Horn Book Review
An easy reader introduces concepts of the African-American celebration, describing the historical background, principles, and traditions of Kwanzaa. The illustrations are executed in a rich, warm palette and incorporate African motifs, but the format is unattractive. (c) Copyright 2010. The Horn Book, Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.
Kirkus Review
A clear, straightforward presentation of the weeklong African-American holiday, setting it in historical context and explaining its special observances, principles, and words both in the text and in summaries that will be valuable for reference. Though the text is very simple and the realistic full-color illustrations appear in every double spread, the book's dignified style and format give it broad appeal. An attractive, useful addition. (Nonfiction. 5-11)
Booklist Review
Gr. 2-4. When Christmas and Hanukkah are over, there is more to celebrate. African Americans are invited to remember and praise their rich history and culture by observing Kwanzaa. Created in the late 1960s, Kwanzaa lasts seven days, and on each day, a positive principle is affirmed. Porter supplies a brief background of black history, emphasizing the need for self-determination (Kujichagulia) and unity (umoja). A few of the Swahili names and spellings differ from those in other works about Kwanzaa. The quality of the softly hued illustrations varies, but for the most part, they are competently drawn. Libraries wishing to fill the demand for multicultural titles should consider this. ~--Denia Hester