It's Holi!

The sisters-in-law and previous collaborators (Happy Diwali!) share a vibrant introduction to the Hindu spring festival of Holi in this experiential accounting that takes into account one child's sensory concerns. On morning, a child is awakened with a jubilant "it's Holi!" before eagerly preparing for the day. Straightforward text and simple dialogue balloons show the child admiring spring blooms with an elder ("I love color!"), donning a white kurta "so the colors can shine bright," and enjoying a variety of sweet and savory treats. When family and friends arrive, and water balloons and powders are set out, the child avoids the messy activity that follows: "Nooo... I don't want it on my face! What if it gets in my eyes?!" But quick thinking provides the youth with a pair of goggles, all the better to join in with a reprised "I love color!" Without delving deeply into the holiday, sparse text and action convey the happenings and hues of Holi. Back matter includes more about Holi and two recipes. Ages 4-8. (Feb.)

PreS-K--A family prepares for their Holi celebration by dressing in white, making delicious treats, and assembling water balloons and colored powders. One little family member confesses that although he loves colors, he is afraid of getting the powders in his eyes. A pair of swim goggles frees him to enjoy the festivities with enthusiasm. Thick outlines and vivid colors create a cheerful, celebratory vibe. The narration consists of no more than one or two sentences per page and makes use of a few Hindi words. Back matter includes an introduction to Holi, a glossary, a recipe, and instructions for making Holi powders. VERDICT A helpful preschool read-aloud to introduce the holiday, or to soothe kids who get nervous when group play has the potential for mess and chaos.--Rachel Owens