Celebrate Halloween with Pumpkins, Costumes, and Candy: With Pumpkins, Costumes, and Candy (Holidays Around the World)

K-Gr 3. While Halloween is a favorite holiday for many children, it can also bring fear and confusion. This warm, informational book, perfect for sharing aloud or enjoying individually, will clear up the mystery and calm any fears. Children will recognize familiar customs, such as carving pumpkins, dressing up, and hanging decorations, explained in simple, yet satisfying, text. The holiday is made accessible and inviting through the use of inclusive phrases such as, "We knock on doors. We say, 'Trick or treat!'" Nervous readers will take comfort in the book's recurring theme: Halloween is a time for fun. Lovely, well-captioned color photographs feature children around the world joyfully taking part in festivities; readers will certainly see themselves reflected in the illustrations. A basic background on the origin of Halloween covers the evolution of trick-or-treating and the legend of the jack-o'-lantern. Back matter includes activity ideas, recommendations for further reading, and information on The Day of the Dead. A wonderful introduction to contemporary customs. - Amanda Moss, Maywood Elementary School, Monona, WI

Copyright 2007 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.