Kwanzaa has been a family holiday and tradition that we’ve celebrated since I was a little girl over 25 years ago. Being able to celebrate it with my son from the beginning of his life has been very special to me. In addition to actively celebrating from December 26 – January 1 each holiday season, we read books about Kwanzaa, as well. Here are some books that we love to help teach your little one about Kwanzaa – whether you celebrate, or not!
Learn more about how to celebrate Kwanzaa at Old World New, and you can watch a video about each of the Seven Principles, the Nguzo Saba, on IGTV and on YouTube.
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11 Children’s Picture Books About Kwanzaa
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It’s Kwanzaa Time: A Lift-the-Flap Story
by Synthia Saint James
Unity, togetherness, and creativity are just a few of the principles to celebrate during Kwanzaa — and all year round. Lift the flaps to discover the true meaning and spirit of Kwanzaa.
Together for Kwanzaa
by Juwanda G. Ford
Kwanzaa is Kayla’s favorite time of year. But this year, it looks as if a heavy snowstorm will keep her big brother, Khari, from getting home in time for the festivities! Will Khari miss the celebration completely? Or will Kayla and her brother somehow find a way to be together for Kwanzaa? A perfect introduction to Kwanzaa, this book will teach children all about the traditions and practices that make it a special winter holiday.
The Story of Kwanzaa
by Donna L. Washington
It’s time for Kwanzaa! Light the candles on the kinara! Fly the bendera, and tell stories from Africa! The seven principles of Kwanzaa, called the Nguzo Saba, serve to remind African Americans of the struggles of the past, and also focus on present-day achievements and goals for the future. The holiday fun continues with activities at the end of the book, including making your own cow-tail switch and baking benne cakes.
My First Kwanzaa
by Karen Katz
During the seven days of Kwanzaa, we celebrate the importance of family, friends, and community. This warm and lively introduction to a very special holiday will help even the youngest children join in!
Author and illustrator Karen Katz’s wonderful series of picture books for the very young offer a simple and fun way to get familiar with the traditions of holiday celebrations from different cultures.
Seven Spools of Thread: A Kwanzaa Story
by Angela Shelf Medearis
In an African village live seven brothers who make life miserable with their constant fighting. When their father dies, he leaves an unusual will: by sundown, the brothers must make gold out of seven spools of thread or they will be turned out as beggars.
Li’l Rabbit’s Kwanzaa
by Donna L. Washington
Li’l Rabbit is not having a very good Kwanzaa. Granna Rabbit is sick, and so his family won’t celebrate his favorite part of Kwanzaa this year: a big feast called Karamu. Maybe I’m just too little to help Granna Rabbit celebrate Kwanzaa, Li’l Rabbit thinks. Or maybe he just needs a little help from his family and friends.
My Family Celebrates Kwanzaa
by Lisa Bullard
Kwanzaa traces its origins to the American Civil Rights era. Critical thinking questions and fast facts prompt young readers to engage with this fun narrative and learn all about Kwanzaa.
The Sound of Kwanzaa
by Dimitrea Tokunbo
Hear the words, sing the songs, dance to the beat, and shout “Harambee!” as you jump into this joyful celebration of the sounds of Kwanzaa! Lively verse and colorful illustrations guide you through the seven principles of this festive holiday. All you have to do is come close, gather round, and discover what Kwanzaa is all about!
Celebra Kwanzaa con Bonitas y sus gatos
by Alma Flor Ada and F. Isabel Campoy
An African-American family gets together to celebrate Kwanzaa, but the celebration is spoiled because their beloved pet cat is missing. As the family sets off on a quest to find the cat, the reader learns about the seven values celebrated in Kwanzaa in a simple and entertaining way. Includes an informative section about the holiday.
Kevin’s Kwanzaa
by Lisa Bullard
Kevin’s family is celebrating the seven days of Kwanzaa! Kevin helps his mom decorate the Kwanzaa table. They light candles with Grandma and Grandpa and learn a special word each day. They talk about working together and solving problems. On the sixth day, everyone eats and dances at a big feast!
Holidays Around The World: Celebrate Kwanzaa (National Geographic Kids)
by Carolyn Otto
Kevin’s family is celebrating the seven days of Kwanzaa! Kevin helps his mom decorate the Kwanzaa table. They light candles with Grandma and Grandpa and learn a special word each day. They talk about working together and solving problems. On the sixth day, everyone eats and dances at a big feast!
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