CELEBRATE!

The well-traveled author-photographer, who has provided many strongly individual portraits of peoples, now emphasizes similarities in the celebrations that humans have created for the seasons, births, deaths, weddings and histories. The sharing of food and drink; the gathering of many people together; the use of masks, distinctive clothing and makeup; and the special elements of music, dance and fire are all found in the festivals and observances of far-flung and still largely traditional cultures, including the Tibetans and Sherpas, the Tuareg, the Sami, the Inuit, the Balinese, the Yanomami and the Aborigines. Some U.S. celebrations are also included. The fascinating photographs are the strong point here, but the short paragraphs that explain the rituals and customs will tantalize readers to find out more. (bibliography) (Nonfiction. 7-11)