FIESTA!

Subtitled Mexico's Great Celebrations, a basic discussion— in pleasant if somewhat dry prose—of the three cultures that have influenced Mexican life and art and the many colorful holidays and feasts that have resulted from this unique mix. While the text is occasionally anecdotal, Silverthorne mostly sticks to relating hard facts, resulting in a textbook quality. Still, the book is enlivened by colorful art reflecting Mexican themes, decorative motifs and by including simple crafts and recipes for youngsters to try. Useful. Glossary; calendar of fiestas; further reading; index. (Nonfiction. 9-12)