Joy to the World!

September 13, 2021
Highlighting 13 specifically Christian Christmas-oriented celebrations, DePalma touches briefly on holiday traditions in Argentina, Australia, Canada, Colombia, Egypt, Ethiopia, Iceland, India, Italy, Lebanon, Mexico, the Philippines, and Serbia. Rhyming couplets—two per page—highlight moments of sharing and togetherness: about Iceland’s Jólabókaflóð, for example, “On Christmas Eve night, despite the cold weather,/ We all exchange books and then read them together.” Though the uncertain prevalence of each country’s respective traditions makes the selections feel randomized, naïf-style mixed media art by Fatus warmly portrays beaming, beatific individuals of various abilities, ages, and skin tones gathering in groups. Many non-English words are defined in the text; back matter further contextualizes each country’s Christmas tradition. Ages 4–10.

November 1, 2021

PreS-Gr 2-A sweet journey around the globe to 13 countries and cultures that features how families celebrate Christmas. The ultra-colorful illustrations fill each page, complete with borders that represent traditional fabrics, tile work, or flora from each country. Readers are pulled into the homes of families celebrating their unique holiday traditions. The rhyming text describes family activities, meal preparations, and special moments, and the engaging illustrations are just the right match. When sharing with the youngest of listeners, adults could easily play "Eye Spy" at each reading, because there are so many details. The book shows multigenerational families enjoying each other's company, indoors and out, as well as a variety of inclusive family structures. Religious practices and beliefs are acknowledged for some countries, but are not the main focus. Back matter includes more information about each country. VERDICT While this book is not unique in presenting holidays around the world, it is certainly charming and attractive. A lovely addition for larger collections, especially where families eat books like these up seasonally.-Linda Annable, Newport P.L. Newport, OR

Copyright 2021 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

November 1, 2021
DePalma and Fatus joyfully highlight some rituals, customs, and foods that Christians around the world enjoy at Christmastime. Each spread features one of thirteen countries (including Colombia, Ethiopia, Serbia, and Iceland) and contains four simple lines of pleasing rhyming verse (plus occasional pronunciations in small print). The vibrant, textured mixed-media illustrations show families and friends celebrating together, because "though we might gather in different ways, / Christmas for many brings meaningful days." The extensive back matter offers additional fascinating details perfect to share at holiday festivities. For example, did you know the holiday season lasts almost five months in the Philippines? One plane ticket, please! Cynthia K. Ritter

(Copyright 2021 by The Horn Book, Incorporated, Boston. All rights reserved.)

July 1, 2021
DePalma and Fatus joyfully highlight some rituals, customs, and foods that Christians around the world enjoy at Christmastime. Each spread features one of thirteen countries (including Colombia, Ethiopia, Serbia, and Iceland) and contains four simple lines of pleasing rhyming verse (plus occasional pronunciations in small print). The vibrant, textured mixed-media illustrations show families and friends celebrating together, because "though we might gather in different ways, / Christmas for many brings meaningful days." The extensive back matter offers additional fascinating details perfect to share at holiday festivities. For example, did you know the holiday season lasts almost five months in the Philippines? One plane ticket, please!

(Copyright 2021 by The Horn Book, Incorporated, Boston. All rights reserved.)