Diwali - Hindu Festival of Lights (Best Holiday Books) [Library Binding]

Dianne M. MacMillan (Author)

Book Description

Publication Date: January 2008 | Age Level: 8 and up | Grade Level: 3 and up | Series: Best Holiday Books

Discusses the history and traditions, as well as the symbols and current celebration of this Hindu holiday.

--This text refers to an alternate Library Binding edition.

Editorial Reviews

From School Library Journal

Grade 2–5—This revision of the 1997 edition begins with a description of the rows of oil lamps that are lit during this autumn festival. A map of India, marking four major cities and neighboring countries, is followed by a short explanation of the main elements of Hinduism. The book includes abbreviated retellings of the two stories told during the celebration—Rama's return after his long exile on the night of the new moon, and Krishna's defeat of the evil Narakasura, but it does not point out that Rama's story is told in northern India while Krishna's is predominately related in the south. Similarly, a short chapter titled "How Diwali Began" translates the name of the holiday as "Row of Lights" without differentiating between the southern Deepavali and northern Diwali. MacMillan mentions correctly, however, that Lakshmi, the goddess of good fortune and wealth, symbolizes the holiday for most Hindus today, making it an important time for businesses. Descriptions of family traditions such as holding a prayer ceremony to honor Lakshmi, decorating the house with designs made of colored rice flour, and special foods and clothes are written in direct, easy language. Some of the photos feature Indian Americans; others depict scenes from India. A photograph of the Golden Temple in Amritsar lacks the explanation that this is the sacred monument of the Sikhs. Celebrate Diwali (National Geographic, 2007) gives a more in-depth and accurate introduction to this important holiday.—Monika Schroeder, American Embassy School Library, New Delhi, India
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Product Details

• Reading level: Ages 8 and up
  
• Library Binding: 48 pages
• Publisher: Enslow Elementary; Rev Upd edition (January 2008)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0766030601
• ISBN-13: 978-0766030602
• Product Dimensions: 9.1 x 7.8 x 0.3 inches
• Shipping Weight: 8 ounces (View shipping rates and policies)
• Average Customer Review: 5.0 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (1 customer review)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #2,302,001 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

5.0 out of 5 stars AN EXCELLENT INTRODUCTION TO HINDUISM FOR YOUNGER READERS (7-10), December 21, 2010

By 

Steven H. Propp (Sacramento, CA USA) - See all my reviews
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This review is from: Diwali - Hindu Festival of Lights (Best Holiday Books) (Library Binding)

This illustrated volume begins by briefly explaining Hinduism, then "The Story of Rama," "The Story of Krishna," "How Diwali Began," "Getting Ready for Diwali, "Community Celebrations," and "Diwali Arrives." It also includes a Glossary and an Index.