearing of fish and other aquatic animals in controlled environments, accounted for nearly half of the global fish supply in 2020. In that year, Asia produced more than 90 percent of the world's aquatic animals and algae.

Seafood consumption is extremely important to the lifestyle of many Asian peoples. A 2010 study by the National Geographic Society placed China and Japan as the world's leading consumers of seafood, at roughly 694 million and 582 million metric tons (765 million and 641 million tons) annually. Emphasizing that each fish species impacts the marine environment differently, the study measured each country's "seafood print" based on the quantities and types of fish consumed. While Japan eats larger, higher-quality fish, China's massive population is consuming smaller fish at a much higher rate. This is because China, along with many countries in Southeast Asia, is experiencing a rapid expansion of its middle class population. More people can afford expensive food.

Mining and Drilling

Extractive activities are an important part of the economies of many Asian countries. China, India, Russia, and Indonesia are the continent's most productive mining economies. These countries extract many of the same minerals.

India is also a major producer of iron ore, along with other minerals such as barite (used in drilling fluids), chromite (used in steel production and dyes), and manganese (used in steel production). Russia is a major producer of tungsten (used in steel production), diamonds, iron, and steel. Indonesia is a major producer of copper and tin.

Countries on the Arabian Peninsula have some of the world's largest deposits of oil and natural gas. These fossil fuels are drilled for energy and fuel, and make the region one of the most important in the international economy. The oil found throughout the Arabian Peninsula and Middle East includes high quality, light sweet crude. Light sweet crude oil is used to make gasoline, kerosene, and diesel fuels, and is in constant demand throughout the industrialized world.

Saudi Arabia was the world's largest exporter of crude oil in 2022. Saudi Arabia's economy is heavily dependent on oil exports, which account for about 70-85 percent of its export earnings and 50 percent of its gross domestic product (GDP).

Another major player in Asia's liquid fuels industry is Russia. Russia has oil reserves in Siberia, and massive natural gas reserves throughout the Arctic. Russia is the world's second largest producer of natural gas, and the second largest supplier of natural gas to Europe in 2022. Russia has not aggressively drilled in the Arctic Ocean, but engineers say the area holds millions of barrels of oil and gas reserves.

The Built Environment

Asia contains some of the most populated and fastest-growing cities of the world. As of 2020, Tokyo, Japan, Delhi, India, and Shanghai, China were the most populated cities in the world. Cities such as Dhaka, Bangladesh, and Delhi, India, are growing rapidly.

A surge of economic investment, primarily funded by the oil, technology, and pharmaceutical industries, has fueled the development of cities such as Hyderabad, India, and Dubai, United Arab Emirates, into major metropolitan areas.

Hyderabad, India, the capital city of the state of Andhra Pradesh, grew from a population of more than 7.5 million people in 2010 to roughly 10 million people in 2020. Nicknamed "Cyberabad," the city has developed into one of the world's major hubs for information technology, biotechnology, and pharmaceutical production. Hyderabad has aggressively promoted its skilled labor force and cheap investment opportunities. In fact, the city inaugurated a township known as HITEC City in 1998 in order to attract international IT firms. HITEC hosts offices from an array of national and international IT companies, including Oracle Corporation, General Electric, and Microsoft. Microsoft's largest research and development campus outside the United States is in the HITEC complex.

Hyderabad has also invested extensively in the pharmaceutical and biotechnology industries. Biotechnology is the manipulation of living things to produce useful products, such as changing genetic material to create medicines. Much like HITEC City, Hyderabad's Genome Valley is a large campus of facilities that houses more than 200 companies in sectors including pharma and biotech, including Novartis, Ferring Pharma, and DuPont. The city has also developed campuses for the study of nanotechnology and the manufacturing of advanced semiconductors and solar technologies. This aggressive investment in high-tech industries will most likely continue to bring revenue and jobs into the city. As a result, Hyderabad must deal with a swelling population in need of more goods and services well into the future.

Dubai is one of the seven emirates of the United Arab Emirates (UAE). An emirate is a political territory that is ruled by a Muslim monarch called an emir. Dubai's population has grown rapidly from roughly 1.9 million people in 2010 to 2.9 million in 2020 as a result of intense economic growth.

Urban infrastructure in Dubai has expanded at a rapid rate. Dubai has the world's tallest building, the Burj Khalifa, which stands at slightly more than 828 meters (2,700 feet)-almost a kilometer tall. The city's Persian Gulf coast is the site of the Palm Jumeirah, an artificial island shaped like a palm tree. Since construction began in 2001, the Palm Jumeirah has transformed into the site of luxury hotels and residences, estimated to be home to nearly 80,000 people. The city's transportation infrastructure is also expanding rapidly. The Dubai Metro system is the first urban train network on the Arabian Peninsula.

Dubai's rapid growth, warm climate, and luxurious lifestyle have attracted many foreigners to the city. Dubai was the 7th most-visited city in the world in 2018. It has been called the "shopping capital of the Middle East," as well as the "Expat Capital of the World" because of the foreign majority that lives in the city. In 2023, more than 68 percent of the United Arab Emirate's population is male, represented mostly by laborers from countries such as India, Pakistan, and the Philippines who work in Dubai's construction business. The laborers' poor working and living conditions have come under criticism from the international community, especially in contrast to the city's image as a luxury capital of the world.

Asia has a number of state-of-the-art engineering marvels that solve complex infrastructural problems. China's Three Gorges Dam is the world's largest hydroelectric power station. The dam stands at 185 meters (607 feet) high and stretches for 2,335 meters (7,660 feet) across the Yangtze River. It supplies millions of homes, businesses, hospitals, and schools with safe, affordable electricity.

The massive project, however, has had a devastating effect on the human and natural environment. The damming of the Yangtze River created a reservoir that flooded 632 square kilometers (244 square miles), taking out hundreds of towns and villages and displacing more than 1.2 million people. It submerged hundreds of factories, mines, and waste dumps, allowing industrial pollutants and garbage to enter the reservoir. The reservoir has also threatened the habitats of birds, fish, and other wildlife populations.

The Jamnagar Refinery in Gujarat, India, is the world's largest oil refinery. An oil refinery is a factory where crude oil is processed and refined into useful products, such as gasoline, kerosene, and diesel oil. Referred to as the "Refining Capital of the World," Jamnagar has a refining capacity of 1.24 million barrels of oil per day. The factory covers an area larger than the city of London, England.

Japan's Shinkansen train network is one of the world's fastest high-speed railway lines. The so-called "bullet trains" can reach speeds of 320 kilometers per hour (199 miles per hour). Shinkansen links most major cities on the islands of Honshu and Kyushu. The Tōkaidō line, which connects Tokyo and Osaka, is the world's busiest high-speed rail line. Since the railway lines were laid in the mid-1960s, it has transported roughly 6.4 billion people.

The Baikonur Cosmodrome is the world's first and largest spaceport. The facility opened in the late 1950s, when the steppes of Central Asia were part of the Soviet Union. The world's first artificial satellite, Sputnik 1, was launched from Baikonur in 1957, and the first spacecraft to carry a person into orbit ( Vostok 1, carrying Soviet pilot Yuri Gagarin) was launched in 1961. The Baikonur Cosmodrome is in southern Kazakhstan, although it is leased to and maintained by Russia. The state-of-the-art facility allows for the launch of both manned and unmanned spacecraft, and is vital to the support and maintenance of the International Space Station (ISS).

Fast Fact

Highest Elevation
Mount Everest (called Chomolungma in Tibetan), Nepal: 8,848 meters/29,029 feet

Fast Fact

Most Renewable Electricity Produced
Bhutan (99.9%, hydropower)

Fast Fact

Largest Urban Area
Tokyo-Yokohama, Japan (38.2 million people)

Media Credits

The audio, illustrations, photos, and videos are credited beneath the media asset, except for promotional images, which generally link to another page that contains the media credit. The Rights Holder for media is the person or group credited.

Illustrators

Mary Crooks, National Geographic Society

Editors

Jeannie Evers, Emdash Editing, Emdash Editing

Producer

National Geographic Society

other

Last Updated

October 19, 2023

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Asia's resources have a formidable impact on global economic growth.

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Objectives

Identify the importance of trade in the classical era and throughout history.

Understand that people from distant lands have sought Indian goods since ancient times.

Analyze the importance of the monsoon winds.

Connect India's history of trade and commerce to its modern emergence as an independent state and economic power.

Introduction

The development of India throughout history was partially shaped by the interactions with and influences of the many foreign merchants who traveled to and within India. The resource-rich subcontinent supplied great wealth to those merchants who trekked over the Silk Road and sailed the Indian Ocean.

Main Task

Part 1: Roman Merchant
As a Roman trader you have just one goal as you sail the Indian Ocean - bring a large shipment of spices to a port in Egypt that will make this trip profitable. The state of Kerala offers more opportunities than you can resist, so you take up residence. Through a carefully crafted letter, try to convince your business partner back in Egypt to join you in India. Use descriptions of the land, the people, and the opportunities to make vast amounts of money. Remember to describe how he must use the monsoon winds to get to India.

Part 2: Modern Historian
In your research you came across the letter written in Part 1 and believe it exemplifies the greater idea that India has stood on the crossroads of world trade routes since ancient times. You intend to use this letter in an upcoming article as a case study to further your argument that the exchange of goods and ideas, specifically between countries and cultures, has had a lasting impact on the world. Write an overview of those interactions and their greater significance throughout Indian history, referencing the Silk Road, Buddhism, Gupta Empire, Cholan Empire, astronomy, mathematics, Vasco da Gama, and the British East India Company.

Brief Process

1. Discuss the Part 1 assignment and use the provided resources to research Roman-Indian trade.

2. Write your letter.

3. Share your letter with classmates.

4. Review resources associated with Part 2 and write the accompanying analysis of the letter.

5. Share your analysis with classmates.

Resources

Part A Resources:

Part B Resources:

Extension Ideas

Publish letters on the Internet using a blog or wiki.

Exchange written letters from Part 1 with other students in the class and complete Part 2 based upon the analysis of a classmate's letter.

Research information on other trading posts in the Roman Empire and create an exchange of letters from traders at the various posts.

Consider an alternative history mdash; describe Romans from the perspective of an Indian who might have traveled to Italy.

Standards

Era 4: Expanding Zones of Exchange and Encounter, 300-1000 CE

Standard 1C: The student understands the synthesis of Hindu civilization in India in the era of the Gupta Empire.

7-12
Explain the rise of the Gupta Empire and analyze factors that contributed to the empire's stability and economic prosperity.

Standard 1D: The student understands the expansion of Hindu and Buddhist traditions in Southeast Asia in the first millennium CE.

5-12
Assess the relationship between long-distance trade of Indian and Malay peoples and the introduction of Hindu and Buddhist traditions in Southeast Asia.

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Lesson 3: The Winds of Trade; The Story of India; This two-part lesson starts by putting students in the shoes of a Roman merchant in the state of Kerala trying to convince a business partner to join him in India.

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If you're an Ancient Civilizations teacher and need some Ancient India activities for your unit, you're in the right place! We've compiled our top free and paid resources to help you have a successful Ancient India unit. We want to help you succeed, whether you use these as an outline or to help supplement your existing unit! All links and resources below are what we personally use in our Ancient India unit.

Ancient India Activities for Middle School

Introductory Vocabulary Activities

Ancient India Word Wall

Along with our vocab activities, we always find that word walls are a great vocabulary tool! This resource includes 24 Ancient India vocab words ready to print and display on a bulletin board. And because images are included on every card, they're also helpful for your visual learners! And even better, an editable Google Slideshow is included with all words and images, so you can edit the definitions as needed!

Ancient India Inquiry Activity

Introductory Research Activity

If you're looking for a simple and no-prep research activity, this resource helps provide context about Ancient India by connecting it to present-day India. It also helps peak student's curiosity about things they'll learn throughout the unit. The resource goes through topics such as geography, language, population, and more!

Monsoon Videos

One critical part of understanding India is the monsoons and how they affect life in India both past and present. There's no shortage of videos on monsoons, but one video we like to use gives a general overview of monsoons. Another video we've found was uploaded in July of 2020, regarding how the Indian population has had to combat monsoons while experiencing Covid-19. It's a great way to discuss how geographical weather has its benefits but also its drawbacks and consequences.

Ancient India Mapping Activity

After discussing monsoons, it's a good time to transition into geography. Instead of having students label a traditional paper map, this activity has students create a visual map of important landmarks. In addition to labeling the locations from the slide, students find and include a photograph of each landmark on their map. This allows students to better visualize what these places look like and offers more relevance than just labeling a paper map.

Ancient India Bell Ringers

If you're looking to improve your classroom management and help students review material, these bell ringers are perfect! This set includes 20 Ancient India Bell Ringers for Google Drive that are 100% editable and ready to use. These warm-up prompts cover a variety of topics that come up in an Ancient India unit while also building helpful skills! Topics covered in this resource include Mohenjo-Daro, Hinduism, the Caste System, and more!

Ancient India Daily Agenda Slides

Need a way to stay more organized during your Ancient India Unit? These Ancient India Daily Agenda Slides Templates will help you save time and better immerse your students in the unit! These 22 slides for Google Drive are editable and each template features an Ancient India-themed photograph, as well as clipart. They can be used to share your daily agenda, bell ringers, and more!

Never used agenda slides, or looking for more options? Check out our recent blog post for more info on daily agenda slides!

Ancient India Slideshow + Note Sheet

We find it helpful to share background information at the start of the unit, so students can make connections during other activities. With this Ancient India Slideshow for Google Slides, teach your students about the GRAPES of Ancient India! This 47-slide Google Slideshow provides a detailed overview of Ancient India, including geography, Hinduism, the Gupta Empire, and much more! This no-prep resource also includes both printable and digital note sheets!

History 101: Mohenjo-Daro Video

For more geography activities, there's a great video from National Geographic that gives an overview of Mohenjo-Daro and what it's about. It gets into the layout, when it existed, and what mysteriously happened to them and why they might've disappeared.

Explore Mohenjo-Daro

Ancient India Early Finisher Activity or Emergency Sub Plan

Caste System Reading and Activity

Ancient India Timeline Activity

If you're looking to make your Ancient India Unit more hands-on and engaging, this printable Ancient India Timeline is the resource you need! In this interactive timeline project, students construct a timeline that features reading passages, maps, and images. The information included in these features covers the Indus Valley Civilization, Vedic Period, Mauryan Empire, and the Gupta Empire. Not only will this activity give students the chance to physically build a timeline, but it will also become a learning tool that they can refer back to throughout the unit!

Overview of Hinduism and Buddhism

Another topic you can't forget about when teaching Ancient India is addressing two of our five major world religions. Hinduism and Buddhism both originated in India, and like discussing any religion, just be conscious of how you present information. Hinduism can be difficult for students to understand, but we've found a video that does a great job presenting it. There's another video that's great for Buddhism, discussing the story of Buddha and what the religion is about.

Hinduism and Buddhism ABC Slideshow

An activity that students can do with the information from the videos is this Google Slideshow activity. It's a great in-class activity for students to work through a variety of vocabulary words and topics within Hinduism and Buddhism. Students have to find the definition of each word and which religion they belong to. This allows them to organize their thoughts in a way that helps them better understand the material.

Ancient India Job Fair

When discussing the major leaders of Ancient India, a fun way we've presented it is through a job fair activity. In this activity, students are given resumes of different leaders, and they decide who to hire for specific jobs. We love this activity because students get the opportunity to have some career practice from the evaluator perspective. We love this activity, as it can work with other ancient civilizations as well!

Ancient India Test + Study Guide

At the end of your unit, you can assess your students using this Ancient India Test and Study Guide. The test is perfectly aligned to the other resources mentioned in this activity guide, 100% editable and available in 2 different formats: Google Forms (self-grading) and Google Docs. The day before the test, have a review day with the provided study guide, and then give the exam in whichever format works best for you!

Ancient India Newscast Project

For a great assessment assignment, we like to use a newscast project at the end of the unit. In this activity, students take on roles connecting to one component of Ancient India or the unit. Then as a class, they put together a complete news broadcast with a variety of different segments! It's a nice way to sum everything up that students have learned throughout the unit. So while it starts out as an individual project, it comes together wonderfully as a class project during the presentation!

Ancient India Printable Bookmarks

These printable Ancient India Bookmarks are a fun addition to your Ancient India unit! This set includes four different designs that feature images and clipart that are related to Ancient India. The bookmarks are 100% black and white so that students can color in the images or personalize them as they wish! These coloring bookmarks make a great prize, short early finisher activity, or can even help students save time when using their textbooks!

Ancient India Unit Plan

When teaching any ancient civilization, it's always important to have activities that make the content fun and engaging for students. If you liked any of our Ancient India activities, you'll love our Ancient India Unit Bundle! This bundle contains 17 resources and is a great way to supplement your textbook or curriculum materials about Ancient India! We've had great success with these resources, and our students had a blast!

Looking for ideas and inspiration when planning your Ancient India unit? If so, this free Ancient India resource guide can help! It showcases each of our Ancient India resources to help you decide which options will be best for your students. For more details about how we put fit these resources together and how long we spend on each activity, you can also download our free Ancient India unit plan!

If you liked this list of 16 Ancient India Activities for Middle School, consider watching the corresponding video here!

Are you looking for some new teaching ideas to engage your students in your social studies class? If so, you'll love our FREE guide: 5 Creative Projects to Ignite Student Engagement in Your Social Studies Class. These activities have both printable and digital options and can work for any social studies subject!

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16 Ancient India Activities for Middle School - Mr and Mrs Social Studies

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If you're an Ancient Civilizations teacher and need some Ancient India activities for your unit, you're in the right place! We've compiled our top free and paid resources to help you have a successful Ancient India unit. We want to help you succeed, whether you use these as an outline or to help supplement your existing unit!

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I'm so excited about the beautiful picture books and interesting chapter books about India, Indian culture, and Indian mythology that have arrived in the children's literature world recently.

Standouts include the gorgeous The Festival of Colors picture book and the historical chapter book Ahimsa. But they're all amazing. These books will help kids learn and appreciate what makes India unique.

Children's Picture Books About India, Indian Culture, and Indian Mythology (ages 3 - 10)

India Treasure Quest (Tiny Travelers) A Search and Find Book by Steven Wolfe Pereira and Susie Jaramillo
This new Tiny Travelers India board book transports little readers to India. See the sights, learn words, and search for objects in the illustrations. It's a colorful, exuberant cultural journey featuring Bollywood , the jungles of Ranthambore, the spring Holi festival, the sport of cricket, and much more. This richly illustrated, engaging look at a world region and culture encourages young readers to see things from a global perspective. Absolutely wonderful.

Binny's Diwali by Thrity Umrigar, illustrated by Nidhi Chanani
Today, Binny gets to share with her classmates about the holiday, Diwali. At first, she's nervous, then she finds the words to explain about the Festival of Lights and its colorful fireworks, colorful powdered chalk, the pretty clay lamps, and sweet foods. She shares the sweets with the class. When the day is done, she celebrates her own victory of goodness and light. This lovely, relatable story of shyness to bravery teaches children about an important Hindu holiday.

by Meenal Patel
When Priya helps her Babi Ba cook rotli, her Babi Ba shares her memories of India ... the smell of roasted cumin and masala, the sound of motorbikes whizzing by, the taste of a steaming cup of cha, the feel of the hot sun on your face, views of arches and domes of the buildings, rainbow of saris, and brightly colored marigolds. Later, Priya makes her Babi Ba paper orange marigolds for their doorway in the U.S. to remind her. I adore the writing, the illustrations, and the story that celebrate India's culture as well as a close grandparent-grandchild relationship.

A Gift for Amma: Market Day in India by Meera Sriram, illustrated by Mariona Cabassa
A little girl excitedly explores the market to find her Amma a gift. She notices the colors - orange saffron and marigolds, white jasmine and goats, pink lotus flowers and sweets...I love how many senses the author engages from sights to sounds and tastes and smells. "T umeric yellow like sunshine dust, Plenty of powdery spice at home. A yellow rickshaw pedals by - Ding-a-ling! I scoot to the side. " Beautiful illustrations perfectly illuminate the celebration of the market's colors and the girl's excitement.

Bilal Cooks Daal by Aisha Saeed, illustrated by Anoosha Syed
Bilal tells his friends all about daal. Together, they carefully prepare the ingredients, then wait as the flavors mix together. While they're waiting, they play outside. Finally, the daal is ready for more ingredients and the best part of all - eating! This story makes me want to eat daal, too - it's a lovely introduction to this savory lentil dish from South Asia as well as a warm-hearted example of sharing traditional foods with friends from other cultures. Wonderful!

by Ian Lendler, illustrated by Xanthe Bouma

Sid starts out life as a spoiled prince whose parents catered to his every need. But he isn't happy. So Sid leaves his castle to look for Happiness. After he almost dies, things change. Sid changes. He no longer wants material things; he wants just to be. Pastels and browns, dialogue bubbles, and accessible text make this a winning introduction to the boy who became Buddha. (Siddhartha was born in Nepal but I'm including this picture book here as it still carries historical significance in the area.)

Ganesha's Sweet Tooth by Sanjay Patel and Emily Haynes
In this gorgeously illustrated Hindu myth, the elephant god Ganesha breaks his tusk eating candy. He's so mad that he throws his tusk at the moon. But, it doesn't land on the moon. It lands on the poet Vyasa who asks Ganesha to use his tusk to scribe an epic Sanskrit poem. I love the story but I really love the patterns, colors, and designs throughout. Incredible!

Wheels on the Tuk Tuk by Kabir Sehgal and Surishtha Sehgal, illustrated by Jess Golden
What a fun version of "The Wheels on the Bus" song. This one is set aboard a three-wheeled tuk tuk taxi in India. You'll pay with rupees, stop for a moo-moo-cow, and eat poppa-doppa-doms .. all through the town. I love how this creates an ambience of sounds and sights that you'd encounter in India.

by Kabir Sehgal and Surishtha Sehgal, illustrated by Jing Jing Tsong
It hasn't rained where Monkey lives. He remembers a story his mama told him about peacocks dancing to make rain so he searches for Peacock. Peacock tells Monkey he needs water. Monkey gets the water and brings it in a bucket to Peacock. Along the way, the bucket's hole drips water on the ground - which initially seems like a terrible failure until the land begins to bloom. Plus, Peacock uses the few drops left to dance and bring rain to the land. Gorgeous patterned illustrations throughout.

The Elephant's Friend and Other Tales from Ancient India retold by Marcia Williams
This collection of tales from India is depicted in cartoons of rich magenta, amethyst, and reds. Animals talk and people learn valuable lessons in this Indian version of Aesop's Fables.

Elephant in the Dark based on a poem by Rumi, retold by Mina Javaherbin, illustrated by Eugene Yelchin

You'll remember this famous story about perspective, it's often used in the classroom and corporate training. In this lovely picture book adaptation, a merchant arrives with a mysterious beast which he puts into a barn. The villagers are anxious to figure out what it is so they each creep into the dark barn and feel part of the beast. One thinks it's a like a snake, the other thinks it's like a fan, another things it's like a tree trunk, and so on. But no one listens to the others. The next day, the merchant leads the beautiful elephant out of the barn but no one noticed or saw the truth because they were too busy fighting. What a great lesson! Rumi was a Persian poet but I'm including it here since elephants are also part of the Indian culture.

Indian Tales: A Barefoot Collection by Shenaaz Nanji and Christopher Corr
Storytelling and oral tradition are important in India. This colorfully illustrated book of Indian stories shares information about different regional areas in India plus notable cultural elements. For example, in the Gujarat section, you'll learn about many important festivals by Divaali and Holi. The regions each contain a mesmerizing folktale filled with distinctive cultural elements and mythology.

The Secret Kingdom: Nek Chand, a Changing India and a Hidden World of Art by Barb Rosenstock, illustrated by Claire A. Nivola
" Season by season, Nek's head filled with stories, until it overflowed." Nek's world is filled with stories and the richness of life in India. Until Punjab splits into two -Pakistan and India. Nek, being a Hindu, is forced to flee from his home to the new India. But his new land doesn't speak to him. Not until he finds a hidden wilderness. Even though it is illegal, he lives in his new spot, quietly building a secret kingdom of plants, metal, concrete, broken glass, and pebbles. When the government discovers it, they want to tear it down. But they don't because the Indian people love his secret kingdom too much. They help him keep his art and stories alive. The back contains actual illustrations of this incredible real place. This is an inspiring story of an artist with dedication and vision!

Chapter Books About India, Indian Culture, and Indian Mythology (Ages 8 - 12)

The Bridge Home by Padma Venkatraman
This is the story of family being what you make it, resiliency and courage. Set in India, Viji her sister ran away from an abusive father and sick mother to the big city where they meet two friendly brothers and live with them under a bridge, scrabbling to survive by collecting trash. Their days are hard but Viji learns how much more capable her sister is then she previously thought. For example, Rukku makes beautiful bead necklaces that earn them money for food. Rukku is also a kind soul, mourning worms who have died and adopting a stray dog. Then when a bad trash man finds their home, the four kids escape to a mosquito-filled cemetery filled. Not long after, Rukku gets a terrible cough and fever. So does one of the brothers. What happens next will almost destroy Viji. She wonders how prayers and faith can coexist with misery and pain. She wonders how life can move on. Ultimately, it is the kindness of her new family that helps her see more in the future than misery. It's an honest, eye-opening story that reveals the plight of many homeless children in India and yet, finds a way to be hopeful, too.

The Serpent's Secret (Kiranmala and the Kingdom Beyond #1) by Sayantani Dasgupta
" I was done for - abandoned by my parents, covered in rakkosh snot, and about to be eaten. This was the worst birthday ever!" Kiranmala discovers on her 12th birthday that she's a princess from another realm and her parents are trapped in a black hole-type place. But there's a lot more she'll learn - like who her real parents are (yikes!) and that demons can be your friends. The prince's demon grandma, Ai-Ma, is my FAVORITE character. She says things like " Be good, sweet beetle-dung toadstools. " Okay, Kiranmala's parents are super awesome, too. You'll love every second of this entertaining, Indian mythology adventure.

by Veera Hiranandani
Written in a diary as letters to her Mama, Nisha shares how her life is turned upside down when the British rule of India ends in 1947, splitting the country into two - the Muslim north where she lives becomes Pakistan and the Hindu south remains India. Even though Nisha's mom was Muslim, Nisha, her brother, her doctor Papa and her grandmother are forced to leave their home in the north because they are Hindu. There's violence everywhere; nowhere is safe, not even the trains. It's a harrowing journey and a confusing time. This story, filled with historical significance, is masterfully told. You won't want to put this one down.

Not only did I learn a lot about Indian history during the time of Gandhi, I thoroughly enjoyed every moment of this incredible, passion-filled book. Anjali's parents join the Indian freedom movement against the British government. Through her parents, Anjali begins to see her world differently including the poverty-stricken caste of many people call "the Untouchables". Other Indian families do not like the changes her family is making. Then, Anjali's mom is thrown in jail! I couldn't put this book down.

by Roshani Chokshi
I found this a difficult book to read for two reasons. First, I disliked the main character who constantly lied. Second, I probably needed more background knowledge in the Hindu religion / mythology because I couldn't follow the many god and goddess characters. It just got confusing. That being said, maybe you'll find this book more appealing than me. I really hope you do - it's the first book in Rick Riordan's new imprint devoted to diverse mythologies.
You Might Also Like: Books Set in Asia (Japan, China, Mongolia, Korea, & More)Chapter Books Set in South Asia (Pakistan, Afghanistan, India, Myanmar, Vietnam)

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Children's Books About India, Indian Culture, and Indian Mythology

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I'm so excited about the beautiful picture books and interesting chapter books about India, Indian culture, and Indian mythology that have arrived in the children's literature world recently. Standouts include the gorgeous The Festival of Colors picture book and the historical chapter book Ahimsa. But they're all amazing.

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Why did C. love this book?

This book is filled the Mayan mythology. I found that the magic was fascinating, and I couldn't get enough of the monsters, gods, and giants. They make for an exciting read-even if you're not a middle grader.

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The best children's fantasy books with South Asian representation

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This book is filled the Mayan mythology. I found that the magic was fascinating, and I couldn't get enough of the monsters, gods, and giants. They make for an exciting read-even if you're not a middle grader.

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Children’s Books with Characters of Indian and South Asian Descent

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The best diverse children’s books with Indian and South Asian characters, including read aloud picture books and chapter books for independent reading.

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Children's Books with Characters of Indian and South Asian Descent

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What to read next

With themes of learning to adjust, making new friends and making your voice heard, these stories will inspire and entertain readers of every age. Featuring South Asian characters at the forefront, they represent bold and brilliant kids that will inspire and delight.

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Our pick of children's books with South Asian characters

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What to read next With themes of learning to adjust, making new friends and making your voice heard, these stories will inspire and entertain readers of every age. Featuring South Asian characters at the forefront, they represent bold and brilliant kids that will inspire and delight.

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LOCAL INDEPENDENT BOOKSTORE SELLING ASIAN AMERICAN, LANGUAGE LEARNING, CHINESE MANDARIN, MARTIAL ARTS, TRADITIONAL CHINESE MEDICINE BOOKS, QIGONG BOOKS, ART SUPPLIES, CHINESE PHILOSOPHY, EASTERN RELIGIONS, ETHNIC STUDIES

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Picture Books With South Asian Characters

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Early this month, I started writing a new book list with Asian characters, and I originally included South Asians characters but the list got too long! There are many nationalities, religions, and etniticites in South Asia and this list is far from complete. As always I welcome your suggestions to add to the list in comments.

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Children's Picture Books: Stories about Characters of South-Asian Ethnicity | Diverse BookFinder

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Are you looking for books featuring characters of South-Asian ethnicity? Check out our collection of multicultural children's books (2002-present). Then, search our website to find more titles of interest.

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Be sure to check out all of our Ancient Civilization guides!

Essential Questions for Ancient India

1. Where is ancient India and how did its geography impact the development of its culture and technology?

2. What were the religions present in ancient India and what were some of their characteristics?

3. What were some of the major achievements of ancient India in art, architecture, technology, writing, and science?

4. What type of government existed in ancient India and what were some of their characteristics?

5. What were some important jobs and major influences on the economy in ancient India?

6. What was the social structure in ancient India? How was the caste system divided?

G: Geography and Natural Resources

India is a large country located in Asia. It's called a subcontinent as it extends far south. The climate is warm to hot year round with two seasons: rainy and dry. India is surrounded by ocean on three sides: the Bay of Bengal in the east, the Arabian Sea in the west, and the Indian Ocean to the south. It has many rivers, such as the Brahmaputra which starts in the Himalayas, the Ganges which flows across most of northern India, and the Indus which begins in the Himalayas and flows from the Hindu Kush mountains through what is now Pakistan to the Arabian Sea. The rivers were important sources of water for farmland and people, and the site of the first civilizations.

The Thar Desert lies in northern India, stretching for hundreds of miles comprised of sand, dunes, and stone with little plant life. It is dry and hot, and dust storms are common. Birds, lizards, and snakes live here, as well as gazelles. There are seven mountain ranges in India including the Himalayan and Hindu Kush Mountains to the north and the Western Ghats and Eastern Ghats that run south along the western and eastern coasts. They all form a natural barrier. In addition, The Deccan Plateau is a massive triangle-shaped area that lies between the Western Ghats and Eastern Ghats mountain ranges. It is raised, flat land that is dry with few rivers. The soil is either black (rich in iron and good for growing cotton) or yellow or red, which are difficult for farming. The monsoons during the rainy season provide most of the water in this area.

R: Religion

India has many polytheistic religions, meaning they believe in many gods. Brahmanism is considered the earliest form of Hinduism, which is the main religion in India. Hinduism teaches reincarnation (one is reborn after death into another being), karma (a cause and effect of spirituality; that one's actions in their current life will affect their status and opportunities in their next life), and nirvana (a state of perfect happiness attained when one has led a life that releases them from the cycle of reincarnation). There are three main gods: Brahma, who creates the universe; Vishnu, who preserves the universe; and Shiva, who destroys the universe. These three together form one supreme god. Hinduism is the world's oldest major religion and the largest religion in India today. Religion was deeply embedded in all aspects of society, from the government to the rigid social structure, or caste system, that was outlined in the Vedas, the oldest Hindu sacred texts.

Buddhism, another major religion in India was founded by Siddhartha Gautama (Buddha, 563 BCE-483 BCE), who was a Hindu prince that renounced his wealth to seek enlightenment. Buddhism focuses on understanding and eliminating suffering, karma, birth, and rebirth as laid out in the Four Noble Truths and the Eightfold Path.

Other religions practiced in ancient India include Islam, Jainism and Sikhism. The Dharma Wheel symbol is used by Jainism, Hinduism, and Buddhism. The practice of Yoga was one of the components of Hinduism and is also practiced in Buddhism and Jainism. Its focus is to improve health in mind, body, and soul.

A: Achievements

Ancient India made advances in writing, art, architecture, religion, agriculture, mathematics, astronomy, and medicine. The Harappan Civilization in the Indus River Valley (2500-1700 BCE) built the first planned cities and even created the world's first urban sanitation systems and large public baths some 2000 years before the ancient Greeks and Romans.

Writing developed in 2000 BCE (4,000 years ago!) with Sanskrit, one of the world's oldest written languages. Sacred Hindu texts called the Vedas were written in Sanskrit after being orally taught for hundreds of years. Writing also flourished during the Gupta empire (320-550 CE) with works of poetry, fables, folktales, plays of comedy and drama, and writings about Hindu law and religion. Kalidasa is considered the greatest poet and dramatist of the Sanskrit language.

Also during the Gupta empire, Aryabhata I discovered a more exact calculation of pi and correctly believed that the Earth rotated on an axis and that the planets and Moon shine by reflected sunlight. Ancient India is credited with the mathematical concept of zero, decimals, systems of measurements, weights, and scales. Mathematical concepts aided in creating complex architecture in ancient India, with massive structures built as universities, temples, and palaces. Later in 1632, the white marble Taj Mahal was constructed by emperor Shah Jahan in honor of his favorite wife, Mumtaz Mahal. It serves as a tomb for her and the emperor himself. The Taj Mahal is considered one of the world's most impressive and iconic works of architecture.

Medicinal practices were written in the Vedas and ancient Indians used hundreds of herbs, plants, and flowers to treat ailments. They even performed surgeries! Yoga was a Hindu practice that helped align the mind, body, and soul.

Art also flourished in ancient India with wall murals, paintings, and sculptures of stone, wood, metal, and clay. Metallurgy, or metalwork, using the natural resources of copper, gold, and iron created engraved coins, pillars, and sculptures. The ancient Indians loved games and are even credited with inventing chess!

P: Politics

Ancient India had monarchical forms of government with rajahs, or kings, as rulers who handed down power through their families. When challenges to succession occurred, wars could break out as they did when King Ashoka seized the throne from his brother during the Mauryan Empire.

The Mauryan Empire (322-187 BCE) conquered much of India and modern day Nepal, Bangladesh, Pakistan, and Afghanistan. Later in his life, King Ashoka turned away from brutal conquest to spread Buddhism and the values of love, respect, and nonviolence. He communicated these values through his famous edicts that were carved into stones and pillars and placed throughout the empire.

About five hundred years later, the Gupta Empire (320-550 CE) created a peaceful time of great prosperity and achievements that is nicknamed ancient India's "Golden Age." They created a central government with councils that were made up of religious advisors and members of the royal family to help the king make decisions. In addition, local provinces were ruled by royal governors.

Ancient India boasted military might in order to conquer lands and maintain control of its empires. They created weapons of bronze, and later iron, such as bow and arrows, swords, javelins, and spears. The cavalry rode on horseback, they used chariots and also had a most fearsome weapon in their use of domesticated elephants, which could stampede and scatter opposing forces.

E: Economy

Ancient India was an agrarian society, meaning their economy was mainly based on farming. Agriculture developed as early as 3000 BCE with crops like wheat, barley, rice, and cotton in the Indus River Valley. India was one of the first in the world to cultivate cotton and they used it to weave cloth, making colorful clothing with natural vegetable dyes. In addition to grains, ancient Indians farmed vegetables, fruit, and spices. They raised livestock such as sheep, goats, and cattle and may also have been the first to raise chickens! The rivers and oceans were full of fish and birds as well as pearls and salt. Metallurgy, or metalwork, was another great achievement of ancient India and resulted from mining the land rich with gold, copper, and iron. The rivers and oceans lent themselves to travel and trade by boat. Ancient India Imported silk, silver, tin, wool, and grain from along the "silk road". They exported cotton, ivory, salt, pearls, beads, gold, and wood. Metal coins were created as a form of currency as early as 300 BCE!

S: Social Structure

Ancient Indian Hinduism imposed a strict social hierarchy called a caste system. The Vedas (sacred texts) described four main social classes: Brahmins (priests or religious scholars), Kshatriyas (rulers or warriors), Vaishyas (herders or merchants), Shudras (servants) and Dalit (formerly known as "untouchables" who did what were considered the lowest jobs such as street cleaning and sanitation). The Dalit were badly mistreated and thought of as less than because of their social caste. The caste system affected every part of a person's life as they could not change it and could not marry outside of their caste.

With the activities in this lesson plan, students will demonstrate what they've learned about ancient India. They'll become familiar with the environment, resources, technologies, religion, and culture of Ancient India and be able to demonstrate their knowledge in writing and illustrations.

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Ancient India for Kids | Ancient India Lesson Plans & Activities

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Be sure to check out all of our Ancient Civilization guides! Where is ancient India and how did its geography impact the development of its culture and technology? What were the religions present in ancient India and what were some of their characteristics?

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Learn about European history through these vivid European history books for students! Explore Europe with these books for kids.

Disclaimer: Some of the following links are affiliate links. I make a small commission from some of the links on this site. You can read my full disclosure here.

European History Books By Country

Austria
Who Was Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart?
Learning about Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart might just change the way you look at music. You'll learn more about his first composed piece and more in this "Who Was" book.
The Habsburgs: The History of a Dynasty by Benjamin Curtis
Unique to history in European history, The Habsburgs were a ruling dynasty in Europe that stretched across many countries.

Denmark

12-year-old David has spent the majority of his life in a concentration camp and knows nothing of the outside world. When given the chance to escape, he seizes it - on a mysterious mission to Denmark. He has only a compass, a map he can barely read, and the distant memories of a friend to guide him on his journey. I Am David is poignant, memorable, thought-provoking, and the best children's novel I have ever read. Grab the book guide here.
Darkness over Denmark by Ellen Levine
The Danish Resistance during WWII saved the majority of its Jewish population. With courage, resistance, and teamwork, Denmark's role during the Holocaust played a pivotal role in history that more students should know about.
Number the Stars by Lois Lowry
Number the Stars was one of the first books about the Holocaust I remember reading. Instead of focusing on the horrors of the war, we learn about prejudice, racism, courage, and resilience from the point of view of Annemarie and her Jewish friend Ellen. This Newbery award-winning classic is highly recommended for all students. Grab the book guide here.

France
Who Was? Series The Invention of Hugo Cabret by Brian Selznick
This vivid Caldecott award winner mixes text with beautiful illustrations as we dive into the life of Hugo, an orphan living in the walls of a Parisian train station. Hugo believes he is receiving a hidden message from his deceased father and is determined to find the meaning. There's also a movie.
The Family Under the Bridge by Natalie Savage Carlson
The Family Under the Bridge is a Newbery Honor award winner about an old man living in Paris. He is living under a bridge when a mom and her three children came into his life, changing it forever.
The Lacemaker and the Princess by Kimberly Brubaker Bradley
Life can change in the blink of an eye and it easily did for eleven-year-old Isabelle, the lacemaker in the town of Versailles, France. After meeting Marie Antoinette, Isabelle receives a new job: a companion to the queen's daughter.

Allies tells the story of D-Day through multiple perspectives - a Canadian paratrooper, a girl in the French resistance, an American soldier, an African-American medic, and more. It emphasizes the importance of teamwork, especially in a time of war. Grab the book guide here.
The Journal of Scott Pendleton Collins: A World War II Soldier by Walter Dean Myers
The "Journal" series is a "boy" companion to the Dear America series. In this story, Scott Collins is an American soldier who shares his story of the Battle of Normandy, D-Day.
The Horrible Histories of France by Terry Deary
If there was ever a book that revealed the truth of history in France, this book is it! All of the "Horrible Histories" books are perfect for kids who think they don't like history. 🙂
France: Travel Guide for Kids
Learning about France has never been so easy. This travel guide for kids will help them learn about tidbits from France.

Germany
Who Was? Series Why Beethoven Threw the Stew by Steven Isserlis
Beethoven was a deaf composer whose works have remained classics for centuries. Although this book isn't just about him, this is a fun introduction of classical composers for younger students.
Emil and the Detectives by Erich Kastner
Set in Berlin, this book will take you on a fun adventure. Emil has the time of his life as he races through Berlin and teams up with a few detectives.
Please view my Holocaust book recommendations here.
Greece
Percy Jackson series by Rick Riordan
The fictional Percy Jackson series has been loved by millions and serve as an introduction to Greek mythology. Riordan's written many sequels and spin-offs to this multi-faceted series.
The Iliad by Homer (Classic Starts)
Set during the siege of Troy, this book has plenty of battles, duels, and characters than ever before. What an awesome European History adventure to go on in Greece.
DK Eyewitnesses: Ancient Greece by Anne Pearson
This series talks about how Greece made war and worshiped their very own Gods. The illustrations in this book are amazing!

Holland
Diary of a Young Girl by Anne Frank
Most of us have heard of Anne Frank. This book is a firsthand look at what life was like for a young girl in hiding during World War II. Because of some content issues, I'd recommend it for middle school students and up.
The Hiding Place by Corrie ten Boom (There is also a children's chapter book by Janet Benge)
Originally written for adults, The Hiding Place is a classic that is appropriate for middle school students too. Corrie ten Boom and her family sheltered several Jews during the Holocaust. Although she and her sister are sent to a concentration camp, their faith never waivers.
God's Secret Agent (Brother Andrew) by Janet Benge
God's Secret Agent is about Andrew Van Der Bijl from the Netherlands smuggled Bibles behind the Iron Curtain. His story of faith and resilience makes this one of my favorite Christian memoirs. I'd also recommend his memoir, God's Smuggler.

Iceland
Who Was? Series Wild Emm - Child of Iceland by Written by Anne Lane
Join a curious and energetic child doing sheep round-ups in Iceland and explore the landscape and all the country has to offer.

Ireland
Nory Ryan's Song and Maggie's Door by Patricia Reilly Giff
I loved Nory Ryan's Song and its sequel Maggie's Door as a child. Told from the perspective of 12-year-old Nory growing up during the Irish Potato Famine, this is a story of adventure, survival, and hope. Maggie's Door shares Nory's story as she and her family emigrate to America to her sister Maggie's home. The covers are somewhat outdated, but these were some of the best-written works of historical fiction I've read.
Black Potatoes by Susan Campbell Bartoletti
Imagine all of the food we have available today. This wasn't always the case. It is so interesting to read about Black Potatoes and discover the blight attacks on potato crops in 1845 in Ireland. Losing friends and starving was common for a while, but Irish people found a way to overcome it.
Horrible Histories of Ireland by Terry Deary
History wasn't always pretty. Horrible Histories of Ireland tells us of some of the wars, famines, and sieges.

Italy
Who Was? Series Stones in Water by Donna Jo Napoli
One minute Robert is heading off to the movies and the next minute he's in a brutal work camp. There is a lot of tragedy but triumph in this story.

Norway
Snow Treasure by Marie McSwigan
No one knew how WWII would impact Norway. However, this is an amazing story of how about nine million dollars passed through the hands of the Nazis thanks to a young boy. This book is set during WWII but is not graphic or violent in any way. Instead, it is a tribute to a group of courageous children.
The Winter Fortress by Neal Bascomb
Striking the blow to an atomic bomb in Norway, this story involves letters, diaries, and a secret document to help tell this story.
You Wouldn't Want to Be a Viking Explorer by Andrew Langley
European History wouldn't be complete without this book about vikings. Vikings are an intricate part of Norway's history. This series is great for ages 8-12 and is great for reluctant readers.
The Life and Times of Erik the Red (Biography from Ancient Civilizations Series) by Earle Rice
Life began in Norway for Erik Thorvaldsson, known as Erik the Red, but he ultimately helped the world to discover Greenland.

Poland
The Trumpeter of Krakow by Eric Kelly
The Great Tarnov Crystal has caused quite an issue in medieval Krakow, Poland. Joseph needs to be able to protect the crystal from plundering Tarters. This story received the Newbery winner in 1928.
Escape from Warsaw/The Silver Sword by Ian Serraillier
This book tells of the amazing history of three siblings during World War II in this adventure. This book has been published under two titles, Escape From Warsaw and The Silver Sword.
Please view my Holocaust book recommendations here.
Russia
Breaking Stalin's Nose by Eugene Yelchin
Breaking Stalin's Nose received a Newbery Honor book in 2011. Set in the 1940s, six-year-old Sasha has a fascination with Stalin. His world view changes after his father, a loyal Communist, is arrested. Dark history from the perspective of children is always interesting and this book does a great job with introducing communism to younger readers.
Sword Enemies by Carol Matas
I would really only recommend this for grades 7+ because of some content, but I did find this a unique story worth telling. During Russia in the late 1800s, Jews suffered many anti-Semitic attacks (pogroms) in Eastern Europe. The country's czar was forcibly kidnapping young Jewish boys for his army, and most didn't survive. This is the fictional story of two "survivors" - who are both sworn enemies and must work together to survive. Although both boys survive, they never do really make amends.

Spain
Who Was? Series
Switzerland

In this beloved children's classic, Heidi is a young orphan sent to live with her grandfather in the Swiss Alps. There are also several movie adaptions that can be watched afterward.
Children of the Alps by Johanna Spyri
Children of the Alps is an older story that might be hard to find. There are 3 stories in this book. Each story is interesting and has a few layers of history in them.

Miscellaneous Titles For Your Study Of Europe
DK Eyewitnesses: Castles by Christopher Gravett
Have you ever imagined living in a castle? This DK Eyewitnesses book breaks down the history of European castles by country.
DK Eyewitnesses: Medieval Europe by Andrew Langley
The Middle Ages ran from the end of the Dark Ages to the Renaissance in the 15th century. DK Eyewitness Medieval Life offers an in-depth look at life during that era. It covers several different perspectives from both the town and the country and for the peasants and the aristocracy of the era.

Want Even More Resources For Studying Europe?

Check out this Europe Unit Study! This comprehensive, 240-page unit study goes in-depth to the culture, languages, geography, history, landmarks, and tourism of five different European countries: England, Germany, France, Italy, and Russia.

Each of the five unit studies included are highly interactive and contain book, movie, person, and topic resource lists so your students can learn through several different forms of media. All five studies also have 8-9 different subjects, allowing students to explore the country through its music, art, animals, geography, and more! To tap into students' artsy side, the interactive notebooks provide a creative way to learn some fast facts about the country. STEM projects engage students who love to learn in a hands-on and memorable way. This unit study also includes two picture book study guides and some cheat sheets to help students remember things about the country. As a bonus, 10 pages of guided research sheets are also included. Your students are sure to enjoy the Europe Unit Study.

Check it out on the Learn in Color shop and use code LOVETOLEARN for 20% off.

Samantha is an entrepreneur and a former homeschool student from Indiana, USA. When not blogging, Samantha can be found reading about WWII, trying to speak Hebrew, and wasting time on Pinterest. Her work can be found on Free Homeschool Deals, Unigo, True Aim Education, Encouraging Moms at Home, and more.

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European History Books for Kids | Books About Europe

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Learn about European history through these vivid European history books for students! Explore Europe with these books for kids. Disclaimer: Some of the following links are affiliate links. I make a small commission from some of the links on this site. You can read my full disclosure here.

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The best middle grade books set in Europe immerse you in European culture. I didn't know how much I loved traveling via middle grade books until I read some middle grade books that do it well. Tanya Guerrero's How to Make Friends with the Sea is one of those books (it's set in Manilla, Philippines).

Today's picks are all set in Europe! I've included books set in a variety of European cities from London to Barcelona, to Paris, to Brussels - and even Florence, Italy! Whether they're on vacation, moving to a new country, on a spy adventure, or time travel mission, these kids bring the excitement to Europe.

If you're a fan of Europe, these middle grade books set in Europe are just what the doctor ordered.

21 Best Middle Grade Books Set in Europe

Here are 21 best middle grade books set in Europe:

The 12 Dares of Christa (Florence, Paris, & London)

Christa is a holiday junkie. What's not to love? There's decorations! Gifts! Caroling with friends! But thanks to her parents' recent separation, Christa's favorite time of year is now filled with heartache. And when her mom announces that she's taking her on a mother-daughter trip to Europe over winter vacation, Christa knows she should be excited. She just can't imagine spending the yuletide season without her dad.

However, waiting at her hotel in Italy is a special package from her father: the first of twelve dares that take Christa to landmarks in three beautiful countries and introduce her to people who will show her that hope is alive in the strangest of places.

I Am Defiance (Germany)

Jenni L. Walsh delivers a gripping story about a real-life youth resistance group in World War II Germany, and about the power of thinking for yourself in the fight against hatred.

Brigitte tries not to ask questions. They don't seem very welcome at her League of German Girls meetings, where she and her friends learn about their duties to Hitler's war effort.

But she can't help asking questions when a mysterious pamphlet appears in her mailbox: a pamphlet full of words like resistance and freedom, from a group that calls itself the White Rose. Brigitte's father and older sister, Angelika, seem to agree with the forbidden papers - an opinion that is dangerous even to whisper at home. And when Angelika becomes involved with secret resistance efforts, Brigitte's questions only bloom.

Could Angelika be connected to the White Rose? Is Brigitte's family in danger of being arrested? And if she chooses a side, will Brigitte be able to take a stand?

A Night Divided (Germany)

A stunning thriller from NYT bestselling author Jennifer A. Nielsen about a girl who must escape to freedom after the Berlin Wall divides her family between east and west. A Night Divided joins the Scholastic Gold line, which features award-winning and beloved novels. Includes exclusive bonus content!With the rise of the Berlin Wall, Gerta finds her family suddenly divided. She, her mother, and her brother Fritz live on the eastern side, controlled by the Soviets. Her father and middle brother, who had gone west in search of work, cannot return home. Gerta knows it is dangerous to watch the wall, yet she can't help herself. She sees the East German soldiers with their guns trained on their own citizens; she, her family, her neighbors and friends are prisoners in their own city.But one day on her way to school, Gerta spots her father on a viewing platform on the western side, pantomiming a peculiar dance. Gerta concludes that her father wants her and Fritz to tunnel beneath the wall, out of East Berlin. However, if they are caught, the consequences will be deadly. No one can be trusted. Will Gerta and her family find their way to freedom?

Words on Fire (Lithuania)

Danger is never far from Audra's family farm in Lithuania. She always avoids the occupying Russian Cossack soldiers, who insist that everyone must become Russian - they have banned Lithuanian books, religion, culture, and even the language. But Audra knows her parents are involved in something secret and perilous.In June 1893, when Cossacks arrive abruptly at their door, Audra's parents insist that she flee, taking with her an important package and instructions for where to deliver it. But escape means abandoning her parents to a terrible fate.As Audra embarks on a journey to deliver the mysterious package, she faces unimaginable risks, and soon she becomes caught up in a growing resistance movement. Can joining the underground network of book smugglers give Audra a chance to rescue her parents?

City Spies (Paris & Scotland)

Sara Martinez is a hacker. She recently broke into the New York City foster care system to expose her foster parents as cheats and lawbreakers. However, instead of being hailed as a hero, Sara finds herself facing years in a juvenile detention facility and banned from using computers for the same stretch of time. Enter Mother, a British spy who not only gets Sara released from jail but also offers her a chance to make a home for herself within a secret MI6 agency.

Operating out of a base in Scotland, the City Spies are five kids from various parts of the world. When they're not attending the local boarding school, they're honing their unique skills, such as sleight of hand, breaking and entering, observation, and explosives. All of these allow them to go places in the world of espionage where adults can't.

Before she knows what she's doing, Sara is heading to Paris for an international youth summit, hacking into a rival school's computer to prevent them from winning a million euros, dangling thirty feet off the side of a building, and trying to stop a villain...all while navigating the complex dynamics of her new team.

No one said saving the world was easy...

My Secret Guide to Paris (Paris, France)

Nora loves everything about Paris, from the Eiffel Tower to chocolat chaud. Of course, she's never actually been there - she's only visited through her Grandma Sylvia's stories. And just when they've finally planned a trip together, Grandma Sylvia is suddenly gone, taking Nora's dreams with her. Nora is crushed. She misses her grandmother terribly, but she still wants to see the city they both loved. So when Nora finds letters and a Paris treasure map among her Grandma Sylvia's things, she dares to dream again . . . She's not sure what her grandma wants her to find, but Nora knows there are wonderful surprises waiting for her in Paris. And maybe, amongst the croissants and macarons, she'll even find a way to heal her broken heart.

Sol Invictus (The Eye of Ra #2) (Rome, Italy)

Siblings John and Sarah barely made it home last time, but in their next time traveling adventure the challenge really heats up. Surrounded by clashing cultures on the ancient Roman frontier, they must fulfill their quest to unite the emperor with his enemy, an Alemanni barbarian, or risk being stuck in time forever.

Across the Pond (Scotland)

Callie can't wait for her new life to start. After a major friendship breakup in San Diego, moving overseas to Scotland gives her the perfect chance to reinvent herself. On top of that, she's going to live in a real-life castle!

But as romantic as life in a castle sounds, the reality is a little less comfortable: it's run-down, freezing, and crawling with critters. Plus, starting off on the wrong foot with the gardener's granddaughter doesn't help her nerves about making new friends. So she comes up with the perfect solution: she'll be homeschooled. Her parents agree, on one condition: she has to participate in a social activity.

A Place to Hang the Moon (United Kingdom)

It is 1940 and William, 12, Edmund, 11, and Anna, 9, aren't terribly upset by the death of the not-so-grandmotherly grandmother who has taken care of them since their parents died. But the children do need a guardian, and in the dark days of World War II London, those are in short supply, especially if they hope to stay together. Could the mass wartime evacuation of children from London to the countryside be the answer?

It's a preposterous plan, but off they go- keeping their predicament a secret, and hoping to be placed in a temporary home that ends up lasting forever. Moving from one billet to another, the children suffer the cruel trickery of foster brothers, the cold realities of outdoor toilets and the hollowness of empty stomachs. They find comfort in the village lending library, whose kind librarian, Nora Müller, seems an excellent choice of billet, except that her German husband's whereabouts are currently unknown, and some of the villagers consider her unsuitable.

The War That Saved My Life (United Kingdom)

Ten-year-old Ada has never left her one-room apartment. Her mother is too humiliated by Ada's twisted foot to let her outside. So when her little brother Jamie is shipped out of London to escape the war, Ada doesn't waste a minute-she sneaks out to join him.

So begins a new adventure for Ada, and for Susan Smith, the woman who is forced to take the two kids in. As Ada teaches herself to ride a pony, learns to read, and watches for German spies, she begins to trust Susan-and Susan begins to love Ada and Jamie. But in the end, will their bond be enough to hold them together through wartime? Or will Ada and her brother fall back into the cruel hands of their mother?

Agatha Oddly (United Kingdom)

Meet thirteen-year-old Agatha Oddly - a bold, determined heroine, and the star of a stylish new detective series.

Agatha Oddlow has been a detective for as long as she can remember - she's just been waiting for her first big case. And nothing gets bigger than saving the City of London from some strange goings-on.

With a scholarship to the prestigious St Regis School, a cottage in the middle of Hyde Park, a room full of beloved sleuthing novels, and a secret key that gives her access to a whole hidden side of London, Agatha is perfectly poised to solve the mystery of what's going on. But just who can she trust when no one is quite who they seem...

Murder Is Bad Manners (United Kingdom)

Two friends form a detective agency-and must solve their first murder case-in this "sharp-witted debut" ( Publishers Weekly, starred review) that is the first adventure in a brand-new middle grade mystery series set at a 1930s boarding school.

Daisy Wells and Hazel Wong are best friends at Deepdean School for Girls, and they both have a penchant for solving mysteries. In fact, outspoken Daisy is a self-described Sherlock Holmes, and she appoints wallflower Hazel as her own personal Watson when they form their own (secret!) detective agency. The only problem? They have nothing to investigate.

But that changes once Hazel discovers the body of their science teacher, Miss Bell-and the body subsequently disappears. She and Daisy are certain a murder must have taken place, and they can think of more than one person with a motive.

Determined to get to the bottom of the crime-and to prove that it happened-before the killer strikes again, Hazel and Daisy must hunt for evidence, spy on their suspects, and use all the cunning, scheming, and intuition they can muster. But will they succeed? And can their friendship stand the test?

Sweep: The Story of a Girl and Her Monster (United Kingdom)

It's been five years since the Sweep disappeared. Orphaned and alone, Nan Sparrow had no other choice but to work for a ruthless chimney sweep named Wilkie Crudd. She spends her days sweeping out chimneys. The job is dangerous and thankless, but with her wits and will, Nan has managed to beat the deadly odds time and time again.

When Nan gets stuck in a chimney fire, she fears the end has come. Instead, she wakes to find herself unharmed in an abandoned attic. And she is not alone. Huddled in the corner is a mysterious creature-a golem -made from soot and ash.

All You Knead Is Love (Spain)

Twelve-year-old Alba doesn't want to live with her estranged grandmother in Barcelona.But her mother needs her to be far, far away from their home in New York City. Because this is the year that her mother is going to leave Alba's abusive father. Hopefully. If she's strong enough to finally, finally do it.Alba is surprised to find that she loves Barcelona, forming a close relationship with her grandmother, meeting a supportive father figure, and making new friends. Most of all, she discovers a passion and talent for bread baking. When her beloved bakery is threatened with closure, Alba is determined to find a way to save it-and at the same time, she may just come up with a plan to make their family whole again.

Hero on a Bicycle (Florence, Italy)

Italy, 1944: Florence is occupied by Nazi forces. The Italian resistance movement has not given up hope, though - and neither have thirteen-year- old Paolo and his sister, Costanza. As their mother is pressured into harboring escaping POWs, Paolo and Costanza each find a part to play in opposing the German forces. Both are desperate to fight the occupation, but what can two siblings - with only a bicycle to help them - do against a whole army? Middle-grade fans of history and adventure will be riveted by the action and the vividly evoked tension of World War II.

Astrid the Unstoppable (Norway)

Speed and self-confidence, that's Astrid's motto. Nicknamed "the little thunderbolt," she loves to spend her days racing down the hillside on her sled, singing loudly as she goes, and visiting Gunnvald, her grumpy, septuagenarian best friend and godfather, who makes hot chocolate from real chocolate bars. She just wishes there were other children to share her hair-raising adventures with. But Astrid's world is about to be turned upside down by two startling arrivals to the village of Glimmerdal: first a new family, then a mysterious, towering woman who everyone seems to know but Astrid. It turns out that Gunnvald has been keeping a big secret from his goddaughter, one that will test their friendship to its limits. Astrid is not too happy about some of these upheavals in Glimmerdal - but, luckily, she has a plan to set things right.

Nowhere Boy (Belgium)

Fourteen-year-old Ahmed is stuck in a city that wants nothing to do with him. Newly arrived in Brussels, Belgium, Ahmed fled a life of uncertainty and suffering in Aleppo, Syria, only to lose his father on the perilous journey to the shores of Europe. Now Ahmed's struggling to get by on his own, but with no one left to trust and nowhere to go, he's starting to lose hope.

Then he meets Max, a thirteen-year-old American boy from Washington, D.C. Lonely and homesick, Max is struggling at his new school and just can't seem to do anything right. But with one startling discovery, Max and Ahmed's lives collide and a friendship begins to grow. Together, Max and Ahmed will defy the odds, learning from each other what it means to be brave and how hope can change your destiny.

Our Castle by the Sea (England)

Growing up in a lighthouse, 11-year-old Pet's world has been one of storms, secret tunnels, and stories about sea monsters. But now the country is at war and the clifftops are a terrifying battleground. Pet will need to muster all her bravery to uncover why her family is being torn apart.This is the story of a girl who is afraid and unnoticed. A girl who freezes with fear at the enemy planes ripping through the skies overheard. A girl who is somehow destined to become part of the strange, ancient legend of the Daughters of Stone.

Genevieve's War (France)

Despite the farm-work and her irritable grandmother Memé, Genevieve thinks she may have found a new home in Alsace, France, where she spent the summer of 1939. Without much to return to in New York, Gen is ready to see if this new life will make her happy.

But then World War II erupts. The Nazis conquer France.

Now everyone in Alsace must speak German, act German, and think German-or else. Even worse, a cold Nazi officer has commandeered a room in Memé's farmhouse-and he can tell that Gen and her grandmother aren't loyal to the Reich.

But Gen won't be cowed. And when her friend Rémy commits an act of sabotage, she hides him in the last place the Germans will look-in the attic, right above the Nazi's head.

The Art of Running Away (London)

Twelve-year-old Maisie is an artist. When she's in front of her sketchbook or apprenticing at Glenna's Portraits, the family-run art shop her grandmother started, the world makes sense. She doesn't think about Calum, her brother who mysteriously left home and cut ties with her family six years ago, or her parents' insistence that she "broaden her horizons" and try something new-something that isn't art.

But when Glenna's Portraits falls on hard times, Maisie's plan to take over the shop when she's older and become a lifelong artist starts to crumble. In desperation to make things right, Maisie runs away to London to reconnect with her adult brother, hoping he might be the key to saving the shop. But as Maisie learns about her family's past from Calum, she starts to rethink everything she's ever known. Maisie must decide not only if saving her family's art shop is worth it, but if she can forgive her parents for the mistakes they've made

Glitter Gets Everywhere (London)

After Kitty's mother dies on an inappropriately sunny Tuesday, all Kitty wants is for her life to go back to "normal"-whatever that will mean without her mum. Instead, her dad announces that he, Kitty, and her sister are moving from their home in London to New York City, and Kitty will need to say goodbye to the places and people that help keep her mother's memory alive.

New York is every bit as big and bustling as Kitty's heard, and as she adjusts to life there and befriends a blue-haired boy, she starts to wonder if her memories of her mum don't need to stay in one place-if there's a way for them to be with Kitty every day, everywhere.
Many thanks to our sponsor, Tanya Guerrero and her forthcoming middle grade book, All You Knead Is Love (Out March 30, set in Barcelona!). Thank you for supporting the authors and brands that keep Reading Middle Grade free for readers. Have you read any middle grade books set in Europe? Which ones did you enjoy? I'd love more fun recs!
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21 Exciting Middle Grade Books Set in Europe (Barcelona, Scotland, etc.)

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The best middle grade books set in Europe immerse you in European culture. I didn't know how much I loved traveling via middle grade books until I read some middle grade books that do it well. Tanya Guerrero's How to Make Friends with the Sea is one of those books (it's set in Manilla, Philippines).

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Books that Teach European History Blog - Think Tank Teacher

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Your social studies students will love learning about European History with these books that focus on History in Europe.

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Our editors independently research, test, and recommend the best products; you can learn more about our review process here. We may receive commissions on purchases made from our chosen links.

While many history books focus on a limited area, such as the Vietnam War, other texts examine far broader subjects, and there are plenty of volumes narrating Europe's past from prehistory until today. While lacking in detail, these books provide valuable insights into long-term development while avoiding the often nation-centric interpretations of shorter studies.

Europe: A History by Norman Davies

This massive tome, which registers well over a thousand pages, explains the history of Europe from the ice age until the late 1990s, in an easily read and wholly entertaining style. An extensive appendix, containing maps and charts of information, creates a useful reference source. This best-selling work has been criticized for a bias towards Poland, but this corrects merely a deficiency in the genre.

The Penguin History of Europe by J. M. Roberts

The shorter alternative to Davies' work (at half the size, but not half the price), this Penguin history stretches from the first peoples in Europe to the late nineteen-nineties. A selection of maps and chronologies are liberally scattered throughout the text, which is erudite and balanced.

Vanished Kingdoms: The History of Half-Forgotten Europe by Norman Davies

Norman Davies specializes in the history of Eastern Europe, a fascinating region often absent in Anglocentric texts. In Vanished Kingdoms, he roams across the European continent to pick out states that don't exist on modern maps and are often missing in the popular consciousness: Burgundy for example. He's also a thrilling companion.

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Our editors independently research, test, and recommend the best products; you can learn more about our review process here. We may receive commissions on purchases made from our chosen links. While many history books focus on a limited area, such as the Vietnam War, other texts examine far broader subjects, and there are plenty of volumes narrating Europe's past from prehistory until today.

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Amazon Best Sellers: Best Children's European History Books

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Discover the best Children's European History Books in Best Sellers. Find the top 100 most popular items in Amazon Kindle Store Best Sellers.

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Who wants to do a little armchair traveling with their kids? ( Raises hand!) Making this list of children's books to take you around the world almost overwhelmed me but I managed to get through it! It was reeeeeeeellllly hard to narrow some of the countries down to just one book, but I managed.

A few notes on my choices. In no way is the book I chose meant to be representative of the country. That would be impossible. I've also chosen a variety of fiction, modern, historical, biographies, folktales, and even poetry to add interest. Most of the titles are fiction and some are based on true events. For those of you who want more nonfiction oriented books, those can easily be found by Dewey Decimal at your local library.

Note: I'm sure your favorite country is missing from the list! This list of 50 folktale books from around the world have many other choices, but eave your recommendations in the comments.

I've also written much shorter reviews than usual -- I would never have finished the list, otherwise! -- and left off book covers, so as not to make the post too unwieldy. (Note: this post contains affiliate links. Purchases made through these links may earn a commission for this blog.)

Happy Travels!
MORE: Middle Grade Books Set Around the World MORE: African folktales for kids
Turn the Pages to Discover Africa

Read Your Way Around Asia

MORE: Multicultural books for babies and toddlers

Take a Bookish Trip to Australia/Oceania

New Zealand: Elizabeth Queen of the Seas by Lynne Cox. The true story of an elephant seal who decides to make her home on Christchurch's Avon River.
Iceland:
Travel to Europe by Book

Austria: A Gift for Mama by Linda Ravin Lodding. In 1890s Vienna, Oskar has a single coin to buy a gift for his mama. In this heartwarming story, he makes trade after trade with the important historical people of the city until he has just the right gift.
MORE: Scandinavian Folktales for Kids
The Problem With Chickens byBruce McMillan. A group of ladies buy a flock of chickens but notice that the chickens start to act like the ladies! When the chickens also stop laying eggs, the ladies come up with a plan to make the chickens act like chickens again -- with some amusing results.

MORE: Irish Folktales and Celtic Legends

Russia: Peter and the Wolf by Sergei Prokofiev. I may just be including this book as an excuse to get you and your kids to listen to a recording of the music!
MORE: Native American folktales for kids
MORE: Tomten books for kids

Picture Books Set in North America

Caribbean Islands: (unnamed country) Jimmy the Greatest! by Jairo Buitrago. Jimmy dreams of being a boxer like his hero Muhammed Ali, whom he studies. Jimmy decides that being the greatest! means he can stay where he is an help his community by opening a boxing ring and library.

MORE: American Tall Tales and Folktales

Head Down to South America

Peru: Love and Roast Chicken: A Trickster Tale from The Andes ( Andes Mountains). In an effort to avoid being eaten by Tío Antonio the fox, a wily guinea pig named Cuy manages to convince him that he needs to brace himself under a rock in order to keep the sky from falling.

MORE: Latin American Folktales for Kids

Stay Warm While You Visit the Poles

BONUS! 2 more books for those of you who like the far reaches of the globe.

The Lights that Dance in the Night by Yuval Zommer. A plethora of wildlife and Indigenous peoples gaze in wonder as the lights describe how they move across the sky and create magic on their journey. Luminous.

Antarctic Antics: A Book of Penguin Poems by Judy Sierra. Let's round out this list with some poems to make your kids giggle. Who doesn't love penguins playing around? No one. That's who.

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Travel Around the World with Picture Books

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Be an adventurous armchair traveler and read around the world with more than 50 these diverse children's books to teach them about different countries.

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The Tulare Historical Museum has made a habit of these celebrations after opening in 1985 on the site of Tulare's first permanent public-school house located at 444 W. Tulare Avenue. The museum's beautifully crafted exhibits showcase Tulare's unique history, including the Yokuts Indians, the area's first inhabitants and the founding of Tulare by the Southern Pacific Railroad.

The museum features special collections dedicated to Tulare's hometown heroes, including Olympic champions Bob Mathias and Sim Iness. The museum also houses the Manuel Toledo Military Collection, one of the most comprehensive military collections in the Central Valley. In addition to offering guided tours of these exhibits, the museum has a scheduled calendar of events with temporary art, historical, cultural and holiday exhibits on view in its Heritage Art Gallery and Depot Gallery.

For more information on the event and the museum, visit the Tulare Historical Museum's website at www.tularehistoricalmuseum.org .

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Tulare Historical Museum celebrates Portuguese Heritage Month - The Sun-Gazette Newspaper

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The Tulare Historical Museum has made a habit of these celebrations after opening in 1985 on the site of Tulare's first permanent public-school house located at 444 W. Tulare Avenue. The museum's beautifully crafted exhibits showcase Tulare's unique history, including the Yokuts Indians, the area's first inhabitants and the founding of Tulare by the Southern Pacific Railroad.

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School and/or department events and activities throughout our district will be added to this page, as submitted. Please contact each school directly or visit their website to learn more about their events.

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Equity and Diversity / French American Heritage Month 2022

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School and/or department events and activities throughout our district will be added to this page, as submitted. Please contact each school directly or visit their website to learn more about their events.

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Overview

Portugal, officially called the Portuguese Republic, is the westernmost country of continental Europe. It is bordered on the east and north by Spain, with which it shares the Iberian Peninsula, and on the west and south by the Atlantic Ocean. It is about the size of Ohio, having an area of 35,553 square miles (92,082 square kilometers), and measuring 360 miles at its longest point and 140 miles at its widest. Portugal also includes the Azores (Açores) and the Madeira Islands in the North Atlantic Ocean and Macao, a tiny territory on the southern coast of China.

Portugal's current population of roughly 9.9 million people is decreasing. Major cities are the capital Lisbon, Porto, and Amadora. However, twothirds of the people live in rural areas. Nearly 99 percent of the population is of Portuguese origin; the largest ethnic minorities include Cape Verdeans, Brazilians, the Spanish, British, and Americans. Although there is no official religion in Portugal, 94.5 percent of the people are Roman Catholic. Other Christian groups include Protestants, Apostolic Catholics, and Jehovah's Witnesses. There are small minorities of Jews and Muslims. The country's official language is Portuguese, and the national flag has a field of green on the left with a wider field of red on the right; the national emblem is centered on the line dividing the two colors. Portugal's chief products are grapes, potatoes, hogs, beef cattle, corn, sardines, tuna, textiles, paper products, electrical machinery, cork products, ceramics, and shoes.

EARLY HISTORY

The early history of Portugal saw occupation by Iberians from North Africa and then by Celts who migrated from France. Phoenicians and Carthaginians later established themselves in southern Portugal. After the Second Punic War (218-201 B.C. ) the Roman domination of Portugal began. The Lusitanians, a warlike Celtic tribe under the leadership of Viriathus, fiercely opposed the Roman armies, but the latter triumphed. Roman contributions to Portugal included roads, buildings, and the Latin language, from which Portuguese developed. Portugal's name derives from Portus Cale, a pre-Roman or Roman settlement near the mouth of the Douro River, where Porto is now located. In the fifth century A.D. , as Roman control of the peninsula weakened, the land was overrun by Suevi who were followed by the Visigoths. In 711 the Muslims invaded the peninsula, and Christian forces spent the next 500 years trying to expel them. To fight off the African Almoravids, King Alfonso VI of León and Castile enlisted the aid of Henry of Burgundy, whom he rewarded with the title of Count of Portucale and the hand in marriage of his illegitimate daughter Teresa. Henry's son, Alfonso Henriques, claimed the title Alfonso I, King of Portugal, in 1139. By 1179 his kingdom, occupying the northern third of present-day Portugal, was recognized as autonomous and separate from Castile.

Alfonso I and his son Sancho I reconquered the remaining Portuguese territory from the Muslims. When Sancho II died in 1248 without leaving an heir to the throne, the Count of Boulogne declared himself King Alfonso III. He was responsible for moving the capital from Coimbra to Lisbon, for lessening the power of the church in his land, and for convoking the Cortes at Leiria (1254) at which the commoners were represented for the first time.

Alfonso III's son Diniz, who ruled Portugal from 1279 to 1325, built a navy, founded the University of Coimbra (1290) which was first located in Lisbon, and showed interest in literature, shipbuilding, and agriculture, for which he came to be called the rei lavradór (farmer king). His wife, Elizabeth, who worked to maintain peace in Portugal, was known as the Holy Queen ( rainha santa ) and was later canonized as St. Elizabeth of Portugal. After the death of Ferdinand I in 1383, his wife Leonor Telles married their daughter Beatriz to the King of Castile. There was disagreement as to whether Beatriz should be heiress to the throne, and in 1385 the Cortes chose John, an illegitimate son of Peter I (the Cruel), a former king of Portugal, to rule as John I. John was Master of a religious-military order, the Order of Aviz.

John's son, known as Prince Henry the Navigator, utilized the resources of geographers and navigators to launch a series of explorations beyond the frontiers of Portugal. With the peninsula now reconquered from the Muslims, the Portuguese drive for expansion continued out of a desire to explore unknown lands, to seek a trade route for transporting spices from India, and to spread the Christian religion. Henry financed the expeditions that discovered Madeira and the Azores; these islands were uninhabited but were quickly colonized, and they still belong to Portugal.

Under Manuel I (1495-1521) Vasco da Gama reached India and Pedro Àlvares Cabral discovered Brazil. Manuel, who married Isabella, the eldest daughter of Spain's Ferdinand and Isabella, never realized his dream of uniting Spain and Portugal under his power. As part of his marriage contract with Isabella, he was required to rid Portugal of the Jews who had taken refuge there after being expelled from Spain. A few were allowed to emigrate, but most were forcibly converted to Christianity. Manuel's son, John III (1521-1557) established the Inquisition in Portugal. In 1580, when Portugal again found itself with no heir to the throne upon the death of Cardinal Henry, last of the House of Aviz, Philip II of Spain seized control as Philip I of Portugal (1580-1598). Portugal remained under Spain's control for 60 years until John, Duke of Bragança, defeated the Spanish and founded his own dynasty as John IV in 1640. The Portuguese had increasingly resented Spanish rule because of taxation and because the promises Philip had made to maintain Portugal's autonomy and to name only Portuguese to government posts were soon broken. Spain finally recognized Portuguese independence in 1668.

THE EIGHTEENTH CENTURY

During the eighteenth century, wealth from Brazil began to pour into the country. Gold was discovered in Minas Gerais in 1693, and Brazil became a source of diamonds beginning in 1728. Great wealth was extracted by the Portuguese, and a 20 percent tax on it maintained their monarchs. John V (1706-1750) sought to establish an absolute monarchy. His son Joseph (1750-1777) was weak and allowed his minister Sebastião José de Carvalho e Melo, the Marquis of Pombal, to run the government in a more enlightened fashion. The latter is credited with the competent governmental response to the earthquake that leveled Lisbon in 1755. Pombal also ordered the expulsion of the Jesuits in 1759 and the consequent reform of the educational system. In 1762 Spain invaded Portugal, and peace was not achieved until 1777 through the Treaty of San Ildefonso.

THE NINETEENTH CENTURY

When Napoleon declared war on England, Portugal, allied by treaties, was drawn into the struggle. In 1806 Napoleon issued a decree intended to close all continental ports to British ships, and he later invaded Portugal to ensure that his decree was carried out there. As the French army neared Lisbon, the royal family boarded British ships, which carried them to Rio de Janeiro where they remained for 14 years. Meanwhile, the Portuguese and British armies, under the Duke of Wellington, drove the French from the country. Portugal made peace with France in 1814. In 1815 Brazil's status was elevated to that of a kingdom united with Portugal. The royal family did not seem anxious to return to Portugal, and when William Carr Beresford, the British commander in charge in Portugal traveled to Brazil to convince John VI to return, the Portuguese drew up a national constitution and would not allow Beresford back into the country. John VI returned in 1821 and swore to uphold the constitution. His eldest son Peter declared Brazil independent from Portugal in 1822 and became its emperor. John VI recognized Brazil's independence in 1825. John's death in 1826 marked the beginning of a period of political strife that lasted until after mid-century, when party government was established. The main parties were the Historicals and the more moderate Regenerators. The latter part of the century was occupied with disputes over Portugal's claims to territories in Africa.

THE TWENTIETH CENTURY

In the early twentieth century, the republican movement grew in strength. In 1908, King Charles I and his heir, Louis Philip, were assassinated. King Manuel II (1908-1910) was to be the last monarch, for a republican revolution began on October 4, 1910, and Manuel was forced to seek refuge in England until his death in 1932. The revolutionary government gave the vote to adult males and drew up a constitution. It expelled religious orders from the country and disestablished the Roman Catholic church. It founded new universities in Lisbon and Porto. But the republicans were divided into many factions, and there was great political instability. Within 15 years, 45 different regimes held the reins of government. Portugal's bad economic situation became even worse through joining the Allies in World War I (1914-1918). In 1926 the army overthrew the government and set up a dictatorship under General António Oscar de Fragoso Carmona who named António de Oliveira Salazar, an economics professor at the University of Coimbra, as his minister of finance. After his successful handling of the budget, Salazar was named prime minister in 1932. As dictator he managed to keep Portugal out of World War II; he improved the country's roads and its means of transportation; he promoted new industries and other development. However, his government was very conservative; the people enjoyed few rights and were under surveillance by the secret police. The rich enjoyed economic advantages under his regime, but the poor got poorer. Salazar suffered a stroke in mid-1968 and died two years later. Marcelo Caetano then became head of the government and liberalized many governmental policies, but he did not go far enough or fast enough for many Portuguese. Emigration increased, inflation grew, and the country faced a grave economic crisis.

In 1974 a group of military officers, under the leadership of Otelo Saraiva de Carvalho, overthrew Caetano's government; this is often called the "Captains' Revolution" because it was planned by military officers dissatisfied with Portugal's long wars to retain possession of her colonies in Africa. One of the first things accomplished by the new junta called the Armed Forces Movement (Movimento das Forças Armadas) was the granting of independence to Portuguese colonies in Africa. The government also reestablished democratic freedoms. General elections were held in 1976; the government became more stable but had to face the problems of rapid inflation and high unemployment. The constitution was revised in 1982 to limit the powers of the president. Portugal is a member of the United Nations and of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO). In 1986 Portugal became a member of the European Common Market.

THE FIRST PORTUGUESE IN AMERICA

The Portuguese came to America very early. In fact, Portuguese explorers may have reached the Antilles before Columbus. João Rodrigues Cabrillo arrived in San Diego Bay on September 9, 1542, and was the first European to explore the land that is now California. Portuguese Jews emigrated early to America as well as to other countries to escape persecution in their native land. Mathias de Sousa is the first Portuguese immigrant on record; he arrived in Maryland in 1634. Aaron Lopez, another Portuguese Jew, played an important role in introducing the sperm-oil industry to the Newport, Rhode Island, area in the eighteenth century, and Abraham de Lyon introduced the cultivation of grapes into Georgia in 1737. Portuguese from the Azores and the Cape Verde Islands manned New England's whaling ships. They signed on as low-paid laborers in order to avoid military service and to escape the poverty in which they lived at home. Many of them settled in New England, especially around New Bedford, Massachusetts.

IMMIGRATION TRENDS

Portugal has one of the highest rates of emigration in Europe; and until the middle of the twentieth century, most Portuguese emigrants (about 80 percent of them) went to Brazil. The Portuguese began to arrive in the United States in relatively large numbers around 1870. The majority of early Portugese immigrants were men from the Azores, a group of islands and islets in the North Atlantic Ocean. These men were largely recruited to work on American whaling ships. There was also immigration to the Sandwich Islands (now the state of Hawaii), where the Portuguese went originally to labor on sugar plantations. The majority of the immigrants came to the United States seeking a higher standard of living; they were not drawn by educational opportunity or political or religious freedom. Besides wanting to escape poverty, high taxes, and the lack of economic advancement at home, many males emigrated to avoid eight years of service in Portugal's army. Natural disasters also stimulated many to seek opportunities to live and work elsewhere. The drought in the Cape Verde Islands in 1904 and the volcanic eruptions and earthquakes in the Azores in 1958 sent waves of people abroad. Most of the early Portuguese immigrants to the United States were from the Azores; continental Portuguese did not start arriving in large numbers until the beginning of this century.

Once substantial immigration to the United States started, it increased steadily, peaking between 1910 and 1920. In 1917 the United States government instituted a literacy test requiring that people over the age of 16 had to be able to read and write some language at a basic level in order to settle here. Since the literacy rate in Portugal was extremely low, this test effectively barred many Portuguese from entry; of the Portuguese immigrants admitted shortly before the literacy test was instated, nearly 70 percent were illiterate. In addition, the U.S. Immigration Act of 1924 established a quota system that allowed only a small number of Portuguese immigrants to enter per year. The Great Depression further discouraged immigration to the United States because economic advancement was the Portuguese's main goal. Emigration from the Azores increased in 1958, however, when the Azorean Refugee Act allowed 4,800 to emigrate after the volcanic destruction that took place there. Later, the Immigration and Nationality Act of 1965 abolished the quota system and consequently spurred a sharp increase in Portuguese immigration. At that time the Portuguese began to enter this country at the rate of 11,000 to 12,000 per year. This rate started to decline in the early 1980s and has now stabilized at 3,000 to 4,000 per year. Some of these have returned to Portugal either because they preferred living there or because they were unable to adjust to their new environment. Of those who returned to live in the Azores, at least, the impressions of their life in this country, which they have related to their friends and families, have created a favorable attitude toward the United States. The many Portuguese immigrants who remained here have contributed substantially to American society.

SETTLEMENT PATTERNS

At first the Portuguese tended to settle near their ports of entry. The greatest number made their homes in New England (especially in Massachusetts and Rhode Island), New York, central California, and Hawaii. A small group settled in central Illinois. The Homestead Act encouraged some Portuguese to go west to obtain ownership of land. Those who settled on the East Coast also spread into Connecticut and New Jersey, and most recent immigrants find homes in Connecticut, New York, or New Jersey. The number of Portuguese immigrants now settling in California or Hawaii has been greatly reduced. Because so many Portuguese arrived without skills or education, they tended to remain for a long time in the lower middle class or middle class unless they attained the background necessary for advancement.

Acculturation and Assimilation

The Portuguese who settled in Hawaii tended to lose their ethnic identity fastest. From the sugar plantations they moved to the large cities where they became involved in trades and service industries. Others went into farming. They tended to intermarry with other ethnic groups and quickly lost their feeling of Portuguese identity.

In California there was a greater effort to maintain ethnicity. The Portuguese immigrants generally settled in rural areas where they farmed or operated dairies. They hired other Portuguese as hands on their farms, and under these semi-isolated conditions, it was easier to preserve their old customs. Fathers were the decision makers of the household. They allowed their daughters to attend school only as long as the law required; after that they kept them at home. Boys enjoyed more freedom than girls, but they also tended to quit school as soon as possible to work on the farm or dairy; and they were expected to marry Portuguese girls. When the rate of arrival of new immigrants slowed and American-born descendants far outnumbered the foreign-born Portuguese, assimilation began. Organizations such as the Cabrillo Civic Clubs, however, were formed to preserve pride in the Portuguese heritage.

The situation on the East Coast was different. There the Portuguese, mainly of rural origin, settled in urban areas. This change in environment forced family life and attitudes to change. When times were bad at the mills, women had to go to work to help support the family. In general, children were expected to leave school at the first opportunity to go to work to contribute to the family's maintenance as well. This tended to keep the Portuguese in the lower middle class, but it freed the women from their traditionally subordinate role and granted them more independence.

Wherever they settled, Portuguese immigrants had to face many disconcerting changes in their new environment. Rather than living in the same town or even the same neighborhood as the rest of their family-grandparents, aunts, uncles, cousins-upon whom they could depend for help when they needed it, they found themselves alone and without the support system that the extended family could provide. Unlike the milieu to which they were accustomed, in the United States education was compulsory for children, women were more emancipated, young people were freer to select the mates of their choice, families were more democratic rather than being dominated by the father, and a generation gap often existed within families because the young had developed better language proficiency and had attended public schools where they were exposed to the attitudes of their American peers.

TRADITIONS, CUSTOMS, AND BELIEFS

The Portuguese have a variety of folk beliefs, many of which coincide with those of other cultures. Some believe that certain people have the power of the evil eye, which endows them with the ability to cast evil spells on others by the use of their eyes. One may ward off the evil eye by making a gesture called "the fig" in which one closes the fist and sticks the thumb between the first and second fingers. For many the devil is real and has the power to work evil. The word "devil" ( diabo ) is avoided for fear of evoking him; he may also be kept away by making the sign of the cross. Fridays and the number 13 are considered bad luck. Some people trust their health to witch doctors called curandeiros, who attempt to cure illnesses with herbal medicines or magic. These beliefs disappear or are looked upon as superstitions as immigrants are absorbed into American society.

When people are far from their native countries, they long to preserve some of the customs from their youth that had special significance to them. Early in the twentieth century, Portuguese immigrants revived three celebrations from their homelands-the Festival of the Blessed Sacrament, the Festival of the Holy Ghost, and the Senhor da Pedra Festival.

FESTIVAL OF THE BLESSED SACRAMENT

This celebration from the island of Madeira was initiated in 1915 in New Bedford, Massachusetts. This four-day festival, which takes place the first weekend of August, has grown to be the largest Portuguese American celebration, attracting over 150,000 visitors to New Bedford each year. Throughout the festival there is entertainment, including Portuguese and American music, singing, dancing, and famous entertainers. Decorative arches are erected in the festival area and are covered with bundles of bayberry branches. Colored lights and banners are also used for decoration. Vendors sell American and Madeiran foods including carne de espeto (roasted meat on a skewer), linguiça (sausage), cabra (goat), bacalhau (codfish) in spicy Portuguese sauces, favas (beans), and Madeiran wine. Local groups perform Portuguese folk music and dances; fireworks and raffles add to the festivities. On Sunday, the final day of the festival, its organizers march with a band to the church for the 11:00 a.m. mass. At 2:00 p.m. there is a colorful parade that includes children in native costumes, bands, floats, and beauty queens. Although this festival includes a mass and a procession, it is basically a secular celebration meant for socializing and having fun.

FESTIVAL OF THE HOLY GHOST

This festival, celebrated in California and in New England, is modeled after an Azorean prototype. Depending on the location, it is celebrated on some weekend between Easter and the end of July. The celebration originated with Queen Elizabeth of Aragon, wife of Portugal's King Diniz, in 1296. As an act of humility, before a mass to which she had invited the poor, she gave the royal scepter to the most indigent and had the royal crown placed on his head. After the mass, the queen and other nobles served a sumptuous meal to the poor. In the modern celebration, the crown is kept in the church throughout the year. Details of the celebration vary from place to place, but sometimes a drawing is held to determine which families will have the honor of keeping the crown at their house for one of seven weeks leading up to the festival. The child of the first winner is crowned as the child-emperor/empress. Amidst a week of feasting and celebration, he keeps the crown in a place of honor in his house, surrounded by candles and flowers, and at the end of the week, he walks in a procession to the house of the second winner, and the second child-emperor/empress is crowned. The crown passes through seven successive households. A few days before the final Sunday of the festival, the priest blesses the food that has been collected for the poor, although today this food is more commonly used for a community banquet. On the final weekend there may be a special mass, procession, and a carnival or fair that includes fireworks, charity auctions, music, ethnic food, and dancing the chamarrita, an Azorean folk square dance.

THE FESTA DE SENHOR DA PEDRA

This festival, begun in New Bedford, Massachusetts, in 1924, is celebrated the last Sunday of August. It is also based on an Azorean festival. Its promoters emphasize the religious aspect of this celebration. After mass the image of Senhor da Pedra and those of nine other church figures are carried in procession on floats through the streets on the shoulders of the faithful. They are accompanied by a band, other church members carrying crucifixes and banners, and children wearing their first-communion outfits or dressed as angels; children also carry six smaller floats topped by the images of saints. The priest marches in the procession carrying the sacrament. As the figure of Senhor da Pedra passes, onlookers attach money to his float. One neighborhood decorates its street with sand paintings and flower petals over which the procession will pass. A carnival with public entertainment, ethnic foods- caçoila (marinated pork), bacalhau, and linguiça, and raffles are also part of the festival.

Other regional celebrations include the Santo Cristo festival in Fall River, Massachusetts, the Festival of Our Lady of Fatima, which commemorates the reported appearance of the Virgin in Fatima, Portugal, in 1917, and the Festival of Our Lady of Good Voyage in Gloucester, Massachusetts, during which the fishing fleet is blessed.

PROVERBS

Proverbs are popular in Portuguese culture, and many have been passed on from one generation to the next:

Não ha rosas sem espinhos -You can't have roses without having thorns too; Amar e saber não póde ser -Love and prudence do not go together; Mais quero asno que me leve, que caballo que me derrube -I'd rather have an ass that carried me than a horse that threw me off; A caridade bem entendida principia por casa -Charity begins at home; A Deus poderás mentir, mas não pódes enganar a Deus -You may lie to God, but you cannot deceive him; Da ma mulher te guarda, e da boa não fies nada -Beware of a bad woman, and don't trust a good one; Aonde o ouro falla, tudo calla -When money speaks, all else is silent; Do mal o menos -Of evils, choose the least.

CUISINE

Portugal's cuisine shows great variety because each of her provinces has its own specialties. Along the coast a shellfish açorda is popular. This is a type of soup made from soaking country bread in a broth used to boil shellfish. Just before serving, hot shell-fish and chopped coriander are added, and the dish is topped off by the addition of raw eggs that poach in the hot liquid. The city of Porto is famous for its tripe recipes. Tripe stew, for example, contains tripe, beans, veal, chouriço or linguiça, presunto (mountaincured ham similar to prosciutto), chicken, onion, carrots, and parsley. The city of Aveiro is know for its caldeirada, a fish and shellfish stew seasoned with cumin, parsley, and coriander. Around the city of Coimbra one might find bife à portuguésa (steak prepared in a seasoned wine sauce and covered with thin slices of presunto ham) and sopa à portuguésa (soup made of pork, veal, cabbage, white beans, carrots, and macaroni).

Cod is the most commonly served fish, perhaps as bolinhos de bacalhau (codfish cakes), or bacalhau à Gomes de Sá (fried with boiled potatoes, onions, eggs and olives). Indeed, since Portugal is surrounded on two sides by the ocean, seafood is fresh and plentiful throughout the country. Escabeche consists of fish pickled with carrots and onions and stored in the refrigerator for several days before serving.

The Portuguese, like the Spanish, use olive oil and garlic generously in their cuisine, but they use herbs and spices more widely, especially cumin coriander, and paprika. Caldo verde (green soup) is made of fresh kale, potatoes, garlic-seasoned smoked pork sausage (either linguiça or chouriço ), olive oil, and seasonings. It is served with pão de broa (rye bread) and red wine. Tender slices of lamprey eel prepared in a spicy curry sauce is also a typical dish.

Cozido à portuguésa is a stew made of beef, chicken, and sausage boiled with chick-peas, potatoes, turnips, carrots, cabbage, turnip greens and rice. Chicken, roasted suckling pig, lamb, and goat

are also important in Portuguese cuisine. Massa sovada, a delicious Portuguese sweet bread, is even commercially available in parts of the United States.

Typical desserts and confections include pudim flan (a baked custard topped with a caramelized sugar sauce), toucinho do céu ("bacon of heaven" almond cake), and ovos moles (a sweet mixture of egg yolks and sugar syrup), which may be served as dessert or used as icing on a cake. Figos recheados (dried figs stuffed with almonds and chocolate) are often served after dinner accompanied by a glass of port wine.

Portuguese wines have a good reputation. Some of the best red wine comes from Colares, the only region that still produces grapes from native European root stock. The best white wines are from Carcavelos and Buçelas. Although they are really either red or white, the so-called green wines ( vinhos verdes ), made from grapes picked before they are fully ripe, are produced in the north. They are crackling wines and have an alcohol content of eight to 11 percent. Portugal is famous for its port wine (named for the city of Oporto); it is a fortified wine whose alcohol content is 20 percent. The best ports are aged for a minimum of ten years, but some are aged for as many as 50. Madeira wine, coming from the Madeira Islands, is similar to port.

TRADITIONAL COSTUMES

The clothing worn in modern-day Portugal is similar to that worn in the United States. However, for certain festivals, traditional costumes are worn. These vary from region to region, but men often wear black, close-fitting trousers with a white shirt and sometimes a bright-colored sash or vest. On their heads they might wear a long green and red stocking cap with a tassel on the end that hangs down to one side. Women wear colorful gathered skirts with aprons and cloth shawls over their shoulders. During the festival of tabuleiros in the region around Tomar, the harvest is celebrated by girls clad in ankle-length, long-sleeved white cotton dresses adorned by a wide colored ribbon that goes around the waist and over one shoulder. On their heads they wear a tall crown made of bread and weighing more than 30 pounds. The crown, which is at least as tall as the girl herself, is decorated with paper flowers and sprigs of wheat and is topped by a white dove or a Maltese cross.

DANCES AND SONGS

The fado is a melancholy type of song from Portugal. It is performed in certain bars of Lisbon late at night and in the early hours of the morning. These songs are believed to have originated among Portuguese sailors who had to spend months or even years at sea, away from their beloved homeland. The fado, meaning "fate," praises the beauties of the country for which the singer is homesick or of the love that he left behind. Regional folk dances include the chula, the corridinho (a polka-like dance from southern Portugal), the fandango, the tirana, and the vira.

HOLIDAYS

The Portuguese celebrate the traditional Christian holidays. Their celebration of Christmas ( Dia do Natal ) includes attending midnight mass on Christmas Eve ( missa do galo ), getting together with the extended family to share a meal and converse, singing carols outside friends' homes, and displaying a manger scene. New Year's Eve is celebrated by picking and eating 12 grapes as the clock is striking midnight in order to assure 12 months of happiness in the new year. On January 6, Dia de Reis (Day of the Kings), gifts are exchanged. Families share a ring-shaped cake called a bolo Rei which contains toy figures that bring good luck if found in one's portion. During Holy Week there are processions through the streets carrying portrayals of the passion of Jesus. The most famous processions are in the cities of Covilhã and Vila do Conde. On Easter, after attending mass, the family enjoys a special meal. This may include folar, a cake made of sweet dough and topped with hard-boiled eggs. On Pentecost (50 days after Easter) Holy Ghost societies in the Azores provide food for the poor in the community. Véspera de São João (Saint John's Eve), on June 23, is a celebration in honor of St. John the Baptist. The traditions associated with this festival have to do with fire and water. People build bonfires, dance around them, and leap over their flames. It is said that water possesses a miraculous quality that night, and that contact with it or dew can bring health, good fortune, protection to livestock, marriage, or good luck. On the thirteenth of May and October, people throng to the sanctuary of Our Lady of Fatima in search of miraculous cures or the granting of a prayer. In the United States, all these celebrations have become Americanized or have been abandoned for American equivalents (for example, the Dia das Almas has been replaced by Memorial Day), but certain traditions may be retained by some families out of ethnic pride.

HEALTH ISSUES

Portuguese Americans have no specific health problems or medical conditions that afflict them. They take pride in their sturdiness and longevity. They have a reputation for hard work and diligence. The birth rate of Portugal is high compared to the rest of Europe and to the United States, but it has dropped in recent years. Mutual aid societies are an established tradition among Portuguese Americans. Many workers have health insurance through their employer's benefits plan; the self-employed often insure themselves at their own expense.

Language

Portuguese is a Romance language derived from Latin. Today it is spoken by people on five continents, including about 300,000 in the United States. Linguists see its development as consisting of two main periods. The language of the twelfth to the sixteenth centuries is called Galician-Portuguese; it was essentially the same as that spoken in northwestern Spain. The language of central Portugal, between Coimbra and Lisbon, came to be considered the standard dialect, and this language, from the sixteenth century on, is called modern Portuguese.

Modern Portuguese is characterized by an abundance of sibilant and palatal consonants and a broad spectrum of vowel sounds (five nasal phonemes and eight to ten oral ones). Portuguese has an uvular "r" similar to the French "r." On occasion, unstressed vowels tend not to be pronounced, for example, professor is pronounced "prufsor." Portuguese has a northern and a southern dialect. The northern dialect is more conservative and has retained more traits of Galician-Portuguese; the southern one has evolved further. The Portuguese spoken in the Azores and in Madeira might be considered a third dialect. Brazilian Portuguese differs from continental Portuguese in sound (diphthongs in final positions are not nasalized, and unstressed vowels are not omitted in pronunciation), in vocabulary (words from indigenous languages have been incorporated), and in syntax.

GREETINGS AND OTHER POPULAR EXPRESSIONS

Common Portuguese greetings and other expressions include: Bom dia ("bong DEE-uh")-Good morning; Boa tarde ("BOH-uh tard")-Good afternoon; Boa noite ("BOH-uh noyt")-Good night; Por favor ("poor fuh-VOR")-Please; Obrigado ("obree-GAH-doo")-Thank you; Adeus ("a-DEH-oosh")-Goodbye; Desculpe ! ("dush-KOOLP")-Excuse me!; Como esta? ("KOH-moo shta")-How are you?; Saúde ! ("sa-OOD")-Cheers!; Feliz Natal ("Fe-LEEZ na-TA-o")-Merry Christmas; Próspero Ano Novo ("PRAHS-pe-roo UN-new NO-voo")-Happy New Year.

Family and Community Dynamics

In the earliest years of Portuguese immigration to the United States, most of the new arrivals were young, single males or married men hoping to bring their families over when their financial condition allowed. Most Portuguese immigrants came from rural villages and were illiterate; those who settled in urban areas had great adjustments to make. Their poor educational background and their lack of marketable skills condemned them to unskilled labor. They brought with them an anti-intellectual attitude derived from their belief that the father ruled the household and the children worked under his supervision to contribute to the common good by working on the land that their family was farming. Allowing their children to spend time in school was a luxury that these immigrants could not afford. In their new environment they resisted compulsory education for the young. When they were required to send their children to school, they sent them to public schools rather than to parochial ones. After a generation or two, however, families were more financially able to allow their children to continue their education. As a result, Portuguese American families have produced many physicians, lawyers, and university professors.

Immigrants also had to make adjustments to their diets. Since many of the early arrivals lived in boarding houses, they had to acclimate quickly to American food which generally represented an improvement over the bread, codfish, beans, and wine that were staples in Portugal. On the negative side, it was more difficult and more expensive to obtain fresh fruit, vegetables, and fish in the United States than it had been in Portugal. Children had to adjust to cow's milk after having been used to goat's milk. Immigrants who settled in rural areas, however, were not subject to such sudden changes in diet and could preserve their traditional eating habits more easily.

Because they could no longer depend upon their extended family for support, Portuguese immigrants formed mutual aid societies in the United States. The first was founded around 1847. The early societies were established for men only. Each member would pay a monthly amount into the treasury of the society or periodically would be assessed; in turn he would receive benefits if he lost his job or was unable to work because of illness or disability. These societies sometimes afforded the opportunity to socialize with other Portuguese. Similar organizations for women began to appear about 20 years later.

Women, who traditionally held a subordinate position in the family and in society in Portugal, gained greater equality with men in the United States. Many of them had to leave the home to work in industries in order to help support the family. Their progress is reflected in their participation in organizations founded by Portuguese Americans. At first they did not participate at all; then they established organizations for themselves. Later they served as auxiliaries for men's organizations, and now they enjoy equal membership with men in many of these clubs.

FRAGMENTATION OF PORTUGUESE IMMIGRANT GROUPS

Portuguese immigrants tended to differentiate themselves from other Portuguese-speaking immigrants of different geographical backgrounds. The continental Portuguese, the people from the Cape Verde Islands, those from Madeira, those from the Eastern Azores, and those from the Central Azores felt little affinity for the other groups, and often rivalry existed among them despite their common language. Except for the continentals, they did not think of themselves as Portuguese but as citizens of a particular island. And Azoreans often identified with a particular city rather than with the island as a whole. In the United States, each group tended to settle in clusters to be near others with whom they felt kinship and allegiance. The various groups did not know one another well, and prejudices grew among them. They wanted little to do with one another and even ridiculed each other's dialects. The groups with lighter skin looked down upon those with darker skin. Fraternal organizations founded by one group would not admit members of the other groups. The well-educated Portuguese who belonged to a higher social class felt little in common with those of the lower classes. This internal fragmentation has lessened with time but has inhibited Portuguese immigrants from presenting a united front for their own betterment.

Religion

Nearly all Portuguese immigrants to the United States are Roman Catholic. However, whereas the Roman Catholic church was protected by the Portuguese government for many years, church and state are separate in the United States. Immigrants came into conflict with the church because its laws made it difficult and frustrating to try to establish a Portuguese Catholic church in a community. The church, which had to be built with money contributed by the Portuguese immigrants, could be stripped of its Portuguese identity at the discretion of the bishop. Although none was ever built in Hawaii, the mainland United States has several Portuguese Catholic churches in California and about 30 in New England. There are also a few Portuguese Protestant churches in existence. The first was a Portuguese Presbyterian church established in Jacksonville, Illinois, in 1850. It was founded by about 130 newly arrived Madeiran Protestants who left their native land because of religious persecution and settled in this region, after having spent several years in Trinidad. Within a few years, their numbers had grown to 400. There are Portuguese Protestant churches in New England, California, and Hawaii. Many people of Portuguese descent have found a church home in nonethnic Roman Catholic churches and in mainstream American Protestant churches.

Employment and Economic Traditions

Portuguese immigrants who settled on the East Coast tended to find work in factories, especially in the textile mills, in whaling and fishing, and in truck farming. Some found jobs as itinerant farm workers, picking cranberries and strawberries. Women worked as seamstresses in garment shops. In California, early Portuguese immigrants participated in gold mining as well as in whaling and fishing. Many there went into various types of farming. The first Portuguese in Hawaii worked on sugar plantations but soon moved to the urban centers to work in more skilled jobs. At first the Portuguese were assigned some of the most undesirable jobs, but as their proficiency in English and their work skills and educational level improved, they rose to higher, more responsible positions. Their success in farming is demonstrated by the fact that, by 1974, 34 percent of all market milk produced in California came from Portuguese American dairies. Many Portuguese American entrepreneurs went into business for themselves and opened restaurants, hotels, and banks. Others took advantage of educational opportunities in the United States and went into the professions. They now occupy a broad spectrum of jobs and careers and are found at all social and economic levels of society.

Politics and Government

Portuguese Americans have assimilated quietly into American society; they have tended not to use politics as a means of promoting their own welfare. They have also tended to avoid political and social protest. They are self-reliant and avail themselves of welfare programs only as a last resort. They have organized themselves, however, through mutual aid societies as well as civic, educational, social, and fraternal organizations. Some of these include the Portuguese Union of the State of California, the Portuguese American Civic League of Massachusetts, the Portuguese Civic League of Rhode Island, the Portuguese Educational Society of New Bedford, Massachusetts, the Luso-American Education Foundation, the Luso-American Federation, the League of Portuguese Fraternal Societies of California, and the Cabrillo Civic Clubs of California. They also have served in elected governmental positions. Their political influence began early in Hawaii; in 1894 three of the 18 elected delegates to the Constitutional Convention were Portuguese. In California the first Portuguese American was elected to the state legislature in 1900. This did not happen in Massachusetts until the early 1940s.

State governments have formally recognized the contributions that some Portuguese have made to the United States. Since 1935 California has celebrated Cabrillo Day on September 28, honoring the discoverer of that state. In 1967 the state of California further proclaimed the second week in March of each year Portuguese Immigrant Week. In 1974 Massachusetts set aside March 15 as Peter Francisco Day. Peter Francisco was a boy of Portuguese origin who, during the Revolutionary War, enlisted in the Continental Army at the age of 16; his courage and patriotism earned the respect of General George Washington. There is a Peter Francisco Park in the Ironbound district of Newark, New Jersey. Portuguese Americans have served with distinction in the United States armed services since the Revolution.

Individual and Group Contributions

Although most of the Portuguese who arrived on American shores lacked education and skills, and therefore had limited ability to make significant contributions to their new land's popular culture or to its arts and sciences, there have been exceptions. Descendants of Portuguese immigrants, having had greater educational opportunity in America, have gone on to make their mark on American society. In considering their contributions, it must be remembered that Portuguese Americans constitute only a fraction of one percent of the population of the United States, and that they have achieved success in areas besides those listed below, such as business and dairy farming.

ACADEMIA

Dr. Joaquim de Siqueira Coutinho (b. 1885) was a professor at George Washington University and at the Catholic University of America. From 1910 to 1920 he was in charge of the Brazilian section of the Pan-American Union. Francis Mile Rogers (1914- ) was professor of Portuguese at Harvard University where he chaired the Department of Romance Languages and Literatures. He also served as Dean of the School of Arts and Sciences and authored a number of books.

ART AND ARCHITECTURE

William L. Pereira (1909-1985) is an internationally known architect and city planner. He designed or planned such complexes as Cape Canaveral, CBS Television City, the Los Angeles Museum of Art, the Crocker Citizens Bank in Los Angeles, the Central Library at the University of California (San Diego), and the Union Oil Center. Henrique Medina and Palmira Pimental were painters in the 1930s.

FILM, TELEVISION, AND THEATER

Harold José Pereira de Faria (Hal Peary) (1908-1985) achieved fame in the title role of the series "The Great Gildersleeve," which he played for 16 years on radio and television. He also appeared in motion pictures. John Mendes (1919-1955) performed as a magician under the name of "Prince Mendes." He was also a stage, screen, and television actor. Other Portuguese American motion picture actors include Rod de Medicis and Nestor Pavie. Carmen Miranda (1914-1955), although known as "the Brazilian bombshell," actually was born in Portugal. She was a popular film star of the 1940s known for her humor, her singing, and her extravagant hats piled high with fruit. She popularized Latin American dance music in the United States. Henry da Sylva established a ballet school in Hollywood, acted in films and directed them as well.

GOVERNMENT

Joseph F. Francis and Mary L. Fonseca were senators in the Massachusetts State Legislature. João G. Mattos served in the state legislature of California. Helen L. C. Lawrence became chair of the City Council of San Leandro, California, in 1941. In that position she exercised the power of mayor. Clarence Azevedo was mayor of Sacramento, California. In 1979, Peter "Tony" Coelho of California was elected to the United States House of Representatives; he is probably the first Portuguese American to serve in the national congress. Ernest Ladeira served as President Richard M. Nixon's advisor on social welfare. He was also an assistant to John Volpe, Secretary of Transportation. John M. Arruda was mayor of Fall River, Massachusetts, for six years.

LITERATURE

Some Portuguese immigrants recorded their experiences in their adopted country: Laurinda C. Andrade (1899- ) gives a young girl's impressions in her autobiography, The Open Door ; Lawrence Oliver (1887-1977) wrote an autobiography titled Never Backward ; and Alfred Lewis (1902-1977) wrote an autobiographical novel, Home Is an Island, as well as poetry. Onésimo Almeida, who completed his university training in Portugal and then earned a Ph.D. at Brown University where he later served as professor, wrote Da Vida Quotidiana na LUSAlândia (1975), Ah! Mònim dum Corisco (1978), and (Sapa)teia Americana (1983). Immigrants who tell of their experiences in poetry include Artur Ávila in his Rimas de Um Imigrante and José Brites in his Poemas sem Poesia and Imigramante (1984). John Roderigo Dos Passos (1896-1970) is the only American novelist of Portuguese descent who has an international reputation. His works include Manhattan Transfer (1925) and the trilogy U.S.A. (1937), for which he is best known. It comprises the novels The 42nd Parallel (1930), 1919 (1932), and The Big Money (1936). He published a second trilogy titled District of Columbia in 1952. Jorge de Sena (1919-1978) came to the United States from Portugal via Brazil. He was a professor at the University of Wisconsin, Madison. At the University of California, Santa Barbara, he was chair of the comparative literature program. He was a well-known literary critic, poet, playwright, novelist and short-story writer. His works include the novels O Físico Prodigioso (translated into English as The Wondrous Physician ) and Sinais de fogo as well as the short story collections Génesis and Os grao-capitaes. English readers can obtain his work By the Rivers of Babylon and Other Stories. The novelist and short-story writer José Rodrigues Miguéis (1901-1980) wrote fiction such as Saudades para Dena Genciana and Gente da Terceira Classe.

MUSIC

John Philip Sousa (1854-1932) was director of the U.S. Marine Band from 1880 to 1892. He then founded his own Sousa Band in 1892 which, in its over 40-year existence, became the world's most famous concert band. At the outbreak of World War I, Sousa, at the age of 62, joined the navy to train bands at the Great Lakes Naval Training Center. He is famous as the composer of such marches as "Stars and Stripes Forever," "Semper Fidelis," "The Washington Post March," and "Hands Across the Sea." He also composed several operettas including The Captain, The Charlatan, and The Queen of Hearts, as well as several suites for piano. Ilda Stichini and Maria Silveira were opera divas in the 1930s. Raul da Silva Pereira was a composer and conductor. Elmar de Oliveira (1950- ) is a violinist who, in 1978, was the first American to win the gold medal in Moscow's Tchaikovsky competition; he is now on the faculty of the Manhattan School of Music. In the field of popular music, the vocalist Tony Martin (1912- ) produced many hit records between 1941 and 1957. He had his own radio show and also appeared in films. His best role was probably in Casbah (1948). He appeared in nightclubs in the 1970s. A general contribution the Portuguese people have made to American music is the ukulele, which originated in Madeira and is now popular in Hawaii.

RELIGION

The charismatic religious leader Marcelino Manoel de Graça (1882-1960), also known as "Sweet Daddy Grace," founded the United House of Prayer for All People in the Harlem area of New York. His congregation, made up mainly of African Americans, included over three million people. Humberto Sousa Medeiros (1915-1983), who had been bishop of Brownsville, Texas, was named to succeed Cardinal Cushing as Archbishop of Boston in 1970. He was the first non-Irish American to fill that position in 124 years. He was elevated to the College of Cardinals in 1973.

SCIENCE AND MEDICINE

José de Sousa Bettencourt (1851-1931) earned degrees in both law and medicine. He practiced medicine and taught at the San Francisco Medical School. João Sérgio Alvares Cabral (d. 1909) practiced medicine in Oakland, California. He gave free consultations to the poor and ones at reduced rate to Portuguese. He also served as editor in chief of A Pátria, a Portuguese newspaper published in Oakland. Mathias Figueira (1853-1930) founded the American College of Surgeons. M. M. Enos (1875- ) was head of the Portuguese Association of the Portuguese Hospital of Saint Anthony in Oakland, California. He was also director of the Portuguese American Bank and taught at the National Medical School of Chicago. Carlos Fernandes (d. 1977) was director of St. John's Hospital in San Francisco.

SPORTS

Bernie de Viveiros played baseball with the Detroit Tigers and the Oakland Oaks. Manuel Gomes also was a baseball player as was Lew Fonseca (1899-1989) who played for the Cincinnati Reds, the Philadelphia Phillies, the Cleveland Indians, and coached the Chicago White Sox; he was a pioneer in the use of film to analyze players' performance during a game. In boxing, Al Melo participated as a welterweight in the Olympics in 1924. George Araujo, Johnny Gonsalves, and Babe Herman were contenders for the world boxing championships. Justiano Silva was a professional wrestler. Henrique Santos won the United States fencing championship in 1942. Tony Lema (1934-1966), also known as "Champagne Tony," was the winner of numerous professional golf tournaments. At the time of his death he ranked tenth in all-time earnings in the PGA. Tennis star Vic (E. Victor) Seixas, Jr. (1923- ), won the U.S. Open Championship in 1954.

TECHNOLOGY

Abilio de Silva Greaves invented a fire-alarm system as well as devices used in aviation. In the field of textiles, Steve Abrantes invented a wool carding device, and José Pacheco Correia invented one for combing cotton. Sebastião Luiz Dias patented an irrigation control system. John C. Lobato developed a new type of army tank.

Media

People who are interested in Portuguese cultural topics and would like to communicate with those having similar interests may do so through the USENET news group called soc.culture.portuguese. A game or pastime called "MOOsaico" can be played through Telnet by contacting moo.di.uminho. pt 7777. Participants explore a virtual world and talk to other players. The game may be played in Portuguese or English.

PRINT

Jornal Portugues/Portuguese Journal.

Published every Thursday in Portuguese and English; circulation of 2,500.

Contact: Maria Leal, Editor.

Address: 1912 Church Lane, San Pablo, California 94806.

Telephone: (800) 309-0233; or (510) 237-0888.

Fax: (510) 237-3790.

E-mail: portjornal@aol.com.

Luso-Americano.

Established 1928 and published every Wednesday and Friday with a circulation of 36,000-the largest outside Portugal and Brazil.

Contact: Antonio Matinho, Editor and Publisher.

Address: 88 Ferry, Newark, New Jersey 07105.

Telephone: (973) 589-4600.

Fax: (973) 589-3848.

E-mail: lusoamerican@earthlink.net.

The Portuguese Post.

Established 1986 and published every Monday; circulation 20,000.

Contact: George Valante, Editor.

Address: 283 East Kinney Street, Newark, New Jersey 07105.

Telephone: (201) 344-5652.

Fax: (201) 344-0675.

E-Mail: Rtpusapost@earthlink.net.

Online: http://www.uspn.com/post/ .

Portuguese Times, Inc.

Published every Thursday; circulation 15,000.

Contact: Manuel Ferreira, Editor.

Address: 1501 Acushnet Avenue, New Bedford, Massachusetts 02740.

Telephone: (508) 997-3118.

Fax: (508) 990-1231.

Online: http://www.webx.ca/Ptimes/ .

Portuguese Tribune.

Published bi-monthly. Circulation: 1,800 subscriptions plus sales in more than 250 vending locations.

Contact: Armando Antunes, Editor.

Address: P.O. Box 3477, San Jose, California 95156-3477.

Telephone: (408) 971-1615.

Fax: (408) 971-1966.

Portuguese-American Newspaper.

Semiweekly newspaper founded in 1928; for Portuguese Americans in Portuguese.

Address: 88 Ferry Street, Newark, New Jersey 07105.

Telephone: (973) 589-4600.

Fax: (973) 589-3848.

Voz de Portugal/Voice of Portugal.

Semi-monthly magazine published in Portuguese.

Contact: Lourenco Costa Aguiar, Editor and Publisher.

Address: 370 A Street, Hayward, California 94541.

Telephone: (415) 537-9503.

RADIO

WINE-AM (940).

Radio Portugal.

Address: 1004 Federal Road, Brookfield, Connecticut 06804-1123.

Telephone: (203) 775-1212.

Fax: (203) 775-6452.

WJFD-FM (97.3).

Radio Globo.

Address: 270 Union Street, New Bedford, Massachusetts 02740.

Telephone: (617) 997-2929.

Fax: (508) 990-3893.

WRCP-AM (1290).

Radio Clube Portugues.

Contact: Anthony A. Cruz.

Address: 1110 Douglas Avenue, Providence, Rhode Island 02904.

Telephone: (401) 273-7000.

Fax: (401) 273-7008.

TELEVISION

Full Channel.

Address: 57 Everett Street, Warren, Rhode Island 02885.

Telephone: (401) 247-1250.

A Nossa Gente.

Address: Heritage Cable Vision, 1636 Alum Rock Avenue, San Jose, California 95116.

Telephone: (408) 258-2800.

Portuguese American Hour.

Address: Channel 38, 46921 Warm Springs Boulevard, Fremont, California.

Telephone: (415) 656-3232.

The Portuguese Channel.

Address: Channel 20, 1501 Acushnet Avenue, New Bedford, Massachusetts 02740.

Telephone: (508) 997-3110.

Fax: (508) 996-2151.

Portuguese Television.

Address: Channel 38, P.O. Box 51, Fremont, California 94541.

Telephone: (415) 797-4219

RTP.

This Portuguese television channel can be received from the Hughes Galaxy III satellite. This is a C-band satellite with a horizontal polarization. Its position is 93.5 degrees west, and its transponder number is five.

Address: R.T.P. USA, Adams Street, Newark, New Jersey.

Telephone: (201) 344-8888.

Organizations and Associations

American Portuguese Society.

Founded in 1959. Promotes friendship, understanding, and cultural relations between Portugal and the United States through exhibits, seminars, and cultural exchanges. Publishes the Journal of the American Portuguese Society with articles in English about Portuguese culture.

Contact: Michael Teague, Director.

Address: c/o ISSI, 2 Wall Street, New York, New York 10005.

Telephone: (212) 751-1992.

Fax: (212) 688-7082.

Luso-American Education Foundation.

Seeks to perpetuate the ethnic and national culture brought to America by emigrants from Portugal; assists qualified students and others in studying and understanding Portuguese culture. Develops high school and college courses for the teaching of Portuguese language, history, and culture.

Contact: S. Bettencourt, President.

Address: P.O. Box 2967, Dublin, California 94568.

Telephone: (510) 828-3883.

Fax: (510) 828-3883.

Online: http://www.Lusaweb.com/laef/

Portuguese Continental Union USA.

Founded in 1925. A fraternal organization serving the Portuguese community.

Contact: Francisco Mendonca, Supreme Secretary/CEO.

Address: 899 Boylston Street, Boston, Massachusetts 02115.

Telephone: (617) 536-2916.

Fax: (617) 536-8301.

E-mail: upceua@aol.com.

Online: http://members.aol.com/upceua .

Portuguese Historical and Cultural Society.

Works to promote Portuguese history and culture.

Contact: Joe Souza, President.

Address: P.O. Box 161990, Sacramento, California 95816.

Telephone: (916) 392-1048.

E-mail: portucal@juno.com.

The União Portuguesa do Estado da California (UPEC).

Fraternal insurance society founded in 1880. Maintains the J. A. Freitas library with 8,000 volumes dealing with Portugal and Portuguese Americans.

Contact: Carlos Almeida.

Address: 1120 East 14th Street, San Leandro, California 94577.

Telephone: (510) 483-7676.

Online: http://www.upec.org/ .

Museums and Research Centers

The Oliveira Lima Library.

Located on the campus of The Catholic University of America in Washington, D.C., this is the oldest and most extensive library of materials specializing in Luso-Brazilian history and culture.

Contact: Maria Leal, Librarian; or Thomas Cohen, Curator.

Address: 6 Mullen Library, Catholic University of America, Washington, D.C. 20064.

Telephone: (202) 319-5059.

E-mail: leal@cua.edu.

Society for Spanish and Portuguese Historical Studies.

Address: Department of History, SSB 215, University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona 85721-0027.

Contact: Helen Nader.

Telephone: (520) 621-5860.

Fax: (520) 621-2422.

E-mail: naderh@u.arizona.edu.

Sources for Additional Study

Almeida, Carlos. Portuguese Immigrants: The Centennial Story of the Portuguese Union of the State of California. San Leandro, California: Supreme Council of U.P.E.C., 1992.

Anderson, James Maxwell. The History of Portugal. Westport, CT: Greenwood Press, 2000.

Cabral, Stephen L. Tradition and Transformation: Portuguese Feasting in New Bedford. New York: AMS Press, Inc., 1989.

Cardozo, Manoel da Silveira. The Portuguese in America: 590 B . C .-1974: A Chronology & Fact Book. Dobbs Ferry, New York: Oceana Publications, Inc., 1976.

Gilbert, Dorothy Ann. Recent Portuguese Immigrants to Fall River, Massachusetts: An Analysis of Relative Economic Success. New York: AMS Press, Inc., 1989.

Pap, Leo. The Portuguese-Americans. Boston: Twayne Publishers, 1981.

Ribeiro, José Luís. Portuguese Immigrants and Education. Bristol, Rhode Island: Portuguese American Federation, 1982.

Wolforth, Sandra. The Portuguese in America. San Francisco: R&E Research Associates, Inc., 1978.

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Portuguese Americans - Early history, The eighteenth century, The nineteenth century

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Got an idea for a holiday? Send it to us

We celebrate Polish American Heritage Month in October, but it wasn't always that way. Congress first deemed August as Polish American Heritage Month in 1981. Later, it moved to October to commemorate the first Polish settlers - as well as the deaths of General Kazimierz Pułaski and Tadeusz Kościuszko (military leaders who fought in the American Revolution). The switch also enabled schools to participate in celebrations. Whether you're Polish American or not, it's important to mark the culture of a people who helped shape this country.

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Polish American Heritage Month - October

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Got an idea for a holiday? Send it to us We celebrate Polish American Heritage Month in October, but it wasn't always that way. Congress first deemed August as Polish American Heritage Month in 1981.

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This October, mark Italian-American Heritage Month by recognizing the contributions and achievements of Italian-Americans. Over 26 million Americans of Italian descent currently reside in the U.S. - making up America's seventh largest ethnic group. The heritage month is in October to coincide with Columbus Day - the national holiday celebrated on the second Monday of the month. Italian-American Heritage Month celebrates the distinguished cultural contributions of Americans with Italian lineage.

​Italian-American Heritage Month timeline

A formal apology

President Clinton signed the Wartime Violation of Italian American Civil Liberties Act. This led to an official apology for the civil liberty violations Italian-Americans endured during World War II.

An Italian-American broke the gender barrier in U.S. politics

​Geraldine Ferraro was the first woman on a major party ticket, running for vice president alongside presidential candidate Walter Mondale.

​An Italian-American built a university.

​Giovanni Nobili founded the Santa Clara College (now Santa Clara University).

​The Marines played Italian-inspired music.

​Thomas Jefferson recruited a group of musicians from Sicily to form a military band, later to become the nucleus of the U.S. Marine Band.

How to Observe ​Italian-American Heritage Month

Why ​Italian-American Heritage Month is Important

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​ITALIAN-AMERICAN HERITAGE MONTH - October 2020 | National Today

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This October, mark Italian-American Heritage Month by recognizing the contributions and achievements of Italian-Americans. Over 26 million Americans of Italian descent currently reside in the U.S. - making up America's seventh largest ethnic group. The heritage month is in October to coincide with Columbus Day - the national holiday celebrated on the second Monday of ...

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The first recorded celebration of Irish-Americans in the United States dates back to 1762 with the first St. Patrick's Day parade in New York City. The parade became an annual event External, which was initially organized by military units. After the War of 1812, Irish fraternal societies took over the parade's organization.

In October 1990, Congress passed Public Law 101-418 (104 Stat. 906) establishing March 1991 as Irish-American Heritage Month. In 1991, President George H. W. Bush issued the first proclamation External designating March as Irish-American Heritage Month. In 1992, Congress passed Public Law 102-253 (106 Stat. 70), which designated March of that year as Irish-American Heritage Month. Subsequently, Congress passed laws variously designating March 1993 and 1994 as Irish-American Heritage Month. In October 1994, Congress passed Public Law 103-379 (108 Stat. 3510), which designated March 1995 and 1996 as Irish-American Heritage Month. Since 1997, presidents have issued annual proclamations for the observance and celebration of Irish-American Heritage Month.

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Research Guides: Irish-American Heritage Month: A Commemorative Observances Legal Research Guide: History and Overview

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The first recorded celebration of Irish-Americans in the United States dates back to 1762 with the first St. Patrick's Day parade in New York City. The parade became an annual event External, which was initially organized by military units. After the War of 1812, Irish fraternal societies took over the parade's organization.

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The European Heritage Days is co-organised by the European Union and the Council of Europe, which launched the action in 1985. It is among the most widely celebrated participatory cultural events in Europe.

During the European Heritage Days, thousands of monuments and sites open their doors, some of them normally closed to the public for the rest of the year. This allows people to enjoy free visits, learn about their shared cultural heritage and become part of safeguarding Europe's heritage for present and future generations.

European Heritage Days provide access to thousands of rarely opened sites and unique events to over 20 million people every year.

Purpose of the European Heritage Days

Through the events, the organisers

raise awareness of Europe's cultural richness and diversity

stimulate interest in Europe's cultural heritage

counter racism and xenophobia and encourage greater tolerance for other cultures across Europe

inform the public and governments (or policymakers) about the need to protect cultural heritage

invite Europe to respond to the social, political and economic challenges of the culture sector

50 countries involved

European Heritage Days take place in the 50 signatory countries to the European Cultural Convention every September and are organised in close collaboration with national coordinators.

Within each country, a network of regional and local authorities, civic and private groups and thousands of volunteers are in charge of organising events.

Each year comes with a special common pan-European theme. Countries can join in the annual common theme. Alternatively, they can organise events around a local adaptation of the theme or a theme of their choice.

Find out more on the European Heritage Days website.

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The European Heritage Days is co-organised by the European Union and the Council of Europe, which launched the action in 1985. It is among the most widely celebrated participatory cultural events in Europe. During the European Heritage Days, thousands of monuments and sites open their doors, some of them normally closed to the public for the rest of the year.

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Through children's books, interviews with Black children's authors and illustrators, classroom activities, online history resources, and powerful documentaries, we celebrate and learn about the lives and contributions of African Americans.

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Black History Month Resources For Kids - Multicultural Kid Blogs

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From inspiring books, movies, and games, to engaging subscription boxes, here are helpful Black History Month resources to get you started

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Every February, people in the United States celebrate the achievements and history of African Americans as part of Black History Month.

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"The soul that is within me no man can degrade. I am not the one that is being degraded on account of this treatment, but those who are inflicting it upon me..." -Frederick Douglass

Black History Month is celebrated each year in the United States during the month of February to coincide with the birthday of President Abraham Lincoln on February 12 and Frederick Douglass on February 14. Here are resources to help teach students about the significant events and people in African-American history in the United States:

14. The African Americans: Many Rivers to Cross
Grades: 6-12
The series explores the evolution of the African-American people, as well as the multiplicity of cultural institutions, political strategies, and religious and social perspectives they developed - forging their own history, culture and society against unimaginable odds.
Using video clips from The African Americans: Many Rivers to Cross, this collection of lesson plans addresses a wide range of themes of the African-American experience from 1500 to the present.

15. Characters in Context: Their Eyes Were Watching God | The Great American Read
Grades: 9-12
In this lesson, students will determine the relationship between characters in Their Eyes Were Watching God and black cultural moments throughout history. Students will analyze primary and secondary sources looking at slavery, reconstruction, and the black renaissance, and connect these time periods with characters from Zora Neale Hurston's novel.
Follow us on Twitter and Facebook for more ideas on how to celebrate Black History Month!

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Teaching Black History: Resources For All Ages

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"The soul that is within me no man can degrade. I am not the one that is being degraded on account of this treatment, but those who are inflicting it upon me..." -Frederick Douglass Black History Month is celebrated each year in the United States during the month of February to coincide with the birthday of President Abraham Lincoln on February 12 and Frederick Douglass on February 14.

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Free Learning Resources for Black History Month (And Beyond) | Common Sense Education

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The inclusion of Black history and culture is essential for an accurate and true representation of American (and world) history overall. Black History Month is a time to highlight the people who have not only created foundational innovations, art, and achievements, but also organized and protested for equal rights and freedoms. Of course, the civil rights movement and figures like Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., Harriet Tubman, and Rosa Parks are integral pieces of this history.

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We know that Black history is American history and needs to be embedded into your classroom experiences year-round. At the same time, Black History Month provides the necessary opportunity to dig deeper with students. Every February, we can support students as they learn more, discover cultural impacts, and follow social movements from the past to the present day. These Black History Month lessons and activities cannot be isolated or one-off classroom experiences. Think of how you can connect these topics to what you're already doing and make it authentic. And most important, do not just focus on oppression: Focus on the joy too!

Since 1928, the Association for the Study of African American Life and History has provided a theme for Black History Month. In 2023, the theme is Black Resistance. As you review some of our favorite Black History Month activities for the classroom, keep that very important theme in mind.

(Just a heads up ! WeAreTeachers may collect a share of sales from the links on this page. We only recommend items our team loves!)

1. Re-create civil rights freedom movement posters

The Civil Rights Movement Veterans site offers powerful examples of freedom movement posters, as does the Civil Rights Digital Library. Review them with your students, and then have them get into groups and create their own to share.

2. Explore Black history through primary sources from the National Archives

Choose from thousands of resources, including this 1970s photo series of Chicago.

3. Learn about famous Black artists

Future Jacob Lawrences and Elizabeth Catletts will appreciate learning more about artists and expanding their talents! Plus, check out these other Black artists.

4. Watch a Black History Month video

Watching videos can be some of the most meaningful Black History Month classroom activities. Check out this list of Black history videos for students in every grade level.

5. Learn about the Black Lives Matter movement

The Black Lives Matter site explains the group's history while books like Dear Martin and The Hate U Give explore the movement from a fictional perspective.

6. Create a newsletter or magazine with content from Black authors

Have your students generate their own newsletter or literacy magazine to distribute to parents. Include poems and short stories by Black authors, as well as student-generated writings and images that center on Black History Month.

7. Read a Black History Month poem

To enhance our conversations this month, we've put together this list of powerful Black History Month poems for kids of all ages.

8. Turn your classroom (or school!) into a living museum

Have your students choose a notable Black pioneer they'd like to know more about, such as voting rights and women's rights activist Fannie Lou Hamer, dancer Alvin Ailey, or Betty Reid Soskin, the oldest full-time national parks ranger. Then, host a living museum right in your classroom.

9. Learn about Madam C.J. Walker and other Black entrepreneurs

Do you know about Madam C.J. Walker, the first self-made female millionaire in America? Click here to learn more about her!

10. Decorate your classroom door for Black History Month

These teachers decorated their classroom doors in amazing ways to showcase Black History Month.

11. Honor some of the military's most courageous veterans

From the 54th Massachusetts to the Buffalo Soldiers to the Tuskegee Airmen, Black men and women have long served in the United States military, even when their own rights weren't secure.

12. Read books with Black characters in honor of the young hero Marley Dias

Dias is a young activist who started the #1000blackgirlbooks campaign as a sixth grader. She has compiled an excellent guide to books with Black girl characters. Check out WeAreTeacher's list of books with Black protagonists as well.

13. Read Black History Month books

If you're looking for more reading activities, these picture books help celebrate Black History Month and educate your students on how these people helped shape history.

14. Learn about the art of stepping

Stepping is a form of dancing in which the body itself is used to create unique rhythms and sounds. The website Step Afrika! has videos and information about the history of stepping.

15. Take a virtual trip to the illustrious Schomburg Center for Research in Black Culture

The digital collections of the Schomburg Center, located in Harlem in New York City, feature some amazing online exhibits, interviews, and podcasts.

16. Virtually visit the incredible Smithsonian National Museum of African American History & Culture

You can browse the collection online by topic, date, or place.

17. Host a poetry reading featuring works by Black poets

Have students choose a poem by a Black poet to learn and recite for the class. Choose a student to serve as the emcee, write up a program, and set the tone with dimmed lights and jazz music played between performances. The Poetry Foundation has excellent resources that can help get you started.

18. Discuss the Supreme Court trial that gave rights to Black Americans

Your future legal eagles will enjoy learning about the key Supreme Court cases that helped Blacks secure rights, the events and efforts that sparked the cases, and the aftermath of those court decisions. Be sure to recognize Thurgood Marshall, the first Black Supreme Court justice and the lead lawyer in the Brown case, along the way. Also, follow up with students on how they feel these decisions impact our world today.

19. Listen to a podcast that celebrates Black history

RadioPublic has an excellent roundup of podcasts about Black history to listen to and discuss with your students.

20. Check out online exhibits on Black history

Educating yourself and your students with these shows is one more way to understand Black history and the current moment.

21. Dive into Georgia Stories: Black History Collection on PBS

As a state, Georgia played a huge role in the 2020 presidential election, and its Black history dates back to the earliest days of slavery in the colony.

22. Discuss implicit bias, systemic racism, and social injustice

Start a much-needed discussion around implicit bias and systemic racism with these resources that can empower students to fight for justice in our society.

23. Read the Freedom in Congo Square picture book to celebrate the dominance of spirit over suffering

The award-winning picture boo, Freedom in Congo Square, is a nonfiction children's book that describes the tyranny of slavery to help young readers understand how jubilant Sundays would be for slaves.

24. Watch Kevin Hart's Guide to Black History

Kevin Hart highlights the fascinating contributions of Black history's unsung heroes in this entertaining-and educational-comedy special.

25. Recognize Black visionaries

This great poster featuring activists, artists, authors, and revolutionaries will highlight Black change-makers in your classroom. Use companion activities to deepen understanding by researching several of the visionaries and asking students to write a story or create their own poster about what they've learned.

26. Create a Black History Month playlist

Many genres of music we listen to today were shaped by Black artists and their groundbreaking influences. Celebrate Black History Month with a playlist of pivotal artists, from Louis Armstrong and Jimi Hendrix to Beyoncé and Lauryn Hill. Spotify has ready-made lists to inspire you!

27. Review the time line of Black History Month

Why is Black History Month in February? How long ago was it founded, and who started it? Find the answers to these questions and learn more with this time line.

28. Explore the music of Black history

This lesson traces the long histor y of how Black artists have used music as a vehicle for communicating beliefs, aspirations, observations, joy, despair, resistance, and more across U.S. history.

29. Sample Black-founded snack brands

Honor Black History Month with delicious snacks from Black-founded brands delivered to your classroom-5% of proceeds are donated to the Equal Justice Initiative and one meal is donated to Feeding America for every box delivered.

30. Understand the role of Black women in NASA's history

How much do your students know about Black contributions to space exploration? Rent the film Hidden Figures and watch with your students to remember, honor, and share the incredible accomplishments of three Black women working on NASA's space flight program. Before watching the movie, research the liberties the film took in telling the story and discuss with your students the function of the choices. Did the filmmakers make the right choice?

31. Support local Black-owned businesses

Research your city's Black-owned businesses and see if you can purchase a sample of their products, invite some of the entrepreneurs to speak to your class, or book a field trip!

32. Stream Bookmarks: Celebrating Black Voices on Netflix

" Bookmarks: Celebrating Black Voices is a live-action collection of twelve five-minute episodes featuring prominent Black celebrities and artists reading children's books from Black authors that highlight the Black experience."

33. Check out this planner from Rethinking Schools

If you are looking to find more ways to include Black history year-round, check out this planner.

34. Celebrate the "Black Lives Matter at School" movement

"Black Lives Matter at School" is a national coalition organized for racial justice in education. It encourages all educators, students, parents, unions, and community organizations to join an annual week of action during the first week of February each year.​ For a variety of Black History Month activities, visit their website to learn more about their campaign.

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34 Black History Month Activities for February and Beyond

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Celebrate art, poetry, music, inventions, and contributions of African Americans with these Black History Month activities.

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Commemorate Black History Month in your classroom with lesson plans and resources that cover topics ranging from civil rights events to discussions about race in current events. These lessons are appropriate for history, ELA and social studies classrooms, and include resources for students in middle or high school.
This resource page includes a quick guide to the March on Washington, an interactive timeline of the civil rights movement and a glossary of terms. Use these to get started on your classroom curriculum.

In this lesson for middle and high school students, students analyze what "The American Dream" means and what role racial discrimination may play in failing to attain that dream.

Help your students connect to the rich imagery of Martin Luther King, Jr.'s "I Have a Dream" speech by learning the history of the speech and then illustrating some of its most famous lines in this creative lesson plan.

Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.'s delivered his most memorable speech, "I Have a Dream," on August 28, 1963 before more than 200,000 people at the Lincoln Memorial in Washington, D.C., as part of the March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom.

Students will learn about the social, cultural and political circumstances which gave rise to the Harlem Renaissance. They will also learn about the influences that inspired the work of the Harlem Renaissance's artists and musicians. Finally, students will be given several opportunities to create their own Harlem Renaissance inspired work.

Martin Luther King., Jr. dreamed of an America where people could "not be judged by the color of their skin but by the content of their character." Use this lesson plan to start a discussion in your classroom about where we are on the path to realizing this dream.

Explore and discuss the history and context around the Juneteenth holiday in the United States. Topics explored will include the history of racial injustice in the U.S., the Civil War and the limitations of the Emancipation Proclamation. Additionally, students will be encouraged to explore the modern significance of Juneteenth and its long-term impact.

Have students engage in a "close reading" of a timeless Jacob Lawrence painting through art-making, observation and analysis, and learn about the history of the Great Migration in the process.

Try out these interactive lessons and recommended resources from that invite students to step into the history and think critically and creatively about the continued fight for justice today.

Help introduce and engage students in the story of the March from Selma to Montgomery with clips from the film, "Selma", courtesy of Paramount Pictures. In the main activity, students will be asked to view three short videos about the March and critically think about the audience, message, and stereotypes seen.

Make issues of fairness, justice and discrimination personal to your students with this lesson plan, which includes an activity with Dr. Seuss! This lesson is designed for students for students who have difficulty with verbal or written expression.

While Martin Luther King, Jr.'s "I Have a Dream" speech became the most famous of the March on Washington, he was by no means to only person to address the massive crowd assembled on the National Mall. Use this lesson plan to look at the other civil rights leaders and orators who spoke that day and how effectively they conveyed their messages.

In this lesson plan, students compare King's "I Have a Dream" speech to other famous texts in American history, including the Emancipation Proclamation and the Gettysburg Address. This is a great addition to any speech, English or history class.

This Common Core-aligned lesson helps students explore the New York City's "stop, question and frisk" program through videos, graphics and a news article. An engaging introduction creates a foundation to help students understand infographics and their utility as a cross-curricular tool.

In this lesson plan, students will use text from Mandela's autobiography "Long Walk to Freedom" to connect with Mandela's life and words. It also contains a 20-minute video from the PBS NewsHour to help students understand the magnitude of his life.

Use this trailer and to pique students' interest in the story of Muhammad Ali, who was both an athlete and a defender of human rights. You can purchase the film on iTunes, but it is not recommended for class use due to language and some mature content unless it has been approved by you and your school to use in the classroom.

Use this dynamic resource to get students thinking about Martin Luther King, Jr. and whether his dream has been accomplished today. These 12 high school students are part of PBS NewsHour's Student Reporting Labs and come from around the country.

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Classroom resources for Black History Month - PBS NewsHour Classroom

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Commemorate Black History Month in your classroom with lesson plans and resources that cover topics ranging from civil rights events to discussions about race in current events. These lessons are appropriate for history, ELA and social studies classrooms, and include resources for students in middle or high school.

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19 Picture Books That Celebrate Black Children

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To celebrate Black History Month, Save the Children staffers share their favorite children's books that inspire young boys and girls this month all year round.

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Children's Books to Celebrate Black History Month | Parenting Tips &...

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February is Black History Month, a time for celebrating the accomplishments of Black pioneers and trailblazers. With these books, teach young children about Black history all year long.

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The Best Kids Books to Read During Black History Month

As we continue to celebrate Black History Month, it is important that kids start to learn more about black history and culture, and the best way to do that is through reading! Whether you are looking for early reader options or books for young adults, we have a list of some stories that are both a great read and educational.
Are you looking for more ways to celebrate Black History Month? Check out Black History Month 2022: Family-Friendly Activities In and Around NYC
This New York Times Bestselling book teaches girls how to be self-confident while also celebrating the unique bond between a father and daughter. Zuri's hair has a mind of its own but she loves her natural hair. When Zari's Daddy steps in to style her hair for a special occasion, he learns how to make Zari and her hair happy. Ages 3-5.

Ruth is so excited to take a trip with the family in their new car, since back in the 1950's many African Americans couldn't afford one. During her adventure however, she realized that African Americans weren't welcome in some towns. Although this story is fiction, this novel shows the struggles many African Americans faced during this time and how they were able to overcome it with the help of some friendly people. Ages 7-11

The ABC's of Black History goes letter by letter celebrating some of the monumental moments and people within black history and culture. To teach your kids more about the information listed within the book, there is back matter included that goes into more detail regarding certain historic events,places, and people who were mentioned. Ages 5 and up

This true story is about the famous Ruby Bridges and how in 1960, faced mobs of angry parents as she became the first African American student to attend an all white school in New Orleans. This story shows Ruby's courage and faith first hand and continues to resonate with kids, and their parents, after all these years. Ages 4-8

Lynda Blackmon Lowery became the youngest marcher in the 1965 Voting Rights March and continued to show that even young people can make a difference. This memoir brings you through Lowery's life as she fought alongside Martin Luther King Dr. in the fight towards civil rights. Ages 12-17.

If your kids are into poetry this is the book for them. Woke: A Young Poet's Call to Justice is made up of a collection of poems written by women of color that try to inspire kids to become the next generation of activists. These poems cover topics related to social justice, activism and discrimation and showing middle schoolers that they have a voice and should speak up. Ages 8-12

Justyce McAllister is an all around great kid- has good grades, always there to help out his friends- but that doesn't matter to the police officer who put him in handcuffs. This captivating and real story shows how Justyce turns to the teachings of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. for answers and how he gets caught in the middle of constant violence within social justice. Ages 13 and up

This New York Times Bestseller was written by Academy Award winner Lupita Nyong'o and gives the message that true beauty comes from within. Sulwe has darker skin than anyone she really knows and all she wants is to be beautiful and bright like her mother and sister. It isn't until she takes a magical journey into the night where everything changes. Ages 4-8

Starr Carter is constantly going back and forth between two worlds: the poor neighborhood that she lives in and the suburban prep school that she attends. Her world gets even more complicated when Starr witnesses the fatal shooting of her unarmed childhood best friend by a police officer. Now it is all up to Starr to set the record straight about what exactly happened. Ages 14-17

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The Best Kids Books to Read During Black History Month

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As we continue to celebrate Black History Month, it is important that kids start to learn more about black history and culture, and the best way to do that is through reading! Whether you are looking for early reader options or books for young adults, we have a list of some stories that are both a great read and educational.

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28 great kids’ books about Black history - Today’s Parent

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Civil rights, the abolition movement and the history of the Black community... These books facilitate good family discussion and honour Black History Month.

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Inside: The best kids books for black history month should be read not only in February, but all year round. Here are our very favorites! *This post contains affiliate links.
Black History Month. It's a celebration engrained in the fabric of our society, a month of learning and healing and remembering in our homes and schools.

The national celebration was established around 1976, when President Gerald Ford decreed it an annual American observance. His goal? To honor the frequently overlooked or neglected accomplishments of Black women and men across America.

Kids Books for Black History Month Celebrate Black Excellence!

Throughout our lives, and most notably during our grade school years, many of us studied the groundbreaking - even radical -accomplishments of important social justice advocates such as Martin Luther King and Rosa Parks. But African-Americans were not only leading the fight for civil rights. They were doing so much more to leave lasting and vital impacts on our world!

Contributions by Black Americans on our society were - and continue to be - nothing short of phenomenal. Yet, they are so frequently ignored. From artists to engineers, dancers to doctors, the stories of Black Americans who tenaciously broke boundaries and challenged societal norms are not just inspiring, but necessary to our country's beautiful, multi-layered tapestry. I am absolutely delighted that we are finally beginning to see these thrilling stories come to life through picture books.

While the children's publishing industry has made progress over the last couple of years, it continues its tremendous push to bring diverse books of superior quality to the market. There is a concentrated effort to publish more representative stories, including more biographies of Black men and women highlighting their remarkable achievements.

Though we still have significant work to do, the results are tangible. As our homes, schools, libraries and bookstores continually showcase these beautiful new books, the smiles that light up children's faces when they find themselves in stories for the first time is nothing short of magical.

Our Favorite Kids Books for Black History Month - and All Year Round!

As we head into Black History Month, Happily Ever Elephants is thrilled to share some of our favorite picture books. Below you'll find several outstanding picture books on Martin Luther King, Jr, as well as numerous biographies about Black men and women whose determination and accomplishments have left indelible contributions on our country.

And that's not all.

You'll also find a moments and movements section, which contains numerous breathtaking stories about slavery, the fight for civil rights, and even music and space. Happy reading!

ABC's of Black History, by Rio Cortez and illustrated by Lauren Semmer: What a fabulous primer this is to kick off this significant month! This wonderful, vibrant book takes on an alphabet journey through Black history and culture. Spanning continents and centuries, this informative book celebrates Black excellence in creativity and innovation, while also teaching about significant moments and iconic figures. This is an important book detailing American history, and it's one that families will love to read and refer to all year long. Support independent bookstores and get the book on Bookshop.org right here!

I Have a Dream, by Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and illustrated by Kadir Nelson: On August 28, 1963, MLK stood on the steps of the Lincoln Memorial in Washington D.C. during the March on Washington. It was there he delivered one of the most powerful speeches our nation has ever witnessed. His words from this monumental speech are paired with Nelson's exquisite paintings, making this a magnificent book to be treasured, memorized and honored for generations to come. Support independent bookstores and get the book on Bookshop.org right here!

Be a King: Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s Dream and You, by Carole Boston Weatherford and illustrated by James E. Ransome: I love reading this beautiful book with my youngest students, for it imparts all of the values MLK stood for, without going into the more painful details of his journey. This book encourages a new generation of young people to be kings by emulating MLK's remarkable character traits and actions. The lovely illustrations show kids how they can reenact his teachings in their own lives by always standing up for peace, breaking the chains of ignorance, and stamping out hatred by putting a foot down and standing tall. Support independent bookstores and get the book on Bookshop.org right here!

As Good As Anybody: Martin Luther King and Abraham Joshua Herschel's Amazing March Toward Freedom, by Richard Michelson and illustrated by Raul Colon: We all know the story of Martin Luther King, Jr., a Black boy who grew up to witness horrifying racial discrimination in America. He became a minister like his father before him, and subsequently rose to become one of the most visible and vital voices of the Civil Rights Movement. Abraham grew up years earlier in Europe, and as a Jewish man, he too, faced atrocious persecution. Abraham fled to America where he became a rabbi, and like MLK, he became a voice for equality. This is the story of how these two remarkable men came together as victims of discrimination, formed an unbreakable friendship, and used their voices to fight for peace and social justice. An extraordinary story, and a favorite to read to tweens. Support independent bookstores and get the book on Bookshop.org right here!

Martin's Big Words: The Life of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., by Doreen Rappaport and illustrated by Bryan Collier: Through his own famous quotes, this beautiful picture book brings MLK to life. Beginning with his life as a young boy and his vow to one day get "big words" like his father, to his death at a garbage worker's strike, this biography is a fabulous introduction to one of the most prominent voices of the Civil Rights Movement. This is one of my favorite books to read with early elementary students, for its simple narrative that doesn't stray from the gritty facts but hits all the right notes for younger readers. Age appropriate, powerful, and elegant. Support independent bookstores and get the book on Bookshop.org right here!

I am Martin Luther King, Jr., by Brad Meltzer and illustrated by Christopher Eliopoulous: We absolutely love the Ordinary People Change the World series for the way it tackles big stories and remarkable heroes in a kid-friendly, accessible manner. Through comic illustrations and word bubbles, this story gives voice to MLK as a child, then subsequently showcases his journey to changing the American landscape through peaceful protests and powerful words. This series is a favorite of my students. Support independent bookstores and get the book on Bookshop.org right here!

A Place to Land: Martin Luther King Jr. and the Speech that Inspired a Nation, by Barry Wittenstein and illustrated by Jerry Pinkney: In this powerful book, readers are given an inside glimpse into the makings of MLK's famous "I Have a Dream" speech. MLK believed that harder than beginning of a sermon was knowing where to end it: "It's terrible to be circling up there without a place to land," he once said. Finding a place to land proved challenging for for MLK on the night before his iconic speech, and the famous phrase, "I have a dream," wasn't even written down for inclusion in his words. Join MLK and his team of advisors and fellow speech writers as they prepared for this momentous day in American History. This one is an absolute beauty. Support independent bookstores and get the book on Bookshop.org right here!

Henry's Freedom Box: A True Story from the Underground Railroad, by Ellen Levine and illustrated by Kadir Nelson: Henry Brown was born into slavery, never even knowing his own birthday. Torn from his family at a young age, he is put to work at a warehouse. And though he grows up, marries, and has a family of his own, he is once again devastated when his own family is sold at a slave market. Henry longs to be a free man, and upon lifting a crate at his warehouse one day, he knows just what he must do: he will mail himself to freedom. Teach children about the Underground Railroad with this gripping true story. Support independent bookstores and get the book on Bookshop.org right here!

The Oldest Student: How Mary Walker Learned to Read, by Rita Lorraine Hubbard and illustrated by Oge Mora: Born into slavery in 1848, Mary Walker became a free woman when she was fifteen years old. Walker always wanted to learn to read, yet she was married shortly upon gaining her freedom, and then she became pregnant with her first child - followed by several more. There always seemed to be something standing in her way. Even at the age of 68, Walker continued to work, raising money for her church and always believing that one day she would learn the alphabet. That day finally came - when Walker was not only 116 years old, but also the last remaining member of her family. Proving that perseverance will forever empower you to conquer any goal you set your mind to, this is the remarkable true story of the world's oldest student. S upport independent bookstores and get the book on Bookshop.org right here!

The Power of Her Pen: The Story of Groundbreaking Journalist Ethel L. Payne, by Lesa Cline Ransome and illustrated by John Parra: Even as a young child, Ethel Payne loved stories. This passion for story led her to seek truth and justice, first as a reporter on her school newspaper in Chicago, then as a journalist in Japan during World War II. Yet she didn't stop there. Even after breaking numerous barriers, Payne was determined to break more: she became one of the first black journalist to enter the White House briefing room, asking tough questions of American presidents from President Dwight D. Eisenhower to Jimmy Carter, earning her the nickname "First Lady of the Black Press." Inspiring and powerful, this story of a fearless young woman shows all children to speak truth to power and never back down from fighting for justice. An absolute gem! Support independent bookstores and get the book on Bookshop.org right here!

Above the Rim: How Elgin Baylor Changed Basketball, by Jen Bryant and illustrated by Frank Morrison: Sports fanatics will love the story of Elgin Baylor, one of basketball's greatest players of all time. But despite his prowess on the court, many turned him away when his team traveled to away games - hotels wouldn't let him lodge and restaurants wouldn't allow him to eat simply because he was black. He eventually staged a protest - on his own - that captured the attention of the media and the NBA, and he will always be remembered as an advocate for positive change. The prose sings, the story is captivating, and the illustrations are beautiful. Support independent bookstores and get the book on Bookshop.org right here!

Rise! From Caged Bird to Poet of the People, by Bethany Hegedus and illustrated by Tonya Engel: In this visually and lyrically stunning biography, readers learn about Maya Angelou's life - a life defined by trauma and transformation, perseverance and passion. From working as a freedom fighter to becoming a world-renowned poet, Angelou's story is gently written but oh so powerful, an ode to the written word and the power of prose to heal, transform and unite. An utter beauty about a woman whose words have touched millions. Support independent bookstores and get the book on Bookshop.org right here!

Preaching to the Chickens: The Story of Young John Lewis, by Jabari Asim and illustrated by E.B. White: Provide kids with background on the Civil Rights movement and the childhood story of one of its most important heroes. John wants to be a preacher when he grows up - but he doesn't want to wait! Upon being put in charge of the family's farm, John discovers his chickens make an amazing congregation, and he begins preaching to them. John's journey - from addressing his farm animals to becoming one of the most vital voices of the Civil Rights Movement, to his stint as a Georgia Congressman to his continued contributions as a significant activist in America - is simply remarkable. Support independent bookstores and get the book on Bookshop.org right here!

Rosa by Nikki Giovanni and illustrated by Bryan Collier: Rosa Parks' refusal to give up her seat to a white man on the city bus in Montgomery, Alabama, remains one of the most pivotal moments - and remarkable actions - in American history. The stunning prose and cut paper illustrations are a winning combo here, bringing new life to Parks's perseverance, courageous story and steadfast commitment to the civil rights movement. Support independent bookstores and get the book on Bookshop.org right here!

Through My Eyes, by Ruby Bridges: At just six years old, Bridges became a focal point of the Civil Rights Movement when she walked, surrounded by federal marshals, through a mob of angry segregationists and became the first Black student at an all white school in New Orleans, Louisiana. This stunning memoir describes Bridge's courageous- and at times harrowing - journey, in her own words. It is a testament to hope, courage, and the lengths one innocent child went to be afforded an equal education to her white peers. Support independent bookstores and get the book on Bookshop.org right here!

Voice of Freedom: Fannie Lou Hamer, The Spirit of the Civil Rights Movement, by Carole Boston Weatherford and illustrated by Ekua Holmes: This gorgeous biography highlights the life and achievements of Fannie Lou Hamer, particularly her stunning accomplishments in connection with the Civil Rights Movement. Fannie, the youngest of twenty children, grew up in a family of sharecroppers. She endured hardship after hardship at her home in Mississippi but never gave up, eventually making it to the stage at the Democratic National Convention in 1964, giving a speech that roused support for the Freedom Democrats and was integral to civil rights for black Americans. Support independent bookstores and get the book on Bookshop.org right here!

The Youngest Marcher: The Story of Audrey Faye Hendricks, a Young Civil Rights Activist, by Cynthia Levinson and illustrated by Vanessa Brantley Newton: Inspire child activists with the true story of a little girl who fought for freedom despite her young age. At nine years old, Audrey wanted to go places. So when she heard grownups speaking about doing away with Birmingham's horrible segregation laws, she knew she wanted to be a part of it. Audrey stepped up with confidence, used her voice, and marched for freedom alongside thousands of children and teens. The youngest person to be arrested for protesting in Birmingham, Audrey's story shows that you are never too young to make a difference. Support independent bookstores and get the book on Bookshop.org right here!

Schomburg: The Man Who Built a Library, by Carole Boston Weatherford and illustrated by Eric Velasquez: This book absolutely blew me away. Schomburg tells the story of Arturo Schomburg, an Afro-Puerto Rican man who was astonished that people of African descent had no historians to bring their stories to life. Schomburg became determined to correct history, and his quest led him to curate a remarkable collection at the New York Public Library that became the cornerstone of the new Negro Division. I can't rave enough about this fascinating story - this was my favorite picture book biography of 2017. Support independent bookstores and get the book on Bookshop.org right here!

Take a Picture of Me James VanDerZee, by Andrea Loney and illustrated by Keith Mallett: James VanDerZee fell in love with the camera when he was just a young boy. He moved to the bustling world of New York City after school and got a job, only to be told by his boss that no white person would want their photographs to be taken by a black man. VanDerZee was undeterred and opened his own studio in Harlem where he took portraits of not just the ordinary neighborhood folk but prominent Harlem Renaissance figures as well, including Marcus Garvey, Florence Mills, and Bill "Bojangles" Robinson. His portraits were eventually displayed at the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York. Support independent bookstores and get the book on Bookshop.org right here!

Fancy Party Gowns: The Story of Fashion Designer Ann Cole Lowe, by Deborah Blumenthal and illustrated by Laura Freeman: Ann Cole Lowe, great grand-daughter of slaves, learned to use a needle and thread as soon as she could walk! She worked with her mother in their dress shop, sewing dresses for fancy ladies who had fancy parties to attend. Ann's mother died when Ann was only 16, and Ann eventually left home for New York City to pursue her dreams. She went to design school, but due to segregation Ann was forced to study on her own. Through it all, Ann never gave up. She studied, designed and sewed, working her way towards becoming society's "best kept secret" and designing dresses for Oscar winners and even Jackie Kennedy. Support independent bookstores and get the book on Bookshop.org right here!

Mae Among the Stars, by Roda Ahmed and illustrated by Stasia Barrington: This beauty of a book tells the story of Mae Jemison, the first African-American woman to travel to space! With her mother's words of encouragement continually whispered in her ears, Mae's intelligence and drive led her to conquer insurmountable odds until she found herself at NASA. "If you believe it, and work hard for it, anything is possible." You can even touch the stars. Support independent bookstores and get the book on Bookshop.org right here!

The Doctor With an Eye for Eyes: The Story of Dr. Patricia Bath, by Julia Finley Mosca and illustrated by Daniel Rieley: From toy chemistry sets to laser probes, this engaging, rhyming book tells the story of Dr. Patricia Bath, a woman born in Harlem with big dreams of becoming a doctor. Undeterred by the evils of sexism and racism, Dr. Bath persevered, eventually becoming an ophthalmologist and subsequently co-founding the American Institute for the Prevention of Blindness, a nonprofit organization dedicated to protecting, preserving and restoring the gift of sight. Another win for STEM! Support independent bookstores and get the book on Bookshop.org right here!

Between the Lines: How Ernie Barnes Went from the Football Field to the Art Gallery, by Sandra Neil Wallace and illustrated by Bryan Collier: My students fell hard for this fascinating story of Ernie Barnes, a young black man who loved art but took to playing football in order to make a living. After all, the south was segregated when Barnes grew up, and he knew there was no future in painting - there were no black artists in the museums! Nonetheless, despite his career as a professional football player, Barnes never stopped yearning to be an artist. He eventually conquered his dreams, painting for the NFL and influencing a generation of artists and illustrators. Support independent bookstores and get the book on Bookshop.org right here!

Champion: The Story of Muhammad Ali, by Jim Haskins and illustrated by Eric Velasquez: Sure there have been books about the great Muhammad Ali, but this one is a gem. With beautiful illustrations that at times are so real they look like photographs, this stunning biography of the great boxer and his commitment to social justice touches upon the struggles, successes and set backs of Muhammad Ali. It truly shines a light on his great legacy and will be a treasure for fans new and old. Support independent bookstores and get the book on Bookshop.org right here!

Trailblazer: The Story of Ballerina Raven Wilkinson, by Leda Schubert and illustrated by Theodore Taylor III: Today's generation of ballerinas admire and hope to emulate the great Misty Copeland. But do these young ladies know about the famous ballerina who inspired Misty herself? Raven Wilkinson was the first African-American woman to dance for a major classical ballet company, never letting racism and mockery hold her back from her dreams. Raven's persistence led her to dance for royalty in Holland and at the New York City Opera after that- until she was fifty years old. A must have for your little dancers. Support independent bookstores and get the book on Bookshop.org right here!

Game Changers: The Story of Venus and Serena Williams, by Lesa Cline-Ransom and illustrated by James E. Ransome: If you know kids who can't stop, won't stop when it comes to tennis or any sport, they will absolutely love this beautifully illustrated story of tennis stars and sisters Venus and Serena Williams. The dynamic sisters are two of the greatest athletes of all time, but they didn't become champions without dedication, talent, and a whole lot of heart. A wonderful story of perseverance and a testament to their tenacity and love for their sport. Support independent bookstores and get the book on Bookshop.org right here!

RESPECT: Aretha Franklin, the Queen of Soul, by Carole Boston Weatherford and illustrated by Frank Morrison: Aretha Franklin was practically born to sing! When she was just a child, her musical ability shined, with a voice spanning three octaves. As an adult, she had a multitude of hit songs, won numerous Grammy awards, and even won a coveted spot in the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. And when she wasn't singing, she used her voice to speak out against injustice, fighting hard for civil rights. This beautiful story - winner of the Coretta Scott King Illustrator Award - will have kids mesmerized as they learn about the Queen of Soul! Support independent bookstores and get the book on Bookshop.org right here!

Dream Big Dreams: Photographs from Barack Obama's Inspiring and Historic Presidency, by Pete Souza: Souza was President Obama's Official White House Photographer for two years and was with him during more critical moments of his presidency than anyone else. In this stunning book of approximately seventy-five photographs, Souza captures photos of Obama that showcase him as both an extraordinary leader and man, one who frequently engaged with America's youngest citizens and continually encouraged them to "dream big dreams." Support independent bookstores and get the book on Bookshop.org right here!

Little Leaders: Bold Women in Black History, by Vashti Harrison: This stunning anthology features snippets of 49 black women who, in their own various ways, helped change the world. From poets to pilots to politicians, the fascinating stories combined with stunning illustrations make this book a winner, conveying to our children how people can break barriers when they dream, persevere and never stop believing in themselves. Support independent bookstores and get the book on Bookshop.org right here!

Trombone Shorty, by Troy Andrews and illustrated by Bryan Collier: When he was a kid, Troy Andrews didn't have money to buy an instrument, but he did have a huge talent and love for music. When he was one day lifted into the air and onto the stage to play with Bo Diddley, he found his calling. Known as "Trombone Shorty" because he was a small boy with a trombone twice his size, this is the story of a boy from the Treme neighborhood of New Orleans and how he made his dreams come true. From Grammy nominations to shows before President Obama, Andrews' story will inspire young musicians everywhere! Support independent bookstores and get the book on Bookshop.org right here!

The Undefeated, by Kwame Alexander and illustrated by Kadir Nelson: In this exquisite work of poetry, only surpassed by Nelson's breathtaking artwork, Alexander takes readers on a journey through the Black experience in America. From the bitterness of slavery to the fervor of the civil rights movement to the perseverance and spirit of the country's most important leaders and heroes, this is a moving look at the manner in which Black Americans have overcome trauma to create lasting and indelible achievements in this country. Gripping, powerful, and achingly triumphant, this book is a force - a masterpiece that will be revered for years and years to come, by children and adults of all ages, colors and backgrounds. Absolutely gorgeous. Support independent bookstores and get the book on Bookshop.org right here!

Freedom Over Me: Eleven Slaves, Their Dreams and Their Lives Brought to Life, by Ashley Bryan: This stunning book of poetry incorporates actual documents from an estate appraisal on July 5, 1828, valuing the will and worth of eleven slaves who live and work on the plantation. The only thing that can not be valued? The dreams of these men and women. On stunning collaged spreads, each slave is given a voice, with one page describing the "worth" and skills he or she brings to the plantation, while the other page explores the dreams that each slave wishes he could achieve with those skills. Powerful, astonishing, and incredibly emotional, this is a stunning achievement and an important, unique look at this stain on American history. Support independent bookstores and get the book on Bookshop.org right here!

Freedom in Congo Square, by Carole Boston Weatherford and illustrated by R. Gregory Christie: In this poetic work of nonfiction, readers learn about a little-known piece of Black history. Though slaves toiled during the week in nineteenth century Louisiana, they counted down to Sunday afternoons - a time when they congregated at Congo Square in New Orleans. Here they could temporarily forget about their oppression and, for several hours, sing, dance, play, and even open up a market. Congo Square was a place of celebration, freedom, hope and resilience, and it helped black men and women maintain some of their significant cultural traditions. Support independent bookstores and get the book on Bookshop.org right here!

Let the Children March, by Monica Clark-Robinson and illustrated by Frank Morrison: After hearing the powerful words of Martin Luther King, Jr., many Black children volunteered to march for their civil rights in protest of the laws that forbid them from attending the same schools, playing on the same playgrounds, and drinking from the same water fountains, as white children. Despite their fears, these children faced hatred and danger to march in The Children's Crusade, using their voices to change the world. Support independent bookstores and get the book on Bookshop.org right here!

A Ride to Remember: A Civil Rights Story, by Sharon Langley and Amy Nathan and illustrated by Floyd Cooper: When Sharon Langley was born in 1960, African Americans were forbidden from enjoying amusement parks due to segregation. In the summer of 1963, however, as a result of passionate demonstrations and protests, the Gwynn Oak Amusement Park outside of Baltimore, Maryland opened its doors to all. This is the true story of Sharon Langley and her family - the first African Americans to walk into the park - and Sharon's famous ride on the carousel. A symbol of both integration and hope, this powerful work includes detailed back matter, real photographs, and a note from Sharon herself. Support independent bookstores and get the book on Bookshop.org right here!

Freedom Summer, by Deborah Wiles and illustrated by Jerome Lagarrigue: This remarkable story -historical fiction - describes what happened after the passage of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, forbidding segregation. When two best friends, one white and one black, discovered the town pool would now be open to everyone, the two boys raced each other there, only to be in for a very rude awakening. Use this story as a springboard to discuss segregation and the unfortunate reality that it takes more than new laws to eclipse hate. One of my very, very favorite stories - incredibly powerful and thought-provoking. Support independent bookstores and get the book on Bookshop.org right here!

Sit In: How Four Friends Stood Up by Sitting Down, by Andrea Davis Pinkney and illustrated by Brian Pinkney: This wonderful book celebrates the Woolworth's lunch counter sit-in, when four college students, following Martin Luther King's example of peaceful protest, sat down at the "white's only" counter at Woolworths and placed a simple order for a doughnut and coffee with cream. This sit-in became a defining moment in the struggle for civil rights and racial equality in America. Support independent bookstores and get the book on Bookshop.org right here!

Lillian's Right to Vote: A Celebration of the Voting Rights Act of 1965, by Jonah Winter and illustrated by Shane W. Evans: This is a powerful historical picture book about a 100 year old African-American woman who makes a long trek up a steep hill to vote for the very first time. As she walks, she remembers her family history - from the passage of the fifteenth amendment to her parents registering to vote, from the impossible tests given to prevent Black men and women from voting to marching in the civil rights protest from Selma to Montgomery. Moving, lyrical and tremendously important, this is a fabulous glimpse at American history. Support independent bookstores and get the book on Bookshop.org right here!

The Case for Loving: The Fight for Interracial Marriage, by Selina Alko and illustrated by Sean Qualls: I love this beautiful, non-fiction book about the Lovings and their fight to make interracial marriage legal in every state across America. Richard (a white man) and Mildred (a Black woman) fell in love and got married - yet, marriage between people of different races was illegal in Virginia and they were thus forced to marry legally in Washington D.C.. After their marriage, the police barged into their Virginia home and jailed the couple, prompting a fight against the unfair law that ended up before the Supreme Court - where the Lovings won. A fabulous intro to the Lovings and the fight for marriage equality. Support independent bookstores and get the book on Bookshop.org right here!

Hidden Figures: The True Story of Four Black Women and the Space Race, by Margot Lee Shetterly and illustrated by Laura Freeman: Did you love this movie? Well now you can share the inspiring story of these four brilliant women with your kids and students. Hidden Figures is the captivating true story of four Black women who lived at a time when being Black- and being women - limited their abilities to do what they wanted to do: math. And they were really good at math. Did they let societal and gender norms stand in their way? Absolutely not... and so they broke boundaries. This book is outstanding. Support independent bookstores and get the book on Bookshop.org right here!

Jazz Day: The Making of a Famous Photograph, by Roxanne Orgill and illustrated by Francis Vallejo: We are in love with this beautiful tribute to jazz musicians in the fifties! In 1958, Esquire Magazine planned to salute the American jazz scene in one of its issues. One graphic designer had a crazy idea to gather and photograph a group of beloved Black musicians on a Harlem stoop. The photograph became iconic, and this fascinating collection of poetry celebrates the lives - and even quirks - of some of America's most beloved musicians. Support independent bookstores and get the book on Bookshop.org right here!

Roots of Rap: 16 Bars and the 4 Pillars of Hip Hop, by Carole Boston Weatherford and illustrated by Frank Morrison: Did you know that hip hop has its roots in folktales and poetry? That rap music long preceded DJ Cool Herc and Grandmaster Flash? With a forward by Swiss Beatz, this vibrant book uses the four pillars (graffiti, break dancing, rapping/MCing and DJing) to illustrate how hip hop is a language spoken around the globe, including nods to some of the music's most prominent artists today. Support independent bookstores and get the book on Bookshop.org right here!

We hope you commemorate Black History Month in your homes and schools with these outstanding works of children's literature. Enjoy!

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The Essential List of the Best Kids Books for Black History Month

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Inside: The best kids books for black history month should be read not only in February, but all year round. Here are our very favorites! *This post contains affiliate links. Black History Month. It's a celebration engrained in the fabric of our society, a month of learning and healing and remembering in our homes and schools.

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17 Kids' Books to Read During Black History Month (and All Year Long)

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We talked to librarians, teachers, activists, and an independant book publisher about the books to read during Black history month and beyond including Your Name Is a Song by Jamilah Thompkins-Bigelow and Our Skin: A First Conversation About Race.

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When my daughter was in preschool, one of the highlights of the calendar was the Lunar New Year celebration. Some of the children would perform the Lion Dance, others demonstrated a Korean bowing ceremony, and everyone got a chance to eat noodles, dim sum, and other Chinese treats. This Lunar New Year, which includes Chinese New Year, begins on January 25th. To celebrate the Year of the Rat, here are eight books to share with your little ones. Gōngxǐ fācái ! (Health and prosperity!)

by Carolyn Otto

Celebrate Chinese New Year is the latest addition to National Geographic's popular Holidays Around the World series. With dozens of colorful images and clear, accessible text, this book is a lively introduction to Lunar New Year.
(Ages 6 - 9)

by Karen Chinn, illustrated by Cornelius Van Wright and Ying-Hwa Hu

When Sam's grandparents give him lucky money in red envelopes called leisees for Chinese New Year, he can't wait to spend it. Lush watercolor illustrations from Cornelius Van Wright and Ying-Hwa Hu bring Sam's shopping trip to life in this moving story about a boy who learns a powerful lesson about giving.
(Ages 4 - 8)

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8 Picture Books to Celebrate Lunar New Year | Brightly

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When my daughter was in preschool, one of the highlights of the calendar was the Lunar New Year celebration. Some of the children would perform the Lion Dance, others demonstrated a Korean bowing ceremony, and everyone got a chance to eat noodles, dim sum, and other Chinese treats.

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Chinese New Year, also known as Spring Festival, is a traditional and important holiday celebrated in China, Hong Kong, Taiwan, Vietnam, Malaysia, and other Asian countries and communities around the globe.

People travel long distances to reunite with family and participate in traditions that occur before, during, and after the New Year.
Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you click through and make a purchase, we receive a small commission at no extra charge to you. Chinese New Year Date
The date for the festival changes every year because it is based on the Chinese lunar calendar (using the phases of the moon). Chinese New Year, the first day of the first lunar month, usually falls somewhere between the middle of January and the middle of February.

A cycle of 12 animal signs are associated with each Chinese calendar year. Each new year starts a new animal's zodiac year.

The animals, in order, are rat, ox, tiger, rabbit, dragon, snake, horse, ram, monkey, rooster, dog, and pig.

2019 February 5 Pig

2020 January 25 Rat

2021 February 12 Ox

2022 February 1 Tiger

2023 January 22 Rabbit
Chinese New Year Zodiac Animals
There are many books and videos retelling the legendary race that led to the 12 signs.

Add story sticks and a printable zodiac fan to engage students during the story and aid in retelling the tale after.
Chinese New Year Traditions
Preparations begin days before. People get ready to welcome the new year by thoroughly cleaning their home - sweeping out the old and getting ready for the new - and buying new clothes. Houses are decorated with red lanterns, couplets, and paper cutouts.

Children receive red envelopes with "lucky money" that they can spend how they choose. The amount is usually an even number and cannot be divided by four. (The number 4 sounds like "death" in Chinese and is considered bad luck.)

The bills are new and crisp, and no coins are included. Red envelopes should always be received with both hands and not opened in front of the person who gives the envelope.

Make Your Own! Chalk Academy offers FREE printable red envelopes in simplified and traditional Chinese.

Fun Fact: Red is a popular color for the celebration. In Chinese culture, it is the symbol of happiness, wealth, and good fortune. Red attracts good luck and dispels evil spirits.

The "reunion dinner" on New Year's Eve is an important time to gather with family and is considered the most important meal of the year. Foods with lucky meanings are included, such as dumplings, sticky rice cake, spring rolls, and fish. After the feast, it is common to watch the Spring Festival Gala on tv and set-off fireworks to bring in the new year.

Chinese people believe that their luck for the coming year is based on what they do on the first day of the lunar year. New clothes are worn and wishes of good luck and happiness are shared.

Traditional Chinese dances such as the lion dance and dragon dance are performed during the Spring Festival and are believed to bring good luck. Lion dances are performed by two dancers and the dragon dances are performed by a group of acrobatic dancers. Enjoy this video filmed by Matt Love at Shanghai's Spring Festival in 2011.

The Lantern Festival, on the fifteenth day of the new year, marks the traditional end to the Chinese New Year celebration. People release glowing lanterns into the sky or set them afloat on rivers or lakes.
Photo Credit Red Envelopes: Deposit Photos Standard License

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Chinese New Year Resources & Activities | Globe Trottin' Kids

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Chinese New Year, also known as Spring Festival, is a traditional and important holiday celebrated in China, Hong Kong, Taiwan, Vietnam, Malaysia, and other Asian countries and communities around the globe. People travel long distances to reunite with family and participate in traditions that occur before, during, and after the New Year.

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Lunar New Year Traditions: Free Teaching Resources

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Explore free resources for comparing and contrasting the Lunar New Year with New Year traditions in other countries.

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Event Description

Today is the first day of the New Year on the Chinese lunar calendar. Each year of the calendar's 12-year cycle is represented by an animal. According to the Chinese zodiac, people born during a given year share traits with that animal. 2024 is the Year of the Dragon. Those born in the Year of the Dragon are known to be vigorous, ambitious, and honest.

Classroom Activity

Introduce students to the Chinese New Year by having them explore the Chinese zodiac. Begin the activity by having each student write five to eight adjectives or phrases that describe his or her personality traits. These should not be physical characteristics like hair color or height, but qualities such as "a good sense of humor," "honest," or "a risk-taker."

Then, have students look at the Chinese zodiac to find a description of the attibutes people would have if they were born in the same year they were. For younger students, try the Chinese Calendar, and for older students, try Chinese Horoscopes.

Once students have read their animal's attributes, have them explain how the animal does or does not seem to represent them. They should use specific examples from their own experiences to support what they say. For example, if the zodiac says that they have difficulty with authority, students should write about a time when they resisted (or did not resist) an authority figure.

Next, students can look through the other animal signs to see which one best represents them and write a persuasive piece describing why that sign fits them best.

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Event Description Today is the first day of the New Year on the Chinese lunar calendar. Each year of the calendar's 12-year cycle is represented by an animal. According to the Chinese zodiac, people born during a given year share traits with that animal. 2024 is the Year of the Dragon.

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Ring in the new year! The Chinese New Year spans fifteen days. Make the most of this extended holiday with the printables, lessons, quizzes, and references below for kindergarten through twelfth grade. Use the many language arts and literature resources to learn about the history of Lunar New Year celebrations. Familiarize your class with the Chinese calendar, try traditional recipes, and make dragon puppets for class decorations.

Educational Videos

Our short videos with activities are a great way to introduce the Chinese New Year and its traditions to your students while enhancing your teaching strategies.

Printables

Use our printables to extend students' learning about the Chinese New Year by making musical instruments such as the Erhu and Koto, creating a dragon puppet, making mooncake cookies, and learning a traditional Chinese folk song.

Quizzes

Test your students' knowledge about the Chinese New Year with these quizzes during Asian-Pacific-American Heritage Month.

Lesson Plans

Choose from our Lesson Plans to teach students about the Chinese New Year. Includes lessons on making paper, different forms of Chinese music, and Chinese money.

Art Activities for Chinese New Year

Incorporate art into your lessons for the Chinese New Year to expand students' knowledge by creating a story cloth to learn about different Chinese cultures and customs.

Chinese Music Resources

Increase students' knowledge of and interest in the Chinese New Year by introducing them to Chinese music styles, vocal music and instrumental, as well as Chinese traditions.

References

These references for the Chinese New Year will keep your students engaged while learning about the Chinese calendar and information on the Chinese New Year.

Chinese New Year Literature Resources

Teach your students about the Chinese and Asian cultures by using our Chinese New Year Literature Resources and enrichment activities.

Language Arts Activities for Chinese New Year

Interconnect these Language Arts activities with your lessons on the Chinese New Year to enhance studentsâ€™ learning. Includes vocabulary and spelling printables as well as a word scramble.

Chinese New Year History Resources

Explore our history resources and increase your teaching strategies with reading passages about the history of chopsticks and tea, the art of Feng Shui, and the development of "Chinatowns" in major cities of the United States.

Asian-American History Resources

Keep your students engaged with our Asian-American Resources including a slideshow on the Chinese New Year, making musical instruments and paper, and a book about a young Chinese girl's experience in the United States.

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The Chinese New Year spans fifteen days. Make the most of this extended holiday with printables, lessons, quizzes, and references for kindergarten through 12th grade. Use the many language arts and literature resources to learn about Lunar New Year.

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UPDATED JANUARY 2020!

The Chinese New Year - also known as the Spring Festival or Lunar New Year - starts with the first new moon of the year and is welcomed with a 15-day celebration in many Asian communities around the world.

The Chinese zodiac assigns an animal to each year in a repeating twelve-year cycle. In 2020 the Chinese New Year starts on January 25 which marks the start of the year of the rat - a symbol of vitality.

Celebrate with some of these gorgeous children's books about the Chinese New Year!

21 Children's Books about the Chinese New Year

Babies & Toddlers

From colourful lanterns, to beautiful traditional clothes, to the special animals that each year is named after, Baby's First Chinese New Year is a delightful celebration of one of Asia's biggest and brightest celebrations. ~ Babies & Toddlers

Follow a cute little girl as she experiences Chinese New Year for the first time. With colourful paper-cut illustrations featuring Katz's signature round-faced babies and toddlers, My first Chinese New Year is a sweet introduction to the customs of a traditional Chinese New Year celebration for the little ones. ~ Babies & Toddlers

With beautiful artwork by Chinese illustrator Alina Chau, this festive board book teaches readers that Lunar New Year is a time to spend with family and friends, to light lanterns, and set off fireworks, dance with dragons, and to live the new year in harmony and happiness. ~ Preschool

Written in English and Mandarin, Chinese New Year's Wishes follows Hong and his family as they prepare for the celebrations. More interesting facts and questions for discussion are included at the back of the book. ~ Preschool

Bringing in the New Year is an exuberant picture book that follows a Chinese American family's New Year's preparations. They sweep out the dust of the old year, hang decorations, and make dumplings. Then it's time to put on new clothes and celebrate with fireworks, lion dancers, shining lanterns, and a long dragon parade. ~ Preschool

"Wash your hair and get a new haircut. Pay the debts that you owe and collect what is owed to you!" The Chinese New Year is all about fresh starts. The last 15 days of the old year are spent cleaning and preparing for the new year, and the first 15 days of the new year are spent with joyful festivities. Happy, Happy Chinese New Year! is a delightful celebration of the rituals and ideas behind the Chinese New Year festival. ~ Preschool

Ruby has a special card to give to her grandmother for Chinese New Year. But who will help her get to grandmother's house to deliver it? Will it be clever Rat, strong Ox, or cautious Rabbit? Ruby's Chinese New Year follows a little girl as meets each of the twelve zodiac animals on her journey to deliver a gift to her grandmother.

"We shop for fresh fish / and plum blossoms here. / We buy things to celebrate / Chinese New Year!" It's Chinese New Year and there are so many fun things to do - from shopping at the market to receiving red envelopes and watching the spectacular Chinese New Year's parade! Dragon Dance is a fun lift-the-flap book that introduces Chinese New Year customs to the youngest readers. ~ Preschool

Chelsea gets to stay up late for the Chinese New Year's celebrations. She helps with the preparations, enjoys the big family feast and watches fireworks and the dragon parade. Chelsea's Chinese New Year is a vibrantly illustrated picture book that teaches young children about this important Chinese holiday. ~ Preschool

Follow a family as they let off firecrackers, watch the amazing dragon dances and light their beautiful lanterns to celebrate the start of the Chinese New Year. With simple text and charming illustrations, Lanterns and Firecrackers is a perfect introduction to Chinese New Year customs. Includes historical and cultural information. ~ Preschool

Little Mei wants to know why her family celebrates the Chinese New Year. "We celebrate because we get to wear new clothes", says her sister. "We celebrate because grown-ups give us children packets filled with money", her brother tells her. But Grandpa tells her the story of Nian and monster Xi. With a sweet story line and engaging illustrations, Celebrating the Chinese New Year will appeal to young children everywhere. ~ Preschool

Little Mao-Mao is excited: Her father - who works far away - is coming home for Chinese New Year! Together the family prepares for the celebrations, and on the day of the Dragon parade, Mao-Mao gets to ride on her father's shoulders. When he has to leave again, Mao-Mao has a special gift for him. Award-winning A New Year's Reunion is a poignant, vibrantly illustrated New Year's story that will resonate with any child missing a relative. ~ Preschool

Sam visits Chinatown with his mother to spend his Chinese New Year money. As they walk through the streets bustling with festive activity, Sam accidentally steps on a homeless man's foot and starts to think about his "lucky money" in a new light. Sam and The Lucky Money is a touching, timeless story about giving and appreciation. ~ Preschool

Goldy Luck and the Three Pandas is a Chinese American retelling of "Goldilocks and the Three Bears". Little Goldy Luck wreaks havoc on the home of a family of panda bears, eating up the rice porridge, breaking the rocking chair, and rumples all the blankets. When Goldy takes responsibility for her actions, she makes a new friend just in time for Chinese New Year. Includes an author's note on the Chinese New Year and a turnip cake recipe. ~ Preschool

Elementary School

Lunar New Year is Mulan's favourite festival! There is a lot to do to prepare for this important celebration, and for the first time, Mulan is old enough to help out. But everything she does seems to turn out wrong. Mulan's Lunar New Year the unique sense of magic, imagination, and possibility that surrounds the holiday! ~ Elementary School

Part of National Geographic's popular Holidays Around the World series, Celebrate Chinese New Year is a lively introduction to the joyous holiday. With colourful images and simple, educational text, the book brings the historical and cultural aspects of the Chinese New Year into focus. ~ Elementary School

On Chinese New Year's Eve, a poor family sends their son to trade their last eggs for rice. When Ming comes home with an old wok instead, his parents don't know what to do. But then the wok rolls out of the house singing "Skippity-hoppity-ho! / To the rich man's wife I go!" and returns with food, toys, and money. With repetitive text and colourful, detailed illustrations, The Runaway Wok teaches children about the importance of generosity. ~ Elementary School

A Chinese Korean boy looks forward to the "lunar new year, the day of the first new moon." He describes how his family celebrates, and what his hopes for the new year are. With spare, lyrical text and energetic pictures, This Next New Year captures a child's determination to face the new year with courage and optimism. ~ Elementary School

Thirteen creatures have come to the river to join in the Emperor's race. The winner will get the honour of naming the first year of the new calendar. The Great Race is a beautifully illustrated retelling of an ancient legend that introduces children to the concept of the Chinese Zodiac. ~ Elementary School

Thirteen animals are racing for only twelve places on the Zodiac. Who will be honest, and who devious? Who will help friends along the way? Who will come first, and who will miss out? With gorgeous illustrations based on Chinese painting techniques, The Race for the Chinese Zodiac is a lively retelling of the legendary animals' race. ~ Elementary School

Part of the 'On My Own Holidays' series, Chinese New Year is a colourful introduction to this important Chinese holiday. With expressive paintings and clear, informative text, the book explains traditions and festive activities, the Chinese zodiac, and traditional symbols of the new year. ~ Elementary School

*You can buy any of the books on this site from Amazon USA, CAN or UK by clicking on the book titles or images*

More Asian & Asian American Children's Books:
Asian - Babies & Toddlers Asian - Preschool Asian - Elementary School Asian - Middle School Asian - High School (YA)

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21 Children's Books about the Chinese New Year - Colours of Us

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UPDATED JANUARY 2020! The Chinese New Year - also known as the Spring Festival or Lunar New Year - starts with the first new moon of the year and is welcomed with a 15-day celebration in many Asian communities around the world. The Chinese zodiac assigns an animal to each year in a repeating twelve-year cycle.

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30+ Chinese New Year Books for Kids - The Educators’ Spin On It

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The largest collection of Chinese New Year Books for kids to welcome the new year with your child. 30+ books highlight various Chinese New Year traditions.

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Chinese New Year is a time when families come together for celebration and reflection. We've gathered some great picture books about Chinese New Year to help your students learn about this special holiday celebrated worldwide.

Why Read Picture Books about Chinese New Year and Lunar New Year?

There is a growing number of picture books about Chinese New Year and Lunar New Year. They illustrate the cultural significance of the celebration and the importance of family at this time.

These picture books help your students learn about the history and traditions and how Chinese New Year is celebrated worldwide.

Some books use the name Chinese New Year and others Lunar New Year. The latter is increasingly used to refer to the celebration in countries other than China. While the celebrations have the same meaning, different countries celebrate in their own unique ways.

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you purchase anything through them, I will get a small referral fee and you will be supporting me and my blog at no extra cost to you, so thank you! You can find more information .

Picture Books about Chinese New Year
Angel in Beijing by Belle Yang
A girl's cat jumps to catch one of the colourful dragon kites during the Dragon Boat Festival in Tiananmen Square. As the girl searches through Beijing she wonders if she will ever be reunited with her pet cat.
Bringing in the New Year by Grace Lin
Three daughters wait with excitement for the Chinese New Year. The New Year is ushered in with the awakening of a dragon by the surrounding banging of drums and gongs.

Cat and Rat: The Legend of the Chinese Zodiac by Ed Young

The Jade Emperor challenges the animals to a race. Cat and Rat are best friends but the temptation to win the race is too much for Rat. He tricks Cat, causing it to miss out on becoming one of the twelve animals of the Chinese zodiac

Chinese New Year Colors by Richard Lo

Discover the colours of Chinese New Year, including food, gifts, fireworks, and lucky coins. This bilingual book about one of the large festivals in the world introduces Chinese and English words for colours.

Friends Are Friends, Forever by Dane Liu

Dandan spends her last night in China before immigrating to America with her best friend, Yueyue. It is Chinese New Year's Eve, and the girls make red snowflakes and hang them outside. Yueyue gives Dandan red paper and a spool of red thread for her to carry on their tradition in America. It takes time, but Dandan finds a new friend to make red paper snowflakes with.

A Gift by Yong Chen

Amy receives a surprise Chinese New Year gift from her aunt and uncles in China. The parcel contains a carved, jade pendant shaped like a dragon. This symbol of China expresses love for their family.

New Clothes for New Year's Day by Hyun-Joo Bae

In Korea, the new year means the start of everything new. A young girl wears a new and special hanbok made by her mother and prepares to celebrate the Lunar New Year.

Read to promote discussions on the Lunar New Year, family, celebrations and traditions.
The Runaway Wok: A Chinese New Year Tale by Ying Chang Compestine
A poor man, Ming Zhang, works for, Li, the richest man in Beijing. He sends his son to trade their last eggs for a bag of rice, but he returns with a singing wok. The wok hops to the greedy Li family, filling itself with food and gold once stolen from others. The Ming family share the fortune and food with other needy villagers.

What Next?

Do you use picture books about the Chinese New Year and Lunar New Year in your classroom? I would like to discover more Lunar New Year picture books. Let me know in the comments!

You may find these resources useful to use with your students.

BBC Newsround: What is Chinese New Year?

Encyclopaedia Britannica: Chinese New Year

Pin for Later!

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Picture Books about Chinese New Year for the Classroom

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Chinese New Year is a time when families come together for celebration and reflection. We've gathered some great picture books about Chinese New Year to help your students learn about this special holiday celebrated worldwide. There is a growing number of picture books about Chinese New Year and Lunar New Year.

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Lunar New Year is celebrated all over the world and is a time to focus on family, traditions, and culture. This year on January 22, many family and friends will gather to ring in the year of the rabbit. With rich illustrations, fun facts, and loveable characters (like Peppa Pig), the titles on this list are sure to become favorites in your classroom as your teach about this wonderful holiday.

These books will help you bring Lunar New Year celebrations into your classroom. Use them to help teach students about the history behind this ancient holiday and the customs and traditions that families participate in to celebrate, from years past to today.

Shop books about Lunar New Year below! You can find all books and activities at The Teacher Store.

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10 Books to Celebrate Lunar New Year | Scholastic

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Lunar New Year is celebrated all over the world and is a time to focus on family, traditions, and culture. This year on January 22, many family and friends will gather to ring in the year of the rabbit.

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If you're looking for a Holidays Around the World Book List for K-2 learners, here you go!

In my Christmas Around the World Unit for K-2 learners, I included a section on three more holidays around Christmastime 1- Hanukkah, 2- Kwanzaa, and 3- The Chinese New Year. This prompted me to create this book list.

*This post contains affiliate links.

Holidays Around the World Book List

Quick disclaimers:
My goal in providing this list isn't necessarily to be comprehensive. Nor is my goal to say that I practice or teach each holiday as truth. As a Jesus follower, I believe that one of my jobs is to expose my children to the world and beliefs around them. We discuss the differences (or similarities) that we have with others. I believe this can deepen my kids' faith and their appreciation for all people.

I did not read all of these books to my learners. You will want to do your own research on each book to see if it fits your needs.

Click on the image or any link under each image to read more about it or grab a copy for your own library.

Holidays Around the Word Overview Books

-Kids Around the World Celebrate - a VERY comprehensive book, even great for middle schoolers
-Lights of Winter - not as comprehensive, but still a good overview
-The Return of Light: 12 Tales Around the World for Winter Solstice
-Days of the Year books by Wendy Pfeffer

Hanukkah

-The Story of Hanukkah {my favorite one in this Hanukkah list}
-The Borrowed Latkes
-Eight Candles to Light {great for younger kids}
-Latkes and Applesauce: A Hanukkah Story

Kwanzaa

-The Story of Kwanzaa {very informative}
-7 Spools of Kwanzaa {a creative to story to tell about the 7 days of Kwanzaa}
-My First Kwanzaa {more for younger kids}
-Kwanzaa Kids {also for younger learners}

The Chinese New Year

-Lion Dancer {I wish this was easier to find...such a great book!}
-Dragon Dance {good for young learners}
-Sam and the Lucky Money
-Celebrate Chinese New Year

Other Holidays

-Let's Celebrate 5 Days of Diwali!
-Golden Domes and Silver Lanterns
-Celebrate Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur
-The Thanksgiving Story

You Might Also Like:
Christmas Around the World Book List
Enjoy!
~Becky

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Holidays Around the World Book List for K-2 Learners - This Reading Mama

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If you're looking for a Holidays Around the World Book List for K-2 learners, here you go! In my Christmas Around the World Unit for K-2 learners, I included a section on three more holidays around Christmastime 1- Hanukkah, 2- Kwanzaa, and 3- The Chinese New Year.

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Who even needs the hottest toy when you have piles and piles of great Christmas books for kids to read?

Every editorial product is independently selected, though we may be compensated or receive an affiliate commission if you buy something through our links. Ratings and prices are accurate and items are in stock as of time of publication.

Christmas books for kids and kids-at-heart

Christmas is a time for telling and sharing stories, and what better way to do that than with these magical Christmas books for kids? Reading is one of the best Christmas activities for the whole family. So we've put together a collection of these must-read additions to your bookshelf, from cherished classics to modern masterpieces, arranged by target age. Of course, there are plenty of great Christmas books for grown-ups and all ages, too. And you can add to your holiday celebration with the best Christmas movies for kids, too!

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40 Best Christmas Books for Kids That Bring Magic to the Holidays

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Every editorial product is independently selected, though we may be compensated or receive an affiliate commission if you buy something through our links. Ratings and prices are accurate and items are in stock as of time of publication. Christmas is a time for telling and sharing stories, and what better way to do that than with these magical Christmas books for kids?

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No matter our color, ZIP code, or language, we want all our children to have a public education that imparts honesty about who we are, the integrity in how we treat each other, and the freedom to pursue our dreams.

Hispanic Heritage Month is not only a time for those of Hispanic and Latino descent to celebrate their cultural roots but also an occasion for people from all backgrounds to learn, appreciate, and celebrate the rich tapestry of Hispanic and Latino cultures.

Despite efforts by some politicians today to whitewash history, to restrict our freedoms to teach and to learn, throughout our history, Hispanic and Latino communities have left an indelible mark on the fields of art, music, literature, science, politics, education, and countless other domains. Their enduring legacy is not only a source of pride for those who share this heritage but also a source of inspiration for all of us who recognize the power of diversity in shaping our shared humanity.

Through this list of curated resources, books, lessons, videos and activities, we invite you to explore, learn, and celebrate the vibrant heritage and contributions of Hispanic and Latino communities to our world.

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Celebrate National Hispanic Heritage month with the following lessons, activities, videos, and more.

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December is a MAGICAL (albeit exhausting) time to be a teacher. I love the innocence of children during this time and all of the ways we can leverage the excitement of the season in our classrooms. Teaching Holidays Around the World is one of those ways! Here are three ways you can teach holidays around the world in your classroom as well as a lovely book list to help you incorporate holidays around the world picture books.

Holidays Around the World Literacy Activities

I searched and searched for literacy resources for teaching holidays around the world. I couldn't find what I wanted, so I set to work creating my own! I finally came up with a way that made me EXCITED for teaching about all the holidays and Christmas traditions around the world! I created letters between pen pals describing holiday traditions in different locations. These letters have proven to be SO engaging to my students. They love reading the original letter as well as the response from another country, which essentially serves as a compare and contrast piece about their holiday celebrations. I have also included several activities for the booklets. This unit will last you all the way through winter break!

Holidays Around the World Books

I love to incorporate multiple sources and perspectives during my holidays around the world unit. I included the pen pal letters, informational text to accompany the letters, and then I supplement with amazing picture books to provide another perspective and source. I have compiled a list of books that I've used to teach different countries and their holidays and traditions (all linked with Amazon affiliate links below). You can also see the complete book list in one spot here on Amazon. An asterisk means the country or tradition is also included in my pen pal set.

Christmas Around the World Locations, Legends, and Traditions

*Sweden: The Tomten, Tomten Saves Christmas

*Germany: Cobweb Christmas

*Iceland: The Legend of the Icelandic Yule Lads

Italy: The Legend of Old Befana

*Mexico: The Legend of the Poinsettia, The Night of Las Posadas

US: Red & Lulu (Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree)

Nigeria: Christmas in Lagos

*Japan: Tree of Cranes

*Spain: The Story of the Three Wise Kings

Holidays Around the World Celebrations

*Kwanzaa: Celebrate Kwanzaa National Geographic Kids, Together for Kwanzaa

*Hanukkah: Meet The Latkes, Red & Green and Blue & White, Hanukkah Bear, Shmelf the Hanukkah Elf

*Chinese New Year: The Runaway Wok

*Diwali: Amma, Tell Me About Diwali

*Ramadan: The Gift of Ramadan, Ramadan Moon, A Moon for Moe and Mo

*St. Nicholas Day: A Wooden Shoe for Nell, The Legend of St. Nicholas

Christmas Around the World Books
A World of Cookies for Santa Where Would Santa Go? My Santa Your Santa
Holidays Around the World Math

I also wanted my students to be able to explore some of the countries we explored even more, and my students LOVE math projects, so my Holidays Around the World Math Project was born! This math project has students exploring so many different locations (all of which are mentioned in the literacy project above), calculating their plane ticket prices, buying souvenirs that are relevant to each location's holiday celebrations, purchasing yummy traditional foods, and partaking in local activities, all while practicing their math skills!

Students are given a budget, a few trip requirements, and price sheets. It has been differentiated to meet the needs of 3 rd-5 th graders, so it's perfect for differentiation within the classroom, too! My students are OBSESSING over this project right now!

More Holiday Activities

If you're looking for more holiday activities, here's the ultimate list of holiday activities for bigger kids and my top ten favorite holiday activities for the classroom. If you're in a rush and looking for super simple print-and-go activities, this bundle of FREE winter math downloads is a must!

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Holidays Around the World Activities - Teaching with a Mountain View

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December is a MAGICAL (albeit exhausting) time to be a teacher. I love the innocence of children during this time and all of the ways we can leverage the excitement of the season in our classrooms. Teaching Holidays Around the World is one of those ways!

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Have you ever stopped to wonder why we wear Halloween costumes, celebrate Thanksgiving in November, or choose valentines in February? These familiar traditions have fascinating and sometimes surprising origins. Get to know the history and significance behind these U.S. holidays (and more!) with this new collection of resources.

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Holidays around the world activities are perfect for the month of December. While many schools encourage teachers not to focus on Christmas or Santa, the children are often hyper-focused on the holidays that they celebrate. Students everywhere tend to check out a bit as the winter break draws near and they crave classroom activities they perceive as being "fun" as opposed to the typical routines. Teachers are busier than ever and need to keep the students learning and engaged. A holidays around the world unit is the ideal solution because it allows you to integrate reading and writing skill practice with so many other learning opportunities ... all while your students enjoy what they think are fun, seasonal activities.

Many teachers think a holidays around the world unit will be expensive, messy, chaotic and require a lot of planning and prepping. I have good news! That doesn't need to be the case at all.

This blog post will...

What is a Holidays Around the World Unit?

A holidays around the world unit is a study of how different countries and cultures celebrate different holidays.

Why is a Holidays around the World Unit Important?

A holidays around the world unit is important at the elementary level because it exposes students to a variety of cultures and traditions in other countries (as well as their own). The experiences help them identify the similarities and differences, so they can grow a deeper level of appreciation and respect for others.

5 Steps for Planning a Holidays Around the World Unit

Below are 5 steps for planning a holidays around the world unit in your classroom.

Step 1: Pick the Countries and Holidays You Wish to Include

There are so many interesting ones to choose from. Some years I include more than others depending on when the winter break begins. Here is the list of the ones I included in the resource I created to get you started.

Countries

Holidays

Step 2: Gather Your Resources

Some teachers avoid taking on a holidays around the world unit because they worry that it will be expensive to buy all of the necessary resources to teach the students about the different holidays. This doesn't need to be an obstacle.

The resource I created includes printable close reading activities chock full of information. They can be assembled into a book for students or used one at a time. You can enhance your unit with more great resources for free.

Take a look at this holidays around the world book list for titles of read alouds you may want to use. You'll find many of those books at your local library as well as by searching online for videos of them being read aloud.

Check out these holidays around the world videos that include a great collection of the holiday storytellers I curated after a recent trip to Disney World. They are the perfect complement to your unit and your students will learn so much from them.

Consider scooping up this holidays around the world unit, which has been jam-packed with a collection of activities. The packet as a whole is perfect for grades 2-5 and the majority of it is also great for first graders as well. Younger learners will especially love the passports and stamps, luggage craft, postcards, journal, travel scrapbook and Venn diagrams. Older learners will not only enjoy those but will also feel great pride completing research organizers and writing reports and presenting information. Take a look at all that is included!

This holidays around the world resource includes:

resource overview that identifies all of the printables included in the product

teaching ideas that offer suggestions for how to implement the resources in your classroom

organizational tools to help you keep track of the resources you add to this thematic unit

book suggestions to help you find relevant read alouds you might like to use as part of your unit

close reading passage for both teachers and students to learn more about the holiday

printable book for students to use to learn about the holiday

two-column notes graphic organizer so your students can organize their ideas and the research they collect

top-down web graphic organizer so your students can take the information they collected and transfer it into a paragraph framework

cover pages that students can color in or design their own illustration

geography map to help students make sense of where the country is in relation to themselves

flag bunting that looks great displayed on a bulletin board

flag coloring page that pairs well with the writing project and makes a great bulletin board

postcards so students can show what they learned in a fun and creative way

travel scrapbook so students can show what they learned in a fun and creative way

travel journal so students can show what they learned in a fun and creative way

art project to engage your students in a fun learning experience based on an academic topic

recipe for students to bring home, share with their families, and enjoy a hands-on learning extension

digital version of the product so students can access the materials in school and at home

And also these bonus materials:

access to a digital portal for easy planning

passports and country stamps

luggage craft activity

boarding passes

travel map

compare and contrast countries with Venn diagrams

craft ideas

scrapbook cover

recipes

These printable and digital holidays around the world activities are a great way to engage your learners in fun, timely learning experiences where they practice literacy skills and broaden their understanding of the diverse cultures and traditions around the world.

Step 3: Determine How You Will Implement the Unit

One of my favorite ways to bring the unit to life is to team up with colleagues. This lightens your workload during a busy time of year when your plate is extra full. Have each person take responsibility for a different holiday and rotate your students "Around the World." Consider working with teachers in other grade levels and mixing your students up into groups.

Another option is to set up research centers for independent or small group learning. Designate an area for each country or holiday and stock it with resources, printable activities, and art supplies. Let your students travel around the room to complete the activities.

Some teachers prefer to use whole group lessons. Gather the students together for read alouds, videos, discussions, and instructions. Then, have them use that information to make scrapbooks or write about what they've learned as a follow-up activity.

Step 4: Choose the Holidays Around the World Activities You Want the Students to Do

You can do as many or as few holidays around the world activities you want. Here is what worked well for me over the years.

I always start with a quick map skills lesson. This elementary map skills blog post may be helpful. I introduce the countries we'll be "visiting" and we find them on the map.

To keep all of the materials organized throughout the unit, we make "suitcases" which become learning portfolios. The kids love decorating them and the parents always rave about what a nice keepsake they are when they get sent home.

Next, I give each student a passport and explain how they will be filling them with stamps as we learn about the winter holidays celebrated by other cultures. Then it is time to begin our study of Holidays Around the World.

For each holiday, the students complete a graphic organizer noting the traditions, clothing, foods, and activities associated with the holiday. Using this format allows them to see the similarities between cultures as well as the things that are unique to each. They fill in the organizers as they gather info when watching videos, listening to stories and reading the close reading passages They then use the organizers to write in their travel journals and create a scrapbook page.

My favorite activity is the scrapbook. The open-ended aspect makes it perfect for all ability levels. I've had the students add drawings, images, words, etc. They really get creative and showcase all they've learned. They start each one after we have learned about the holiday through books, videos, and storytelling and add to them as an independent project as time allows.

Finally, I have them create a postcard for each of the countries we visit. Some years I do this in conjunction with the travel journal and other years I've done it in place of the journal. They write a brief note filled with facts to a family member and then decorate the front to show what they've learned in pictures. These make a great informal assessment of their learning.

Step 5: Enlist the Help of Others

Consider collaborating with your art, PE and/or music teacher to turn this into a truly interdisciplinary unit. Your colleagues in those specialist areas could work on cultural crafts, games, and music during their classes to complement the work you are doing in the classroom.

No doubt this is a busy time of year. Save yourself time by asking parent volunteers to help with this unit. They can gather resources for you, come in to read stories aloud, share their family traditions, prep materials at home or just lend an extra set of hands in the classroom. To save even more time, I encourage you to download the Holidays Around the World Resources I've already made for you.

Other Holidays Around the World Blog Posts

Other Related Blog Posts

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Holidays Around the World Activities, Lesson Plans, Crafts and More for 2022

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Holidays around the world activities are perfect for the month of December. While many schools encourage teachers not to focus on Christmas or Santa, the children are often hyper-focused on the holidays that they celebrate. Students everywhere tend to check out a bit as the winter break draws near and they crave classroom activities they perceive as being "fun" as opposed to the typical routines.

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Integrated Lesson Plans and Art Projects

Before I start our 12 Days until Christmas in the Classroom Countdown, I love to teach about Winter Holidays around the world. Every year this is always one of my class' favorite lessons! My class really enjoys learning about new holidays and how they are celebrated around the world.

Each year, I teach my class about five Winter Holidays with this fun and engaging unit. I love starting with Diwali because it is celebrated before the other holidays in the unit and is a holiday that most of my students haven't heard of before.

Lesson outline- teaching holidays around the world

I start the lesson by asking my students what they know and what they want to know about Diwali. We record their thinking on a KWL chart. Then I continue the lesson by projecting and reading aloud a text about Diwali. There are not many kid-friendly texts about Diwali so I wrote one that was appropriate for my students.

After reading the text to them, we dive into the information about Diwali. I wrote text dependent questions that go right along with the text. The students revisit the text as they answer and solidify new information about Diwali. Afterward, I model how to jot down notes from the text and then my students jot down their own notes.

To learn even more information about Diwali we watch this short video from National Geographic. My students love seeing what they just read about in real life. Their fascination with the festival of lights grows as we watch this clip. During the video, I allow them to jot down any new information they learned on their note sheets.

Then we use the notes to write a facts and draw a picture about Diwali. I model how to use my notes to help write three facts. Once they finish, I have them find a partner to share their writing with. I usually keep their writing from each day so they can be stapled together and sent home all at once. I tell the students they can go home and teach their families about each holiday using their own writing. They get very excited about this.

We can't learn about these holidays without creating an art piece to compliment the writing. For Diwali, students make a paper rangoli. They can make any design using the pre-cut (or ripped) squares. My students always wish they could make one out of colored rice, but I am just not that brave!

The topic of winter holidays really caught my students' attention!

They were engaged all throughout the lesson and were highly motivated to write about it. The best part was- by following this lesson outline, the students submitted some really well-written paragraphs with new vocabulary words.

Don't miss out on the chance for students to gain a deeper understanding of cultures and holiday traditions around the world! Here are images from the other four holidays I each about for this unit. They are all included in our Holidays Around the World Lesson Plans for grades 1-3.

Holidays Around the World for Grades 4, 5 and 6!

My first graders loved the 1-3 pack so much we decided to make Winter Holidays Around the World Lesson Plans available for grades 4-6. Of course, we changed up the lesson structure for our older kiddos. In this upper grade pack, students become familiar with five Winter Holidays by reading the student texts (which are included) for each holiday.

Students research one of the winter holidays in an "expert group," take notes, answer text dependent questions, and create a group holiday poster to share their information with the class. Groups use a poster presentation rubric as a reference while they are creating their poster and planning their presentation.

During the expert group presentations, classmates take notes to become familiar with all five holidays. Classmates in the audience write at least one fact for every holiday presented. Afterward, students are excited to create five amazing art projects related to each holiday. Here are the other four holidays that are included in this resource pack.
Our 1st-3rd grade holidays around the world unit includes:
Full lesson plans
5 Texts, one for each holiday
Text Dependent Question Cards
Multiple Note-taking sheet options
Multiple Writing sheet options
Art Project lesson plans and examples for each holiday
Our 4-6 Winter Holidays Unit includes:
Full Lesson Plans
5 Student Texts, one for each holiday
Text Dependent Question Cards
Note-Catchers for each holiday
Poster Photo Picture Cards
Poster Presentation Rubric
Art Project lesson plans and examples for each holiday

Students will become experts on Christmas, Diwali, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, and Las Posadas after studying each holiday.

Through reading, note taking, oral presentations, art projects, and writing- students learn about Christmas, Diwali, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, and Las Posadas.

Are you wondering how you're ever going to find time during the crazy month of December to plan lessons about 5 different winter holidays? Don't worry! We've done all the work for you! Click on the images below to purchase Winter Holidays Around the World for grades 1-3 or Winter Holidays Around the World for grades 4-6.

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Winter Holidays Around the World Research - The Core Coaches

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Before I start our 12 Days until Christmas in the Classroom Countdown, I love to teach about Winter Holidays around the world. Every year this is always one of my class' favorite lessons! My class really enjoys learning about new holidays and how they are celebrated around the world.

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December is a great time of year for celebrating and learning about holidays around the world for kids. Elementary students can learn about how different countries celebrate Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, Diwali, Las Posadas, Three Kings Day, St. Lucia Day, Epiphany, and Chinese New Year using these lists of holidays around the world books.

You may also find this comprehensive holidays around the world unit to be helpful! It is packed with holidays around the world activities, holiday lesson plans, festive holiday crafts from around the world, and more! In addition to exploring all of the holidays celebrated this time of year, it does a deep dive into Christmas around the world for kids. It's a great way to celebrate a festive time of year without focusing on one or two popular holidays and by using activities that are meaningful and academic. Learn more about these quality picture books for teaching holidays around the world for kids below!

Holidays Around the World Books

Using holidays around the world books as read alouds will equip you to share multicultural celebrations and diverse traditions with your students. This book list includes quality picture books that show diversity, cultures, and winter holidays in the global world.

The list below goes beyond "Christmas Around the World" to include:

Use the time-saving book list below to decide which titles are a good match for your students. Clicking on any of the covers will take you to full descriptions and summaries as well as reader reviews via an Amazon affiliate link. While you may want to build up your personal collection of books by purchasing them you could also use the list to request copies from your local library or even search online for video of the books being read aloud at no cost.

Below are some of my favorite holidays around the world books to share with elementary students!

Chinese New Year Books

You can't have a list of holidays around the world books without mentioning Chinese New Year! Check out the list of books below!

Ruby's Wish by Shirin Yim Bridges

The story Ruby's Wish takes place in China a long time ago. Ruby lived in a big house with her wealthy grandfather. He had many wives and therefore had many grandchildren. Unlike other girls in China, Ruby was able to take classes because her grandfather had hired a teacher to come to the house. Ruby was always an impressive student, and even continued with her classes when the other girls stopped going. It was not easy for her to keep up with the boys because she had household duties after school, while the boys were able to play.

One day, Ruby wrote a poem about how the boys in the house are treated differently. Ruby's grandfather was concerned and asked her to explain the poem to him. He learned that Ruby wanted to go to university just like the boys. Later, on Chinese New Year, Ruby's grandfather handed her a large envelope. Inside was an invitation from a university inviting Ruby to be their first female student. Ruby's dream of attending university finally came true! I liked this book so much I added it to my Starts With a Story collection!

Other Chinese New Year Books

Christmas Books

These Christmas read alouds are great holidays around the world books because they highlight how Christmas is celebrated in Australia, Germany, Sweden, and France. See the full list of book below!

Christmas Wombat by Jackie French

The book,Christmas Wombat, is a short and funny Australian story told from the perspective of a wombat. In the book, the wombat is describing his day, almost like a journal. He comes across some carrots and excitedly eats them. However, there are some strange creatures, Santa's reindeer, eating his carrots! The wombat continues to follow Santa and the reindeer, eating all of the reindeer's carrots. He has never seen so many carrots in his life! By the time he returns home is he too full to eat the delicious grass he sees. Students will love this funny story about a wombat that thinks the reindeer's carrots are for him!

Other Australian Christmas Stories

Cobweb Christmas by Shirley Climo

Cobweb Christmasis a German folktale that explains why people decorate their Christmas tree with t insel. It tells the story of an old woman fondly called Tante by those in her village. Each year, Tante gets her home ready for Christmas by cleaning and going out to get a Christmas tree. Tante would make her own decorations for the tree, covering it in treats for the animals. Once everything was ready, she would share her tree with the children and animals. When Tante finally fell asleep, Christkindel was off delivering presents. He saw hundreds of spiders outside Tante's house, hoping to view the tree.

Christkindel let them in and discovered they'd woven webs all over the tree. Not wanting to upset Tante, he turned the webs into tinsel. Tante was awoke to the marvelous tree and continued to decorate her tree that way year after year.

Other German Christmas Books

The Tomten by Astrid Lindgren

by Astrid Lindgren tells the Scandinavian story of a gnome. In this book, the Tomten lives on an old farm and visits the people and animals during the night. While humans have never seen him, they know he is there because of his little footprints in the snow. It takes place during the long, frigid winter while everyone is wishing for spring. As the Tomten visits the cows, sheep, dogs, and children, he offers words of hope and reminds them to be grateful. He speaks his own, silent language that the animals can understand. Students will enjoy listening to this sweet folktale from another country.

Other Swedish Books

Madeline's Christmas by Ludwig Bemelmans

Madeline's Christmas is a story about a little girl named Madeline who embarks on an adventure. It's the night before Christmas and everyone is sick in bed except for Madeline. She is taking care of the other eleven little girls and Miss Clavel. It's a lot of hard work! When Madeline finds help from a magical merchant, the girls go on a Christmas journey.

Other French Christmas Books

Hanukkah Books

These Hanukkah books are great holidays around the world books to share with elementary students. Check out the full list below!

Latke, The Lucky Dog by Ellen Fischer

Latke, The Lucky Dog is a story about how Zoe and Zach got to pick out a dog as a Hanukkah present. They chose a medium, playful dog and named him Latke. When Latke makes it home, he is very excited about his new house. He thinks he is so lucky to live with Zoe and Zach. When Latke sees treats on the table, he thinks he can eat them because it is his home. Latke is curious about candles so he chews them. He keeps chewing and slobbering on things and his family starts to get angry and upset. Latke worries that his family will bring him back to the shelter.

Eventually, Latke learned that he should only be eating his food, and his family gave him a chew toy as a Hanukkah gift. Students will love this story about a puppy adjusting to his new home. This book is a great way to teach students about Hanukkah traditions.

Other Hanukkah Books

Kwanzaa Books

You can't forget about Kwanzaa when you are collecting holidays around the world books to read aloud aloud to your elementary students. Check out the full list below!

Seven Spools of Thread by Angela Shelf Medearis

The Seven Spools of Thread is a folktale that takes place in Ghana. There are seven brothers that live in a village and they argue day and night. When their father passes away, the village Chief tells them that their father has left them his inheritance. However, in order to receive it they must do two things: turn seven spools of thread into gold, and do so without arguing. The brothers return home and come up with a plan together.

Eventually, they decide to try creating something with the thread to sell in exchange for gold. The brothers create a colorful fabric, which is different than the single colored fabric in their village. A treasurer for the King gives the brothers gold for the fabric and they earn the inheritance. The brothers show compassion to their village by teaching others to turn thread into gold. The seven threads in this story symbolize the seven principles of Kwanzaa.

Other Kwanzaa Books

Epiphany Books

Epiphany often gets overlooked when elementary teachers are looking for holidays around the world books. Check out the three quality books below for celebrating this festive holiday!

Las Posadas Books

Las Posadas is another holiday that often gets overlooked when teachers are looking for holidays around the world books. Check out the list of books below!

Holidays around the world is an extremely popular unit in elementary schools and homeschool classrooms throughout the month of December. If you are teaching a holidays around the world unit, check out these 5 simple steps for teaching holidays around the world. It also showcases a comprehensive, jam-packed resource I created that includes all of the holidays around the world activities that I've used over the years.

These holidays around the world books serve as great read alouds for the month of December. Your elementary students will love learning about these different holidays and making connections between the stories and their own experiences. If you are looking for book lessons and activities, check out the resources below!

Grab the Free Book Lists!

Download the free book lists by clicking the image below.

If you liked this post about holidays around the world books, you may also find these posts helpful:

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Holidays Around the World Books for Kids

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December is a great time of year for celebrating and learning about holidays around the world for kids. Elementary students can learn about how different countries celebrate Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, Diwali, Las Posadas, Three Kings Day, St. Lucia Day, Epiphany, and Chinese New Year using these lists of holidays around the world books.

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Teaching our little learners about the holidays around the world with this polar express unit is such a fun unit to explore! There are so many other holidays out there that we know nothing about. With this unit, we get to explore all the holidays out there in such fun and exciting ways. We get to watch them explore and learn new things about the holidays around the world! It's even more fun as you read through holidays around the world books related to this polar express unit.

Finding holidays around the world books to read with them is a fun addition to the polar express unit and they get to see all the different holidays out there!

Sitting down to read about the holidays around the world is so important as they explore this fun polar express unit! They'll discover all kinds of new things about the holidays around the world! Some they'll recognize like Christmas, others will be totally new to them like Ramadan and leave them in total awe!

I've come across some really interesting holidays around the world books for you to use with this polar express unit that can easily be purchased on Amazon. Click the links below and stock up on some of your favorites! I love using my prime membership to get them sent to me quickly with FREE 2-day shipping.

A young boy, lying awake one Christmas Eve, is welcomed aboard a magical trip to the North Pole . . . Through dark forests, over tall mountains, and across a desert of ice, the Polar Express makes its way to the city atop the world, where the boy will make his Christmas wish. For millions of readers worldwide, this mysterious journey to the North Pole has become a beloved classic.

Christmas is coming! Carter and Grandma shop for gifts, visit Santa, pick out a tree, and decorate cookies. On Christmas Eve, they go to church. Then they open presents and share a big meal with family on Christmas Day. Find out how people celebrate this special time of year!

A classic bestseller presented in a new size with fresh, bright illustrations. Here is the story of the Nativity told in 200 words that are simple enough for a toddler to understand. From the Annunciation by the angel through Jesus's birth, the angels' appearance to the shepherds, and the journey of the wise men, the Christmas story is presented in its most traditional form. Vibrant new illustrations are paired with classic text to bridge the connection between the biblical story of Jesus's birth and today's Christmas celebration. This book is unsurpassed as an introduction to the significance of the Christmas holiday.

Since it was first published anonymously in 1823, "The Night Before Christmas" has enchanted children with the story of St. Nicholas climbing down the chimney and filling all the stockings before springing back to his sleigh. Many families read the poem every year, and now they have an edition to treasure. The cherished verse, faithfully reproduced here, is accompanied by Charles Santore's lavish illustrations.

Caleb is excited to spin the dreidel! His family is celebrating Hanukkah. For eight days, they light candles on the menorah. They eat latkes and open presents. And of course, they play the dreidel game! Find out the different ways people celebrate this Jewish holiday.

No celebration of Hanukkah would be complete without recountng the events of more than two thousand years ago that the holiday commemorates. In a simple yet dramatic text and vibrant paintings, the story of the courageous Maccabees and the miracle that took place in the Temple in Jerusalem is retold. For readers who want to continue the festivities, a recipe for latkes and directions for playing dreidel are included.

Rescued from an animal shelter on the first night of Hanukkah, Latke has trouble learning the house rules. Despite a series of mishaps, he is one Lucky Dog!

A bear wakes to a wonderful smell that leads him to the house of Bubba Brayna. Bubba Brayna makes the best latkes in the village, but at ninety-seven, she doesn't hear or see well. When the bear arrives at her door, she believes he is her rabbi. Bubba Brayna and the bear light the menorah, play the dreidel game, and eat all the latkes. The mix-up is revealed, Bubba Brayna has a laugh about it, and everyone works together to make more latkes.

For Muslims, Ramadan is a time for fasting, prayer, and thinking of others. Rashad tries to be good all month. When it's time for Eid al-Fitr, he feasts and plays! Find out how people celebrate this special time of year.

We wait for the moon, we watch for the moon and we watch for the Ramadan moon. Next, we give to the poor, and read Qur_an, under the moon. As a family, we live our faith, until next year under the moon, under the moon, under the Ramadan moon. Ramadan is one of the most special months of the Islamic year, when Muslims pray, fast, and help those in need. Sylvia Whitman's lyrical story, with luminous illustrations by Sue Williams, serves as an introduction to Ramadan, a time for reflection and ritual with family and friends. A detailed note about Ramadan is included.

Lailah is in a new school in a new country, thousands of miles from her old home, and missing her old friends. When Ramadan begins, she is excited that she is finally old enough to participate in the fasting but worried that her classmates won't understand why she doesn't join them in the lunchroom. Lailah solves her problem with help from the school librarian and her teacher and in doing so learns that she can make new friends who respect her beliefs. This gentle, moving story from first-time author Reem Faruqi comes to life in Lea Lyon's vibrant illustrations. Lyon uses decorative arabesque borders on intermittent spreads to contrast the ordered patterns of Islamic observances with the unbounded rhythms of American school days.

Follow the story of Laila, a curious young Muslim girl that wants to learn about Ramadan. Through a fun story for both children and parents, allow your kids to start comprehending religious concepts while also sparking their curiosity for further knowledge about their Islamic religion. Enjoy with your little one a unique and creative journey that will introduce her/him to one of the five pillars of the religion and offer your child a positive perception of the Islamic holy month of mercy, the Ramadan. A must-have children's story that shouldn't be missing from any family's bookcase or Islamic books' collection!

Kevin's family is celebrating the seven days of Kwanzaa! They light candles and learn a special word each day. They talk about working together. On the sixth day, everyone dances at a big feast! Find out the different ways people celebrate this holiday.

Kwanzaa is Kayla's favorite time of year. But this year, it looks as if a heavy snowstorm will keep her big brother, Khari, from getting home in time for the festivities! Will Khari miss the celebration completely? Or will Kayla and her brother somehow find a way to be together for Kwanzaa? A perfect introduction to Kwanzaa, this book will teach children all about the traditions and practices that make it a special winter holiday.

Li'l Rabbit is not having a very good Kwanzaa. Granna Rabbit is sick, and so his family won't celebrate his favorite part of Kwanzaa this year: a big feast called Karamu. Li'l Rabbit knows what to do! He'll find Granna Rabbit a special treat for Karamu so she can celebrate anyway. He looks under a pile of logs, in the field, and in the pond and along the way meets Groundhog, Momma Field Mouse, and the frogs-but he doesn't find anything for Granna Rabbit. Maybe I'm just too little to help Granna Rabbit celebrate Kwanzaa, Li'l Rabbit thinks. Or maybe he just needs a little help from his family and friends. Inspired by Brer Rabbit, a trickster character from the African-American folklore tradition, the story of Li'l Rabbit captures the true meaning of Kwanzaa-coming together to help others.

In an African village live seven brothers who make life miserable with their constant fighting. When their father dies, he leaves an unusual will: by sundown, the brothers must make gold out of seven spools of thread or they will be turned out as beggars.

Chelsea's family is celebrating Chinese New Year! Chelsea gets to stay up late. She watches fireworks and a parade with a dragon! She and her family have a big feast. Find out the different ways people celebrate this special day!

Ruby has a special card to give to her grandmother for Chinese New Year. But who will help her get to grandmother's house to deliver it? Will it be clever Rat, strong Ox, or cautious Rabbit? Ruby meets each of the twelve zodiac animals on her journey. This picture book includes back matter with a focus on the animals of the Chinese zodiac.

It's Chinese New Year and there are so many fun things to do! Shopping at the outdoor market for fresh flowers, eating New Year's dinner with the whole family, receiving red envelopes from Grandma and Grandpa, and best of all-watching the spectacular Chinese New Year's parade! Introduce the customs of Chinese New Year to even the youngest readers with this festive new lift-the-flap book.

Why do dragons dance during Chinese New Year? Allow your children to find the right answers on their own with the help of this very informative book. The great thing about this book is that it's been specifically designed for children. Therefore, you can see colors, pictures and as few texts as possible. This formula is surefire way of boosting the interest for knowledge.

Teaching the polar express unit is so much for our little learners as they explore holidays around the world they may not be familiar with. It's fun for us too as we watch them learn and grow! Grab some fun holidays around the world books and this polar express unit and explore all the different holidays around the world!

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20 Holidays Around the World Books - Mrs. Jones Creation Station

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Teaching our little learners about the holidays around the world with this polar express unit is such a fun unit to explore! There are so many other holidays out there that we know nothing about. With this unit, we get to explore all the holidays out there in such fun and exciting ways.

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View the Christmas collection on Epic plus over 40,000 of the best books & videos for kids.

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Children of all ages will delight in this ultimate collection of Christmas books. Cinnamon and evergreen spices waif through the house and little ones are snuggled up next to the tree reading books of Christmas.
Disclosure: Affiliate links are included to Amazon in this post.
Selecting the best Christmas book for your child.

I know they say, "Don't judge a book by its cover," but I challenge you to do just that. Think about the stories you want to share with your child. Do you want a tale from another land? Are you looking for an outdoor, natural Christmas tale? or Are you drawn to the fun whimsical drawings?

Try to choose a variety of artistic styles. I lean towards the natural feel, but my son loves the whimsical illustrations.

Even the youngest babies will enjoy snuggling on a loved one's lap this holiday season. Select a sturdy board book they can gnaw and hold without worrying about damaging the pages.

Toddlers will love the lift-the-flap books and interactive stories as well.

Storing Christmas Books:

We like to store our seasonal books with decorations. This, however, does not work with Christmas books as we have so many (3 large bags full). Instead, I have a designated space in one of our closets for our Christmas book bags. We like to bring them out the day after Thanksgiving. It is a wonderful treat as the children will sit and read these for hours.

You may also want to consider a Christmas book basket.

Using Christmas Books

Admittedly, the holiday season is busy. Between class and work parties, visits to Santa and trips to the store, it is easy to get caught up in the hustle and bustle of Christmas.

Making time to slow down and read out loud to my children really helps us make meaningful connections every day in December. Children need these connections with family. It will help them better cope with the stresses of the season.

Set time aside for reading every day with your child.

Make it special with reading extras like hot cocoa and a roaring fire.

Wrap and give a book for every day of December. Use this as a countdown to Christmas.

Donate holiday books to a local school or charity in need.

Christmas Books for Kids

Click on the image or the title for a longer description of the book.

1. The Polar Express

2. Merry Christmas, Mr. Mouse

3. The Littlest Elf

4. The Littlest Christmas Tree

5. Tree of Cranes

6. A Pirate's Night Before Christmas

7. 'Twas Nochebuena

8. Snowmen at Christmas

9. Mooseltoe

10. Olive, the Other Reindeer

11. Christmas Cookies: Bite-Size Holiday Lessons

12. The Miracle of the First Poinsettia: A Mexican Christmas Story

13. Gingerbread Mouse

14. Grace at Christmas

15. Pocket's Christmas Wish

16. A Magical Christmas

17. Charlie and the Christmas Kitty (Charlie the Ranch Dog)

18. The Twelve Days of Christmas

19. Pablo's Christmas

20. A Night in Santa's Great Big Bag

21. Yoon and the Christmas Mitten

22. Goodnight Santa: The Perfect Bedtime Book (Goodnight Series)

23. Five Busy Elves

24. A Piñata in a Pine Tree: A Latino Twelve Days of Christmas

25. A Very Merry Christmas

26. Christmas Mice! (Green Light Readers Level 1)

27. Everett Anderson's Christmas Coming

28. The Christmas Quiet Book

29. How the Grinch Stole Christmas! (Classic Seuss)

30. Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer

31. The Christmas Owl: Based on the True Story of a Li ttle Owl Named Rockefeller

32. How to Catch an Elf

33. The Tree That's Meant to Be

34. All the Colors of Christmas

35. Under the Christmas Tree

36. 12 Days of Christmas (The Christmas Choir)

37. The Jolly Christmas Postman

38. The Nutcracker

39. Jan Brett's The Nutcracker

40. How to Catch Santa

41. How Winston Delivered Christmas

42. Mr. Willowby's Christmas Tree

Woodland / Natural Christmas Books

53. Donkey's Christmas Song

56. Christmas Day in the Morning

57. The Message of the Birds

58. The Christmas Miracle of Jonathan Toomey

59. The Carpenter's Gift: A Christmas Tale about the Rockefeller Center Tree
60. Pick a Pine Tree
61. Christmas Farm
62. A Simple Christmas on the Farm
63. Dasher: How a Brave Little Doe Changed Christmas Forever
64. Little Red Sleigh

Christmas Books with Your Favorite Characters

65. Merry Christmas, Mouse! (If You Give...)

66. Llama Llama Jingle Bells

67. The Biggest Christmas Tree Ever
68. Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer (Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer) (Little Golden Book)
69. Frosty the Snowman (Frosty the Snowman) (Little Golden Book)

70. Merry Christmas Mom and Dad (A Golden Look-Look Book)
71. Tractor Mac Saves Christmas

72. An Otis Christma
73. Little Blue Truck's Christmas
74. Clifford's Christmas

75. Biscuit's Pet & Play Christmas
76. Bear Stays Up for Christmas (The Bear Books)
77. Click, Clack, Ho! Ho! Ho!
78. Frozen Olaf's Night Before Christmas Book & CD
79. Disney Christmas Storybook Collection
80. The Not Very Merry Pout-Pout Fish (A Pout-Pout Fish Adventure)
81. Doc McStuffins A Very McStuffins Christmas
82. The Very Snowy Christmas
83 It's Christmas, David
84. Here Comes Santa's Cat
85. The Crayons Christmas
86. Construction Site on Christmas Night

Religious Christmas Books

87. The Christmas Story
88. The Animals' Christmas Eve (Little Golden Book)
89. God Gave Us Christmas
90. Room for a Little One: A Christmas Tale
91. God Bless Our Christmas

93. The Parable Series: The Pine Tree Parable

94. This Is the Stable
95. Who Is Coming to Our House? (Board Book)
96. The Animals Speak: A Christmas Eve Legend
97. Silent Night (The Christmas Choir)
98. Mortimer's Christmas Manger
99. The Story of Christmas
100. Christmas in the Manger
We made it to 100 Christmas Books every child should read before they turn 10!
Christmas Board Books for Babies and Toddlers

Our Readers Favorite Christmas Books for Kids

Edited - Our online friends have chimed in that some of their favorites were missing! If we left out yours feel free to comment on the post below to let us know what YOUR favorite Christmas books are!!!!

Downloadable Christmas Book List

If you'd like, you can print out this Christmas book list and keep it handy on your visit to the library or perhaps as a gift guide as you're buying gifts this Christmas. Books make the best gifts that last for years and years reading together.

Christmas Book Activity Extension Ideas
Did you enjoy this list of 100 Christmas Books Every Child Should Read Before they Turn 10?
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PIN IT to your holiday, Christmas, books, or reading Pinterest boards!

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100 Christmas Books Every Child Should Read Before They Turn 10

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Children of all ages will delight in this ultimate collection of Christmas books. Cinnamon and evergreen spices waif through the house and little ones are snuggled up next to the tree reading books of Christmas. Disclosure: Affiliate links are included to Amazon in this post.

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The Fourth of July is just around the corner and on the actual day, reading patriotic books with my kids is probably not on my agenda.

But the weeks leading up to the holiday are the perfect time for checking out some 4th of July books for kids and helping them understand the significance of Independence Day.

I love a good BBQ or setting off fireworks as much as the next person on the Fourth of July with my kids, but I want to make sure they also understand what we're celebrating with all those hamburgers and sparklers, and these Fourth of July books for kids are a great lead-in to those conversations.

Alternatively, these are great patriotic books for other days of remembrance like Memorial Day or 9/11 or Veteran's Day or President's Day.

Patriotic Books for Children

1. Those Rebels, John and Tom by Barbara Kerley, illustrated by Edwin Fotheringham. This is probably my favorite of all the books this duo has written together. This book points out the (many) differences between two famous founding Fathers, John Adams and Thomas Jefferson. They certainly had a relationship with a lot of friction, but impressively, they were both willing to put aside their personal feelings to work toward a common goal and build a new nation built on their shared ideals of liberty. Plus, it's an easy way to bring up sibling relationships that might need a little redirecting away from rivalry and toward shared goals.

2. Blue Sky White Stars by Sarvinder Naberhaus, illustrated by Kadir Nelson. This book has very little text and showcases images that represent America, from the Statue of Liberty to the Grand Canyon, from a NASA blast-off to Civil Rights marchers. It's a great conversation starter with children, and I am obsessed with Kadir Nelson's illustrations - his art is just off-the-charts amazing.

3. So You Want to Be President by Judith St. George, illustrated by David Small - This Caldecott winner is one of my favorites. It's definitely on the longer side for a picture book, but it's packed with interesting info and really funny.

4. by Henry Wadsworth Longfellow, illustrated by Ted Rand. Back in elementary school, I memorized this whole poem and I've loved it ever since. Even if the poem isn't totally historically accurate, it's a patriotic classic. Bonus points if you act it out!

5. Her Right Foot by Dave Eggers, illustrated by Shawn Harris. This non-fiction book garnered approximately forty million awards when it came out a couple of years ago and for good reason. This look at the Statue of Liberty and what she represents with her right foot walking forward is so touching. You can watch a little book trailer here to get a feel for it.

6. by Lane Smith. I LOVE Lane Smith and his wacky brand of humor, and this book made Bart and I both cry with laughter when we picked it up in a bookstore in New York City years ago. It still does!

7. A is for Abigail: An Almanac of Amazing American Women by Lynne Cheney, illustrated by Robin Preiss Glasser. This almanac showcases hundreds of American women, ranging from super famous to ones you've never heard of, but all of whom made a difference in American history.

8. George vs. George: The American Revolution As Seen from Both Sides by Rosalyn Schanzer. This book, which is aimed at older elementary school readers, does an impressive job looking at both sides of the Revolutionary War as well as the famous people involved in it. The illustrations are fun too, which makes it perfect for a summer afternoon.

9. You Wouldn't Want to Be at the Boston Tea Party!: Wharf Water Tea You'd Rather Not Drink by Peter Cook, David Antram and David Salariya - This whole series is wildly popular (when I was a librarian, I couldn't keep them on the shelves), and this one is perfect for understanding the seeds of the American Revolution.

10. Independent Dames: What You Never Knew About the Women and Girls of the American Revolution Laurie Halse Anderson, illustrated by Matt Faulkner. I love Laurie Halse Anderson's fantastic historical picture books and this one is no exception.

And if you'd like a printable copy of this list that you can take to your library or screenshot on your phone for easy access, just pop in your email address below and it'll come right to your inbox!

Reader Interactions

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10 Patriotic Books: The Best 4th of July Books for Kids

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The Fourth of July is just around the corner and on the actual day, reading patriotic books with my kids is probably not on my agenda. But the weeks leading up to the holiday are the perfect time for checking out some 4th of July books for kids and helping them understand the significance of Independence Day.

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US History Lesson Plans Resources | PBS LearningMedia

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Find supplementary resources for US History lesson plans. Motivate your students with videos and games aligned to state and national standards.

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Best U.S. History Websites for Students | Common Sense Education

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Web-based resources with in-depth info on U.S. history. Explore this Best U.S. History Websites for Students Top Picks list of 27 tools curated by Common Sense Education editors to find relevant and engaging edtech solutions for your classroom.

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kayak: canada’s history magazine for kids

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FREE award-winning lesson plans, classroom activities and resources for homeschoolers and teachers K-12.

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Here at Facing History, we see heritage and awareness months as opportunities to deepen our knowledge of and attention to the histories and contemporary experiences of historically marginalized communities. However, the focus on celebrating these communities over one particular month can further marginalize the very experiences we are hoping to elevate. With this in mind, what follows is an invitation to engage with important themes raised by Native American Heritage Month this November and throughout all of the months of the year.
Below are 20 resources that middle and high school teachers can turn to when developing lesson plans related to the roles of Native American peoples in American history and contemporary life. These resources include online exhibitions at the Smithsonian; the Smithsonian's Native Knowledge 360° Educational Initiative; the work of the Mitchell and Hood Museums; and the growing work of Facing History in these thematic areas.
Smithsonian National Museum of the American Indian
Native Knowledge 360° Education Initiative Native Knowledge 360° (NK360°) provides educators and students with new perspectives on Native American history and cultures. NK360° provides "educational materials, virtual student programs, and teacher training that incorporate Native narratives, more comprehensive histories, and accurate information to enlighten and inform teaching and learning about Native America."

Offerings include "Nation to Nation: Treaties Between the United States and American Indian Nations," "HIDE: Skin as Material and Metaphor," and "Why We Serve: Native Americans in the United States Armed Forces." Online Exhibitions

Mitchell Museum of the American Indian ​​ The Mitchell Museum of the American Indian is "one of only a handful of museums across the country that focuses exclusively on the art, history, and culture of Native American and First Nations peoples from throughout the United States and Canada."

portal to help educators and students explore the Hood Museum of Art's collection of Native American art. It features over 100 objects grouped thematically from four regions of North America. Hood Museum The Hood Museum offers a Native America Collection as well as a Native American Art Teacher Resources

Facing History Facing History is engaged in deepening its knowledge and resources on the experiences of Native American people in history and contemporary life. Below are some of our current resources that teachers can share with their students or use to enhance their own learning journey today:

5 New YA Books on Native American Lives Written by a group of Indigenous authors across North America for readers ages 12 and up, these books address themes including Indigenous youth navigating adolescent identity, community, resistance, and imagining new futures, as well as questions that Native and non-Native young people may have about the history and contemporary experiences of Native American populations.

Indigenous Rights and the Controversy Over Hawaii's Maunakea Telescope Since mid-July 2019, Native Hawaiian protesters have been blocking the construction of the Thirty Meter Telescope (TMT) on Maunakea, the highest mountain in Hawaii. The events on Maunakea raise important questions about the US government's treatment of indigenous peoples and Native Hawaiians' claims to sovereignty. This Teaching Idea provides historical context for the protests against the Thirty Meter Telescope and helps students explore the reasons why many Native Hawaiians oppose its construction.

Disrupting Public Memory: The Story of the National Day of Mourning This essay complicates prevailing narratives about the U.S. holiday of Thanksgiving, exposing them as one-sided narratives that glorify colonization and ignore the truth of history, particularly for the Indigenous People of the United States.

Facing the Realities of Native American Women

This essay explores the alarmingly high rates of murder and kidnapping of Native American women within and beyond tribal lands and some of the work being done currently to ameliorate this pervasive problem.

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Pictured above: Black Foot, Standing Bear, Big Eagle, Sioux. Three members of the Sioux tribe pose in Indian Village, 1898.

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20 Teacher Resources on Native American History and Culture

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Below are 20 resources that middle and high school teachers can turn to when developing lesson plans related to the roles of Native American peoples in American history and contemporary life. These resources include online exhibitions at the Smithsonian; the Smithsonian's Native Knowledge 360°Educational Initiative; the work of the Mitchell and Hood Museums; and the growing work of Facing History in these thematic areas.

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Native Knowledge 360° | Smithsonian National Museum of the American Indian

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Educational resources, lesson plans, teacher training, and strategies to support positive change! Native Knowledge 360° is a national initiative to inspire and promote improved teaching and learning about Native America. #NK360

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This Teacher's Guide from the National Endowment for the Humanities will introduce you to the cultures and explore the histories of some groups within the over 5 million people who identify as American Indian in the United States, with resources designed for integration across humanities curricula and classrooms throughout the school year.

Image credit: Long Walk Home-Gallup Downtown Murals-by Richard K Yazzir, 2005.

Background image: Detail of Rabbit Hunt ca. 1940; By Pablita Velarde; Casein paint on masonite. L 37.8, W 20.5 cm; Bandelier National Monument, BAND 654

This Site Hosted by The Library of Congress | Legal | USA.gov

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National Native American Heritage Month - For Teachers

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This Teacher's Guide from the National Endowment for the Humanities will introduce you to the cultures and explore the histories of some groups within the over 5 million people who identify as American Indian in the United States, with resources designed for integration across humanities curricula and classrooms throughout the school year.

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25 Patriotic Picture Books "The Fourth of July"

There are many holidays dedicated to celebrating America's heritage. They are all routed in greatness and spirit of God and country. These holidays and celebrations would not exist on our calendar if it was not for the brave men known as our Founding Fathers, on that first July 4, 1776.

As a patriotic American it is my duty to share my love of country with as many people as possible. Today, many of us are super busy. It is my hope that this list of patriotic books will help you decide, which books you might consider sharing with your children.

The Fourth of July is America's Birthday! There are hundreds of books written about America and patriotism. These 25 books are wonderful for celebrating the Forth of July with young learners.

Hello, Fourth of July!

"In Hello, Fourth of July! join the pair as they spend the day surrounded by the red, white and blue. Along the way, take in a parade, view historical paintings and statues, hit the beach, and enjoy great food at a picnic and barbecue, topping off the day with a colorful fireworks display!"

My Fourth of July

"Picnics! Singing! It's time to celebrate the best time of the year - Fourth of July!"

Fourth of July Mice!

"Hooray! It's the Fourth of July, and the parade is ready to start! The Holiday Mice lead the way to a day full of nonstop fun, including a picnic, a baseball game, a sack race, and a splashy-sploshy dip in the stream. The best part comes at the end of the day when fireworks go BOOM! BOOM! BOOM!"

The Night Before the Fourth of July

"It's the night before the Fourth of July and all across the United States people are getting ready for hot dogs and fireworks. Decked in red, white, and blue, a family heads to a parade, hosts a backyard BBQ with friends and family, dodges an afternoon thundershower, and of course, watches a fireworks show."

Corduroy's 4th of July

"Today is the 4th of July, and Corduroy and his friends are having a fun-filled picnic. They eat tasty treats and play games in the hot summer sun. Then it's time to cool down with a dip in the pool. Next they take part in an Independence Day parade! Once it's dark outside, the friends gather to watch an amazing fireworks display."

Hooray for the Fourth of July

"In a small Vermont town a family celebrates the Fourth of July by attending a parade, having a picnic, and watching fireworks."

The Fourth of July Story

"What happened on the Fourth of July long before there were fireworks and parades? Alice Dalgliesh takes young readers back to revolutionary times, back to the colonists' desire for freedom and the creation of the Declaration of Independence."

What is the Fourth of July?

"Celebrate our nation's birthday! Learn about the 4th of July and its symbols and traditions in this fun and easy-to-read book."

Happy 4th of July, Jenny Sweeney!

"It's the 4th of July and all over town, people are getting ready. Jenny Sweeney gives her dog, Rags, a bath. All the preparations lead up to the big parade and a night of bright fireworks."

The Story of America's Birthday

"This little book presents the story of the founding of America in the Declaration of Independence and American Revolution...and today's Fourth of July festivities."

America the Beautiful

The author, "Gall pairs the beautiful lyrics with striking illustrations of notable American images such as Pike's Peak, the Tuskgee Airmen, and firefighters raising the American flag at Ground Zero."

The Story of America's Birthday

"An exuberant introduction to the wonders of our country...rowing down the Mississippi, eating pies at the Kentucky State Fair, marveling at Niagara Falls and the California sequoias, and much more."

America: A Patriotic Primer

" America: A Patriotic Primer is a succinct history of the United States, an ABC of the principles on which this country was founded, and a book for children and families to pore over, discuss, and cherish."

Red, White and Blue

"Some people call the American flag Stars and Stripes or Old Glory. But did you know that it hasn't always looked the same...you will find out all about the history of the American flag."

I Pledge Allegiance

"Chris Raschka give America's children a hand, and explain this patriotic poem once and for all. A new paperback edition offers notes and suggested activities to help parents and teachers make this book even more interesting to and fun for children."

I Pledge Allegiance

"Photographs illustrating each phrase of the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag introduce information about the scenes depicted, the origin and meaning of the pledge, national holidays when the flag should be displayed, and other details about the banner and its history.Photographs illustrating each phrase of the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag introduce information about the scenes depicted, the origin and meaning of the pledge, national holidays, and other details about the banner."

The Flag We Love

"This spirited tribute to Old Glory will inspire readers, young and old, to take a new look at the greatest emblem of the United States of America. With patriotic verse and historical facts, THE FLAG WE LOVE explores how our flag has become an enduring part of our nation's proud history and heritage."

Parade Colors

"This upbeat and cheerful celebration for baby's ﬁrst patriotic holidays introduces a variety of colors as readers encounter Uncle Sam, parade ﬂoats, and the American ﬂag."

Curious George Parade Day

"There's nothing like waiting for something special and magical to happen. Today George is waiting for a parade to start! But before it does, this little monkey manages to find-and make-plenty of mischief. When the fun gets a little out of control, George must save the parade . . . but will it mean he misses a spectacular end to the day?"

Eloise and the Big Parade

"Eloise and nanny are going to the big parade!"

God Bless Our Country

"The Bear family and their Bear Country neighbors celebrate the Fourth of July with a big parade. But not before the cubs get a lesson about the blessings of freedom for their country."

F is for Flag

" F Is for Flag shows in simple terms how one flag can mean many things: a symbol of unity, a sign of welcome, and a reminder that-in good times and in bad-everyone in our country is part of one great big family."

L is for Liberty

"For more than a century, the Statue of Liberty has stood proudly in New York Harbor, welcoming people from near and far. L Is for Liberty uses simple language and bold illustrations to celebrate the statue, her history, and the freedom she stands for."

A is for America

"Little ones will love learning American history in Tanya Lee Stone's latest alphabet book. Rhyming couplets that flow through the alphabet help kids celebrate everything from the Constitution and the Declaration of Independence to Thomas Jefferson and Harriet Tubman!"

I'm Your Flag, Please Treat Me Right

"I'm Your Flag so Please Treat Me Right! is a story told by the American flag. It explains through the eyes of our flag what the red, white and blue stand for, and what the flag means to all Americans. "

Some of the links in this post are affiliate links. All that means is if you decide to make a purchase, I might earn a small commission at ZERO cost to you.

These books are excellent to have in the home or in a reading center at school. Kids like to be associated with things that are big, and patriotism is huge!

If you want some additional FREE resources please read "The 4th of July: 25 FREE Resources" guide ( CLICK HERE).

CLICK HERE FOR MORE FREE RESOURCES

HAVE A SAFE AND HAPPY FOURTH OF JULY!

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There are many holidays dedicated to celebrating America's heritage. They are all routed in greatness and spirit of God and country. These holidays and celebrations would not exist on our calendar if it was not for the brave men known as our Founding Fathers, on that first July 4, 1776.

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My boys' library rivals one of a kindergarten classroom. As a former special education teacher (teaching a range of ages 3-college), I accumulated numerous books over the years. While I love going to the library, I still constantly buy new books for our boys to read and enjoy. It has been extremely important to me to teach my children a love of literature. For each holiday, we have a set of books (although Carl and Jack both love to read their Christmas books throughout the rest of the year). In honor of Memorial Day, I have put together a list of ten patriotic books.

In addition to teaching our boys a love of books, we are trying to instill in them pride for their country. We want them to be aware of how our government works, our history as a country, and the people that have made our country what it is today. While I love picture books, it's also important for children to read nonfictional books. In life, being able to understand and analyze nonfiction text, is imperative. By choosing an interesting topic (such as the United States of America), it's possible to keep children engaged and excited about reading nonfiction.

For today's books, I am linking directly from Amazon. As you know, I am a huge Amazon supporter (I'm one of those girls whose husband should be wearing that shirt that says, "If my wife was a transformer, she'd be Amazon Prime"). Amazon typically has the best price on children's books around which is why I prefer to shop there.
10 Patriotic Books for Kids
Good Night, America by Adam Gamble

Good Night, Maryland, is one of our family's favorite books. It's perfect for even the youngest readers (I would say about one year old and up). In the Good Night, America, the book says "Good night" to numerous famous American landmarks such as the Statue of Liberty, the Mississippi River, and amber waves of grain. These books are simple and a quick read before nap or bedtime.

This Little President: A Presidential Primer by Joan Holub

Learn about America's presidential history with a bright and colorful board book. Ten Presidents are highlighted (and a list of all of the Presidents are listed at the end). Children learn facts about the Presidency, the White House, and facts about the featured Presidents. This book can be used for children two and up. Written for children ages two and up.

Parade Colors (First Celebrations) by Barbara Barbieri McGrath

This book is perfect for even the youngest readers. It's geared towards babies specifically. Barabara Barbieri McGrath introduces little ones to symbols and celebrations of America including parades and the American flag.

The Fourth of July Story by Alice Dalgielesh

If you want your children to learn how the country was born, then this beautifully illustrated book is for you. Dalgielesh takes you back in time to the first independence day. This story is written for children four and up (best for children ages 6-8).

Red, White, and Boom, engages children with her rhyming poetic story about the fourth of July. Parades, picnics, the beach, and more are featured as Wardlaw shares the various events that people participate in or around the Fourth of July. This is a great way to introduce the activities so little ones before they attend the events.

Corduroy's Fourth of July by Don Freeman

Corduroy is a beloved character in our house. My boys will listen to any story that features him. By using a familiar character, Freeman is able to keep his readers entertain and excited to find out what Corduroy does next for his Fourth of July celebration.

The Story of America's Birthday by Patricia A. Pingry

Pigry has developed the series "The Story of" to explain topics such as holidays and famous people. We have a few of her books and my children love them. They read the Christmas one still even though it's May. In the Story of America's Birthday, Pigry describes Americas Birthday to children.

L is for Liberty (Reading Railroad) by Wendy Cheyette Lewison

The Statue of Liberty has long been a symbol of America. In L is for Liberty, children read about the State of Liberty's history. This book teaches patriotism while engaging children with bright and coloring pages and simple text.

She Persisted: 13 American Women Who Changed the ... by Chelsea Clinton

While it may seem to you that this book is beneficial for girls to read, I also feel that it is important for my boys to read about strong women. In She Persisted, Clinton shares the stories of famous women that changed the world through their dedication, hard work, and persistence.

Land of the Pilgrims Pride: Ellis Discovers the 13 Colonies by Susan Arciero

Gingrich has created a series of stories following an elephant, Ellis through various historical events. If I am being honest, I solely chose this book based on the fact that it starred an elephant (my oldest, Carl, loves them). The adorable elephant on the cover has led us to discover her full series of interesting, historical stories.

Additional Patriotic Stories:

Don't want to forget this list of books? Pin me!
Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links for Amazon products, which means that if you click on one of the product links, I may receive a small endorsement. This is what helps keep my page and freebies, free for my readers. All items that I share are ones that I believe in and stand behind. I am Amazon Prime obsessed - I shop there more than anywhere else. While I use affiliate links, I did not receive any products for free in return for advertising or a review.

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Patriotic Books for Kids - 10 Patriotic Themed Books for Little Ones

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My boys' library rivals one of a kindergarten classroom. As a former special education teacher (teaching a range of ages 3-college), I accumulated numerous books over the years. While I love going to the library, I still constantly buy new books for our boys to read and enjoy.

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Celebrate America with this list of recommended books for children ages 0-9. Cozy up with your kid and read about real and legendary heroes and heroines, revisit classic songs, and follow the adventures of travelers across the United States.

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15 Books to Share Stories of Native American History and Experience with Kids and Teens | Brightly

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These stories offer young readers an opportunity to learn more about the rich and complex history of Indigenous peoples in North America.

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10 Children’s Books For Native American Heritage Month

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We’ve put together a comprehensive list of wonderful children’s books for Native American Heritage Month in November to help you celebrate with your class.

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November is a complicated time in elementary schools. Where I work, the first quarter of the year is wrapping up, conferences are happening, and the trepidation is setting in as I observe teachers around the school roll out their different ways of teaching about the settler holiday of Thanksgiving. It would help to have a history-conscious consensus about how we'll address this lesson (don't get me started on the dearth of social studies curriculum, good or bad), but lacking that, the most important thing I feel I can add is Indigenous perspective. My favorite way to add this perspective is with books.

Do not wait until November, of course, to start reading Indigenous picture books. I fell into this habit as a new librarian, excited to ditch my outdated, whitewashed Thanksgiving books and share the wealth of Indigenous stories I had searched up. But we live on Native land all year long, and we should be sharing their stories without pause. Students need to understand that American Indians are infinitely more than a prop in a Thanksgiving show, and see how Native people are still (despite settler-inflicted trauma) thriving in our communities in modern times. Below, I've collected some of my favorite recent releases from talented authors Indigenous to North America. You'll notice some running themes, but mostly, you'll realize you want more, more, more.

Outstanding Native and Indigenous Picture Books

You Hold Me Up by Monique Gray Smith and Danielle Daniel

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A Day with Yayah by Nicola I. Campbell and Julie Flett

I hope you've found some new books to add to the library of your choice. Whether you're gifting books to young people in your life, working to expand your choice of read-alouds in the classroom, or simply trying to support Indigenous authors, these books will get you closer to your goal! Happy reading!

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9 Indigenous and Native American Picture Books to Read Right Now

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November is a complicated time in elementary schools. Where I work, the first quarter of the year is wrapping up, conferences are happening, and the trepidation is setting in as I observe teachers around the school roll out their different ways of teaching about the settler holiday of Thanksgiving.

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Below you'll find an easy step-by-step tutorial for how to draw Frida Kahlo and a Frida Coloring Page. She is considered one of Mexico's greatest artists.

Frida Kahlo Drawing

Draw Frida Tutorial Video

Drawing Frida Kahlo

Now students that would like to learn how to draw Frida Kahlo can have some guidance in creating her likeness. This one includes her love of flowers, bright colors, and of course, trademark eyebrows.

Frida Kahlo (1907 - 1954) was a Mexican painter known for her many self-portrait paintings. She was inspired by her heritage, and loved to make colorful and bright work, filled with symbolic images. As a strong and determined woman, she overcame her struggles and accomplished a great deal as an artist.

How to Draw Frida in One Minute

Student drawings from Australia

Why Draw with Guides?

You may have noticed that all of the tutorials on this website have a dashed vertical line and horizontal line running through the center of each step. If students make their own centered lines on their own paper, before drawing, they will have an easy reference to follow. All they need to do is fold their sheet of paper in half both ways, make a crease, and unfold. The best part is, by the time the drawing is done and colored in, the creases will have disappeared!

Join "The Daily Draw" below to get this free download!

Another Frida Coloring Option

For a darker look, try drawing on black paper with a pencil and coloring with oil pastels. When the drawing is complete, trace the lines again with a black pastel to make them really stand out.

Looking for a Follow up Project?

Now it's easy to make a large scale mural that honors this amazing artist. All you need to do is print out the pages of a PDF template, have students color it according to the guide, and then tape it back together.

Your students get to experience a fun collaborative art project and you get a 43″ x 60″ work of art for your classroom.

Materials for drawing Frida Kahlo

Drawing Paper. This is the good stuff you can buy in bulk for a good price.

Pencils. I like how this brand always makes nice dark lines.

Black Marker. A permanent marker will give you a dark black color.

Crayons. The larger packs are nice for more color choices.

Note: All of the above are Amazon affiliate links.

How to make a Frida Kahlo Drawing

Time needed: 1 hour

How to Draw Frida Kahlo

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More Art History Drawing Projects

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How to Draw Frida Kahlo Easy Step by Step Art Project for Kids

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Teaching kids how to draw Frida Kahlo is easy with this simple step-by-step art lesson. Stop by and grab your free download.

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Hispanic Heritage History Month art lessons are a great way to celebrate the many influential Hispanic artists of the past and present. Here are 11 Hispanic artists I have introduced to my students and some ideas for art lessons about them.

Lourdes Villagomez

Lourdes Villagomez is a Mexican artist. She is a graphic designer, contemporary painter and muralist. Most of her artwork includes bright colors. Her Mexican heritage is woven into her artwork by incorporating traditional images and folklore. Her subject matter ranges from a charro hat to sugar skulls and catrinas, both popular with Dia De Los Muertos celebrations.

The creative and colorful approach to traditional images and folklore provide an opportunity for students to create a sugar skull design in a less traditional style. I have my students triangulate a skull drawing and use color schemes to create contrast and unity in their design. This is a great painting, color pencil or mixed media lesson.

Jaime Dominguez

Jaime Dominguez is an abstract contemporary artist from Mexico. His subject matter consists of geometric shapes and minimal colors. He uses a color palette borrowed from indigenous art in Mexico. He is passionate about mixing styles and experimentation.

His clean style and simple color palette is a great way to introduce young artists to minimalism, while teaching the elements of color, value and shape. My students learn about value by creating a simple value scale with paint or using layers of colorful construction paper to create a scale. Students use this paper to create a simple geometric shape collage that has value.

Amelia Pelaez

Amelia Palaez was born in Cuba. Her artwork was heavily influenced by Pablo Picasso. She was an important painter of the Avant-garde generation. She trained in academic impressionism, but she modified her style throughout her life. Her still life paintings include a lot of lines, shapes and patterns.

Palaez's bold lines, bright colors and simple patterns can inspire students to create a simple still life of their choice. The subject matter can be flowers, fruit, fish or everyday items. Students can fill the table, walls and ceiling with patterns using a variety of lines and shapes, much like the work of Pelaez.

Joan Miro

Joan Miro was born in Spain in 1893. He was a sculptor, painter and ceramist, but known mostly for his paintings. He is considered a Surrealist artist. His unique style is dreamlike and whimsical. His colorful paintings are simple and resemble doodles and simple drawings.

Miro's abstract style is fun for young artists to replicate, using loose playful lines and shapes to create simple line drawings. I have my students make a Miro-inspired doodle drawing using simple lines and shapes. My students also enjoy using the wet on wet watercolor technique, to create colorful paintings that are also similar to the artwork created by Miro.

Diego Rivera

Diego Rivera was born in Mexico in 1886. He was one of twin boys, unfortunately his twin brother Carlos died two years after they were born. A year later he began drawing on the wall and his parents recognized and nourished his artistic talents. Later, the Mexican government commissioned him to create murals to educate the people about Mexican history.

His revolutionary murals are a great way to introduce the concept of artwork with an impact to your students. I have students think about something they are passionate about and create a drawing or poster to communicate their message and show their voice. These mini murals are a great way for students to spread the word about what is important to them.

Lizeth Prieto

Lizeth Prieto is from Peru. Watercolor painting is her hobby and brings her joy. Her nature paintings bring her well-being and connect her to nature. She said that all of her paintings are dedicated to her mother, Chelita, whom she loves eternally. Her watercolor paintings typically include subjects from nature, such as faceted minerals and florals designs.

I am a huge fan of Lizeth Prieto's faceted mineral paintings. I teach a lesson about value where the students use pressure on their pencils to create a value range. My students draw clusters of crystals and show how the values change with a light source. You can also do this with watercolors.

Lorna Simpson

Lorna Simpson was born in Brooklyn, New York to Cuban and Jamaican parents. As an undergraduate at the New York School of Visual Arts, she studied painting at first but switched then switched to photography in which she got her degree. The subject matter of her work explores stereotypes of race and gender. She put many of these themes in her photography and collages.

In many of Lorna Simpson's collages, hair becomes the focus of infinite creative possibilities. My students create similar collages with magazine images and zentangles. The students find an image from a magazine and draw a hair shape around the portrait. Students then divide the hair shape into many shapes and then fill them with Zentangles. It is a great lesson on shape, line and a wonderful introduction to the work of Lorna Simpson. More information on this lesson is available here.

Pablo Picasso

Pablo Picasso was born in Spain in 1881. He is most famous for co-creating Cubism and is considered one of the most iconic artists of the 20th century. He is most well known for his paintings, but he also created drawings, sculptures and ceramics. Picasso created over 50,000 works of art.

A lesson on Cubism is the obvious choice to teach about Picasso and also a great introduction to abstract art for many students. My students use guitars as the subject matter and change the shape of the guitar body, neck and head. To make their artwork complete, my students fill the background with geometric shapes and textures, similar to Picasso's guitar paintings.

Frida Kahlo

Frida Kahlo was born in Mexico in 1907 and died in 1954. She is considered one of the most significant artists of the 20th century. She was severely injured in a bus crash in her youth and confined to her bed. This is when she began painting. She depicted her physical and emotional pain in many of her portraits, as well as her rocky relationship with her husband, artist Diego Rivera.

As primarily a portrait artist, Kahlo opens the door of opportunity to create an autobiographical portrait. The students draw a self portrait, then add pets, favorite animals, headpieces, hats, jewelry and creative shirts that provide the viewer some personal information about the artist. I also use this lesson to teach students how to draw a face with correct facial proportions. Click here to check out my Frida Kahlo Inspired Portrait Lesson.

Jean-Michel Basquiat

Jean-Michel Basquiat was born in Brooklyn, New York to a father from Haiti and a mother from Puerto Rico. He worked as an Abstract Expressionist painter and his style was shaped by his diverse cultural heritage. He depicted much of his subject matter through symbolism.

His artwork is a great way to introduce students to the idea of self-expression and symbolism. I ask my students to reflect on their personal journey, interests and heritage to create an expressive painting. Students create a symbol to represent a component from their life and incorporate that into their painting. Simple self-portraits inspired by Basquiat are also a great way to introduce young artists to Basquiat.

José Clemente Orozco

José Clemente Orozco was born in Mexico in 1883. He became interested in art at the age of 7. At the age of 21, Orozco lost his left hand while working with gunpowder to make fireworks. He was part of a movement with David Alfaro Siqueiros and Diego Rivera, known as Los Tres Grandes. Celebrating the Mexican people's potential to craft the nation's history was a key theme in Mexican muralism.

I have created many murals with my students over the years, both permanent and temporary. When creating a large scale collaborative painting or mural it is nice to give students a connection to the power and influence of murals as an art form. I make temporary murals with butcher paper and tempera paint. Many times I will create the line art for the mural and students will add color with paint.
Many of the above ideas are from my 'Celebrating Hispanic Artists" bundle of 6 elementary art lessons. Click here to check it out.
Here's a few lesson ideas I've used that are specifically for older elementary or middle school students.

I have students create a landscape using techniques similar to what the Huichol of Mexico use. I teach students about Huichol Art and artists, then have them create a landscape with yarn that uses color, texture and direction to create variety in their artwork. Click here for more information.

Frida Kahlo Inspired Portraits

We create a self-portrait including an environment that communicates characteristics of each individual. I teach the importance of heritage, and how to draw a portrait with the correct proportions and facial features. Check it out here.

3D Paper Masks

I have taught a 3D Paper Mask art lesson many times that celebrates the Vejigante mask tradition of Puerto Rico. I have students create a symmetrical three dimensional mask using various paper folding techniques, then apply patterns with markers. I give them a mask ideas handout to jump start their creativity. Click here to learn more.

FREE POSTERS: This set of four Hispanic Heritage Month printable art room posters is free to all Art With Trista subscribers. Click here to download.
Thanks for reading - Trista
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Hispanic Heritage Month Art Lessons - Art With Trista

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Hispanic Heritage History Month Art Lessons - 11 Great Hispanic Artists and Ideas for Art Lessons About Them.

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Named after the first Latina librarian at the New York Public Library, the Pura Belpré Award was established in 1996.

It recognizes Latino/Latina writers and illustrators whose work best portrays the Latinx culture in an outstanding work of children and youth literature.

Browse this list of Pura Belpré award winners of the past 23 years for some inspiring reads!

Pura Belpré Award Winners 1996 - 2019

1996 Author Award Winner

An Island Like You is a collection of twelve stories about growing up in the barrio. From Rita, who goes to live with her grandparents in Puerto Rico, to Luis, who works at his father's junkyard, and Sandra, who tries to rediscover her natural Latino beauty, the vibrant stories capture the experiences of different teenagers in the barrio. ~ Hispanic - High School

1996 Illustrator Award Winner

The coolest low-riding cat in the barrio, Chato, is preparing a feast to welcome his new neighbours: A tasty-looking family of mice. In his mind, the main course and the guests of honour are one and the same thing. But the mice are bringing a surprise guest of their own... Chato's Kitchen is a fun read, brought to life by Susan Guevera's rich comical illustrations. ~ Hispanic - Elementary School

1998 Author Award Winner

In a series of vignettes Parrot In The Oven tells the compelling story of a Mexican American teenager's coming of age. All 14-year-old Manny Hernandez wants is some respect. But with an abusive father, a troubled brother, and a cleaning-obsessed mother, that isn't easy to achieve. One way to get respect in the barrio is to be in a gang, but Manny′s not sure that this is really what he wants... ~ Hispanic - High School

1998 Illustrator Award Winner

In vivid snapshots, flower girl Maya gives readers a glimpse into a Latino wedding. Snapshots from the Wedding captures all the special moments. There's Aunt Marta crying during the ceremony, and there are games, a cake, and dancing to a mariachi band. Stephanie Garcia's unique illustrations show sculpted clay figures in wooden shadow box frames. The background of pastel with lace gives this picture book the feel of a wedding album. ~ Hispanic - Elementary School

2000 Author Award Winner

In ten poignant stories, Ama Flor Ada shares her childhood memories of growing up in post-war Cuba. Under the Royal Palms tells of the important people in the author's life, from her loving mother and her daring uncle with his love of flying to a beloved dance teacher who helped her through a very difficult school year. This companion book to Where the Flame Trees Bloomoffers young readers another inspiring collection of stories that might just encourage them to have a closer look at their own stories. Includes black-and-white photographs of the author and her family. ~ Hispanic - Middle School

2000 Illustrator Award Winner

Magic Windows offers a glimpse into the personal stories behind Carmen Lomas Garza's artwork. From picking oranges for her grandmother to watching her grandfather water the garden, from making tamales with the whole family to teaching her nieces and nephews how to make their own magic windows, this beautiful book celebrates family, community and the author's Mexican heritage. In simple bilingual text, Garza explains the stories behind her cut-paper images and paintings. ~ Hispanic - Elementary School

2002 Author Award Winner

Based on the life of Munoz Ryan's grandmother, this middle-grade novel tells the story of Esperanza. The young girl has to flee from her rich life on a Mexican ranch during the Great Depression. Now living in a camp for Mexican workers in California, she experiences hard labour, poverty and hostility for the first time. Esperanza Rising is a captivating story about immigration, assimilation and a young girl's growth in the face of change and adversity. ~ Hispanic - Middle School

2002 Illustrator Award Winner

When Chato learns that Novio Boy has never had a birthday party, he decides to throw him a surprise pachanga. He invites everyone in the neighbourhood, cooks up a feast, arranges a pinata and music, and orders a special cake. But when the party starts he realizes that he forgot the most important thing... With lively text and Guevera's bold artwork, Chato and The Party Animals is a fun sequel to Chato's Kitchen. ~ Hispanic - Elementary School

2004 Author Award Winner

12-year-old Anita has never questioned her freedom living in the Dominican Republic. But then most of her family emigrates to the U.S., her Tío Toni disappears without a trace, and secret police terrorize her remaining family. Anita gradually becomes aware of the lack of freedom under the country's dictatorship. When her father and uncle are arrested, Anita and her mother have to go into hiding in their friends' bedroom closet. Before We Were Free is a stirring novel about adolescence, perseverance, and one girl's struggle to be free. ~ Hispanic - High School

2004 Illustrator Award Winner
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With a knock at the door, Señor Calavera arrives at Grandma Beetle's house. He tells her it's time to come along but Grandma Beetle stalls for time. "Just a Minute," she says, and attends to one chore after the next, from sweeping the house to cooking and filling piñatas. Eventually, her nine grandchildren arrive for her birthday party, and Señor Calavera is invited, too. With dynamic text and lively illustrations reflecting Mexican culture, Just a Minute - A Trickster Tale and Counting Book is a fun and original read-aloud book. ~ Hispanic - Preschool

2006 Author Award Winner

When 14-year-old Sofia receives a scholarship to an elite boarding school, she has to leave the barrio and navigate a strange world of rich, privileged kids. The Tequila Worm is an easy-to-read, heartfelt coming-of-age story of a Mexican American girl working towards her dreams whilst valuing her roots. ~ Hispanic - High School

2006 Illustrator Award Winner

Giant Doña Flor is popular in her tiny village in the American Southwest. She lets the children use her flowers as trumpets, her leftover tortillas as rafts, and she loves reading to them. When there is a terrifying roar just outside the village one day, Flor and her animal friends set off to find the creature, only to discover a very small reason for the big noise. Doña Flor is a humorous tall tale about a giant lady with an even bigger heart, beautifully illustrated with Raul Colón's signature warm mix of watercolour washes, etching, and litho pencils. ~ Hispanic - Preschool

2008 Author Award Winner

Kept by a wealthy slave owner in 1797 Cuba, 6-year-old Juan Francisco Manzano was treated like a pet. His mistress abused his talent for memorizing and reciting poems by making him perform in front of her guests. After her death, Manzano became the property of an even crueller mistress. He had to endure countless beatings and confinements before his escape at age 16. In powerful free verse and with compelling illustrations, The Poet Slave of Cuba tells the heart-breaking story of a young survivor of slavery. Despite experiencing unspeakable cruelty, Manzano managed to maintain hope and went on to become a celebrated poet. ~ Hispanic - High School

2008 Illustrator Award Winner

It's Halloween! Los muertos rise from their coffins, las brujascome arrive on their broomsticks, and los esqueletos rattle their bones as they dance through the door. But the party stops dead with the arrival of scary human niños ... Los Gatos Black on Halloween is fun and suspenseful bilingual poem, beautifully illustrated by three-times award-winner Yuyi Morales. Her spooky yet humorous paintings will be a hit with all children! ~ Hispanic - Elementary School

2009 Author Award Winner

After three wars for independence, Cuba is still is not free in 1896. People are sent to "reconcentration camps" where there is little food and plenty of illness. In alternating voices and free verse, The Surrender Tree reveals pieces of Cuba's lesser-known past, drawing on Engle's grandmother's stories. The main narrator is Rosa, a traditional healer, who nurses runaway slaves and deserters in hidden caves. Other voices include those of Rosa's husband José, camp escapee Silvia, and evil slave hunter Lieutenant Death who collects the ears of the slaves he has killed. ~ Hispanic - High School

2009 Illustrator Award Winner

In this sequel to award-winning, Just a Minute Señor Calvera tries to figure out what to give Grandma Beetle for her birthday. Misunderstanding Zelmiro the Ghost's advice, he decides to get her one gift for every letter of the alphabet: An accordion (acordéon) for her to dance to. a mustache (bigotes) because she has none, tickles (cosquillas) to make her laugh... When he arrives at the end of the alphabet, Señor Calvera realizes that the best gift for Grandma Beetle is seeing her friends. Yuyi Morales' fun and warm artwork complement the story-line of Just in Case beautifully. ~ Hispanic - Preschool

2010 Author Award Winner

When 11-year-old Tyler's father is injured in a tractor accident, his family is forced to let undocumented Mexican labourers run their Vermont farm. Tyler starts befriending the workers' daughter, Mari, with whom he shares an interest in stargazing. But will their friendship survive when immigration agents raid the farm and imprison Mari's parents? Told through alternating viewpoints of Tyler and Mari, Return to Sender is a contemporary immigration story without easy answers but full of hope. ~ Hispanic - Middle School

2010 Illustrator Award Winner

Book Fiesta! is a bilingual celebration of Children's Day/Book Day (El día de los niños/El día de los libros) which is observed annually on April 30th to emphasize the importance of literacy for children of all backgrounds. Founder Pat Mora's fun text coupled with Rafael López's colourful and lively illustrations make this picture book a hit for story time. Includes a letter from the author and suggestions for celebrating Children's Day /Book Day. ~ Hispanic - Preschool

2011 Author Award Winner

Inspired by poet Pablo Neruda's childhood, this middle-grade novel tells the story of young Neftali who hears the call of a mysterious voice. Despite being ridiculed, he knows he must follow it. Award-winning The Dreamer takes the reader on a magical journey through the lush rainforest, wild sea and persistent Chilean rain to the source of the voice. Includes some of Neruda's poetry. ~ Hispanic - Middle School

2011 Illustrator Award Winner

After preparing their traditional Puerto Rican Christmas celebration, Eric and his grandmother visit the Metropolitan Museum of Art. Eric is fascinated by a painting by Diego Velasquez and wonders whether he could be an artist one day. Later, Grandma gives him the perfect Christmas gift: A set of paints. Based on the author's childhood memories, Grandma's Gift is a heart-warming story about self-discovery and the special bond between a grandparent and grandchild. Velasquez's rich paintings add to the warm feel of this book. ~ Hispanic - Elementary School

2012 Author Award Winner

"En los Estados Unidos / I trained my tongue / and twisted syllables / to form words / that sounded hollow, / like the rain at midnight / dripping into tin pails / through the thatched roof / of our abuelita's house." Lupita is terrified by the possibility of losing her mother who has been diagnosed with cancer. High school, friendships, and being in a play are all suddenly less important. All Lupita wants is to save her mother's life. Under The Mesquite is a heartfelt free-verse novel about a Mexican American teenager coping with loss and adult responsibilities. ~ Hispanic - High School

2012 Illustrator Award Winner

This charming picture book shows Diego Rivera as a young, mischievous boy who loved to draw. Growing up he followed his passion for art and became one of the world's most famous painters. Diego Rivera is an inspiring introduction to Rivera's work, beautifully illustrated by the author. Tonatiuh also encourages readers to think about what Rivera would paint today, how his paintings would reflect today's culture. ~ Hispanic - Elementary School

2013 Author Award Winner

When Aristotle and Dante first meet in the summer of 1987, the two teenagers don't seem to have much in common. Dante is very sure of himself, whereas Aristotle is an angry teen with a brother in prison. Aristotle and Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe follows the back-and-forth of the two teenagers' developing relationship over the course of a year. At the heart of this thought-provoking novel are the themes of family, cultural and sexual identity. ~ Hispanic - High School

2013 Illustrator Award Winner

This stunningly illustrated picture book tells the story of the first black saint of the Americas. Martin de Porres was the illegitimate son of a Spanish nobleman and a former African Peruvian slave. His mother begged the church fathers to allow him into the priesthood but they only accepted him as a servant boy. When Martin started to perform miracles, he soon became known as the "mulatto boy with healing hands" who gave first to the people of the barrios. Martin was made a saint in 1962. David Diaz' expressive paintings complement the touching story of Martin de Porres: The Rose in the Desert beautifully. ~ Hispanic - Elementary School

2014 Author Award Winner

Piddy Sanchez finds herself the target of a bully at her new school. With her white skin, good grades, and no accent, Piddy isn't Latin enough for Yaqui Delgado. Piddy isn't too worried about Yaqui's threats at first. She is more concerned with finding out more about her absent father and balancing her honours courses with her weekend job. But then the bullying escalates... Yaqui Delgado Wants to Kick Your Ass is a heartfelt novel about a Latina teen who discovers resources she never knew she had. ~ Hispanic - High School

2014 Illustrator Award Winner

Zok! Slish! Bloop! Krunch! One by one, little Niño defeats the Mummy of Guanajuato, the stone Olmec Head, La Llorona, the Alien, and the devil-like El Chamuco. But when his younger sisters wake up from their naps, he faces his biggest challenge yet: Las Hermanitas! Niño Wrestles the World is a cute cartoon-like lucha libre story, brought to life by Morales' unique illustrations. Includes information about the lucha libre culture in Mexico. ~ Hispanic - Preschool

2015 Author Award Winner

11-year-old Celeste lives a peaceful life among family, friends and neighbours in the idyllic seaside town of Valparaiso, Chile. But her world is turned upside down when warships arrive, and classmates start disappearing without an explanation. Celeste doesn't quite understand but she knows that no one is safe anymore. Her parents have to go into hiding and send Celeste to America to protect her. Based on true events during Pinochet's dictatorship, I Lived on Butterfly Hill is a heart-rending historical fiction novel about exile and reunification, loss and hope. ~ Hispanic - Middle School

2015 Illustrator Award Winner

"I feel / And create / And so... / I live!" Distinguished author and illustrator Yuyi Morales illuminates Frida Kahlo's life and work in this unique picture book biography. With minimal text and culture-rich mixed-media illustrations - created with puppets, paintings and digital elements - bilingual Frida is a beautiful homage to the famous Mexican painter. ~ Hispanic - Elementary School

2016 Author Award Winner

2016 Illustrator Award Winner

Based on the life of Millo Castro Zaldarriaga, Drum Dream Girl tells the story of a Chinese-African-Cuban girl who broke Cuba's traditional taboo of female drumming. Dreaming of pounding congas and tapping bongós, little Millo practices in secret and eventually becomes the first well-known female drummer in Cuba. With Rafael López's vibrant and detailed illustrations in acrylic paint on wood, this is an inspiring children's book about a young girl's determination to make her dream come true. ~ Diverse - Elementary School

For a more in-depth review of this book, go to: Multicultural Book of the Month: Drum Dream Girl

2017 Author Award Winner

Spunky little Juana loves drawing, eating Brussels sprouts, living in Bogotá, Colombia, and most of all her dog Lucas. What she doesn't like is wearing her itchy school uniform, solving math problems, going to dance class and most of all learning English. It is only when her grandparents tell her about an upcoming special trip that Juana starts to think that maybe learning English could be useful after all. The first book of a new series, humourous Juana & Lucas with its endearing main character is sure to win over the hearts of young readers everywhere. ~ Hispanic - Elementary School

2017 Illustrator Award Winner

This sequel to Lowriders in Space brings back the lovable car-repairing trio Lupe Impala, Elirio Malaria, and El Chavo Octopus. When their cat Genie goes missing, the search leads them to the realm of Mictlantecuhtli, the Aztec god of the Underworld, who is keeping Genie prisoner. With Raul the Third's intricate artwork, an action-packed storyline, and cool Spanish phrases throughout, Lowriders to the Center of the Earth is a graphic novel that even reluctant readers will love. ~ Hispanic - Elementary School, Middle School

2018 Author Award Winner

*You can buy any of the books on this site from Amazon USA, CAN or UK by clicking on the book titles or covers*

More books with Hispanic characters:
Hispanic - Babies & Toddlers Hispanic - Preschool Hispanic - Elementary School Hispanic - Middle School Hispanic - High School

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Pura Belpré Award Winners 1996 - 2019 | Colours of Us

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Named after the first Latina librarian at the New York Public Library, the Pura Belpré Award was established in 1996. It recognizes Latino/Latina writers and illustrators whose work best portrays the Latinx culture in an outstanding work of children and youth literature.

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"Planting Stories: The Life of Librarian and Storyteller Pura Belpré" by Anika A. Denise

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"Planting Stories: The Life of Librarian and Storyteller Pura Belpré" by Anika A. Denise

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"When she came to America in 1921, Pura Belpré carried the cuentos folklóricos of her Puerto Rican homeland. Finding a new home at the New York Public Library as a bilingual assistant, she turned her popular retellings into libros and spread story seeds across the land. Today, these seeds have grown into a lush landscape as generations of children and storytellers continue to share her tales and celebrate Pura's legacy."

More on Bookshop.org
• Puerto-Rican American History
• American History
• Literary Nonfiction (Biography)
• Translanguaging