During winter’s darkest time, when the days are shortest, we celebrate the radiant glow of light. A magical aura surrounds the holiday season, inviting us to gather around the warmth of candles, crackling bonfires, and the comforting presence of loved ones. This collection of four captivating books for young readers shines a light on the diverse ways we celebrate during this special time of year. (Discover more enchanting holiday book recommendations here!)
“We Celebrate the Light” by Jane Yolen and Heidi E.Y. Stemple, illustrated by Jieting Chen. (Ages 3-6. Rise x Penguin Workshop. $18.99.)
This joyful exploration illuminates seven winter holidays, shedding light on the unique traditions of various cultures and the worldwide symbol of light overcoming darkness. Jieting Chen’s illustrations positively radiate warmth, while the simple text captures heartwarming glimpses of families and friends celebrating Christmas, winter solstice, Bodhi Day, Hanukkah, Diwali, Kwanzaa, and Lunar New Year. A deeper dive awaits at the end of the book,offering more detailed insights into these cherished celebrations
How can parents use “We Celebrate the Light” to teach their children about cultural diversity?
Q&A: Illuminating the Holiday Season with Jane yolen and Heidi E.Y. Stemple’s “We celebrate the Light”
Editor at Time.news: Today,we have the pleasure of speaking with Jane Yolen and Heidi E.Y. Stemple, the talented authors of the delightful children’s book “We Celebrate the Light,” which explores the enchanting ways that various cultures celebrate during the winter season. Thank you both for joining us!
Q: What inspired you to create a book centered around the theme of light during the winter holidays?
Jane Yolen: The winter season can often feel dark and cold,both physically and metaphorically. we wanted to highlight the warmth and joy that comes from celebrating with family and friends. The theme of light overcoming darkness is prevalent in manny cultures, and it’s a worldwide message that resonates with everyone during this time of year.
Heidi E.Y. Stemple: Absolutely! We were inspired by the idea that,irrespective of our backgrounds,we all share the experience of gathering together to celebrate with light. It’s a way to bring readers from diverse cultures together and shed light on their unique traditions.
Q: Your book features seven different holidays. How did you select which celebrations to include?
Jane Yolen: We wanted to encompass a wide range of winter celebrations that exemplify the spirit of light. We focused on holidays that are not only significant but also beautifully illustrate the universal themes of joy, hope, and family connection. From Christmas and Hanukkah to Diwali and Lunar New Year, each holiday has its own traditions that celebrate light.
Heidi E.Y. Stemple: It was also vital for us to include celebrations that span a variety of cultures and regions. By showcasing these different holidays,we encourage young readers to embrace diversity and learn about the beautiful customs of their peers.
Q: What do you envision readers taking away from “We Celebrate the Light”?
Jane Yolen: We hope that readers, especially children, will come away with a sense of appreciation for various traditions and a deeper understanding of the world around them. It’s about fostering respect and curiosity for cultures different from their own.
Heidi E.Y. Stemple: And on a more personal level, we hope our book inspires families to create their own traditions of light during the winter season, whether that’s through reading the book together or exploring the different holiday practices highlighted within its pages.
Q: Can you elaborate on the illustrations in the book and their role in conveying the themes of your story?
Heidi E.Y. Stemple: the illustrations by Jieting chen truly bring our words to life. They radiate warmth and color, capturing the essence of each holiday beautifully. the imagery complements the narrative, creating an emotional and inviting experience for young readers.
Jane Yolen: The imagery serves as a bridge, helping to visualize the joy and party associated with each holiday, making it easier for children to connect with the content on a deeper level.
Q: For parents seeking to expand their children’s understanding of different cultures during the holiday season,what practical advice would you give?
Heidi E.Y. Stemple: Reading books like ”We Celebrate the Light” is a fantastic starting point. Encourage discussions around the holidays portrayed in the book,and consider participating in local celebrations or events that align with these traditions.
Jane Yolen: Absolutely! Engaging kids in hands-on activities—like crafting decorations for each holiday or cooking dishes associated with different celebrations—can also provide a fun, educational experience that solidifies their understanding and appreciation of diverse cultures.
Editor at Time.news: Thank you for sharing these insights! “We Celebrate the Light” not only offers an enchanting reading experience but also serves as a meaningful guide for families wanting to celebrate diversity this winter season. We look forward to seeing how your work continues to inspire families everywhere.