Denise Burden-Patmon

I had mixed feelings about this book after reading it. I liked the book because of the multicultural importance to the readers. The book also used important language that was clear but meaningful to the subject of Kwanzaa. But I didn't like this book because I didn't find the plot to be clear of entertaining. I believe that the story will not transfer to student engagement in the book. The message of the story is the importance of family and culture, which is important for all students to appreciate.… (meer)

This was a great book for two reasons. First, the plot of "Imani's Gift At Kwanzaa" teaches about the holiday of Kwanzaa and the seven principles that the holiday symbolizes. Kwanzaa is one of the least talked about holidays so this is an entertaining book that can bring culture to the classroom or home. I also enjoyed this book because the characters are realistic and teach valuable lessons. The main character Imani learns the meaning of her name is Unity and her actions toward a friend in the story reflect the meaning. Imani welcomes an unwanted friend into her family celebration of Kwanzaa against her wishes because this is the true meaning of the holiday. The overall message of "Imani's Gift at Kwanzaa" is one of unity.… (meer)

This book is about a girl named Imani. She lives with her grandmother and they are about to celebrate Kwanzaa. They are having friend and family over to dinner and helping them celebrate the night. One girl named Enna doesn't know about it. She always makes funny of Imani. Imani doesn't like gettingmad funny of so she tell her grandmother. Her grandmother then tell her to have Enna something to help her undertsand what they are celebrating. So that is what Imani does and Enna just like the gift and the girls just giggles the night away.

Personal reaction
i enjoyed reading the book and think that this book is good for the grades second, third, and fourth.

Extension Ideas
1. Have the students draw a paper doll of themselves and place it in the classroom.
2. Have the students make friends with other students that they usually don't talk too.… (meer)

This book is about a girl that is having to live with aunt and uncle in New York. She isn't used to the lond noises and doesn't like it there. When they are having a big parade she get to be in it. In the Carnval she gets to play with the band and really enjoyed it.

Personal reaction
I really enjoyed the book. It kinda of remember me when I went to jamaica and I got to see how they celebrated the different things. This book is really good for second, third, and four grades.

Extension ideas
1. Have the students share something that they celebrate with there families and draw about it.
2. Have the students create our own carnival in the classroom.… (meer)