“Come close, gather ’round. / Listen to the sound of Kwanzaa.” These words and the lighting of a candle mark each night of Kwanzaa. Tokunbo explains the seven principles in simple, concise language that even the youngest readers will understand. Many books on the subject focus on the actions and meanings of the principles, while this one uses the results of the action, which creates a story rather than prosaic factual text. What will you hear on each night? Loving words, ancient stories, sweeping brooms, laughing shoppers, sharing dreams, singing voices and thankful prayers bring readers into the celebration. Cohen’s equally simple illustrations complement the text, the deep, vibrant colors reflecting the festive and reflective atmosphere of the celebration. (author’s note, recipe, bibliography) (Picture book. 4-9)
