Using a controlled vocabulary in an appealing format, these books begin by defining the holidays and explaining their history and significance. They give examples of how they are celebrated and commemorated, such as private and public religious observations, public ceremonies, family celebrations, community and public service projects, and special meals and parties. Each spread contains a few brief sentences and photos of children and families engaging in holiday rituals or drawings of historic events and people. A picture glossary provides definitions. VERDICT Suitable for read-alouds and independent reading, this set will help early primary students learn about the deep historic and cultural roots of our commemorative holidays. A first purchase.-- "School Library Journal"