From School Library Journal
Grade 2-5-This informative and succinct title begins with a definition of the equinox and covers historical perspectives as well as current festivities in America, Europe, China, India, Nigeria, Angola, and Great Britain. An autumn story from the Sauk ("-a North American people originally living in Michigan, Wisconsin, and Illinois") caps the presentation. Crafts, recipes, and games enhance the book's educational potential. Ellis's stimulating folk-art illustrations capture the essences of different cultures while retaining a continuity that helps to highlight similarities among such observances. Though not detailed enough to support an in-depth report, the information provides an excellent introduction to the importance of the autumn equinox. Though this title works best read independently or one-on-one, individual sections could be shared with a large group. The Autumn Equinox should join Jackson's The Winter Solstice (Millbrook, 1994) in any library serving children.
Jody McCoy, The Bush School, Seattle, WA
Copyright 2000 Reed Business Information, Inc. --This text refers to the Library Binding edition.
Jody McCoy, The Bush School, Seattle, WA
Copyright 2000 Reed Business Information, Inc. --This text refers to the Library Binding edition.
