Books in Holiday Histories series

Juneteenth, which is celebrated each year on June 19th, commemorates the end of slavery in the United States. This holiday began in 1865, more than two years after President Lincoln issued the Emancipation Proclamation. News spread much slower back then, and when slaves in Texas finally learned of their freedom, the holiday was born. In this book, readers are given an in-depth look at the history of Juneteenth, including the events leading up to its creation. Readers will love learning about how this important moment in U.S. history is celebrated each year.

It is November 11 and school is closed. But do you know why? It's Veterans Day, of course? Turn the pages of this book to find out: why veterans wear flowers on Veterans Day, what happens at the eleventh hour, on the eleventh day, of the eleventh month each year, who were the Axis Powers. Each book in the Holiday Histories series describes one of America's holidays or special days. Explore the history of each day and learn the real reason why it is important. Discover what special meaning each day might have for you.

Despite what many people believe, Cinco de Mayo isn't the day Mexico celebrates its independence. The holiday, celebrated on May 5th each year, actually commemorates the date Mexican troops defeated the French more than 150 years ago. In this book, readers will find information about the history of Cinco de Mayo, including where and how it's celebrated around the world. Interestingly, it's a much bigger deal in the United States than in other countries, even Mexico. Colorful images bring the celebration to splendid focus on each page, drawing readers into the fascinating history of this Mexican holiday.

Six more weeks of winter! That's what people shout each year on February 2nd if the famous groundhog in Punxsutawney, Pennsylvania, sees his shadow. An animal might seem like a strange and unreliable way to predict the weather, but people have been consulting critters on this for hundreds of years. With age-appropriate text, this book explores the history of Groundhog Day from its origins as a pagan celebration to today. Full-color images provide an up-close look at these furry little weather predictors. Readers might hope for a sunny start to February and an early start to spring, but what will the groundhog say?

Whether it's the silly fun of April Fools' Day or the spooky scares of Halloween, we all become kids again when it comes to holidays, and every child has favorites. This set takes holiday celebration to a deeper level, exploring the histories and traditions behind our favorite holidays. Complete with manageable texts paired with colorful holiday photographs, this set will fascinate and educate even the most reluctant readers. Your readers will also examine how each holiday is celebrated in contemporary society. Features include: High-interest topic and an integral part of early elementary education. Close photograph-to-text correlation supports reader comprehension.