Published by Neal Porter Books

Summary:  In a “This is the house that Jack built” cumulative style, the author recounts the steps necessary to get the poi for the family’s (‘ohana’s) lu’au.  The poi comes from the kalo plant, which is the starting point for the verse.  From there, the narrative moves outward to the mud that the plant grows in, the “land that has never been sold”, the stream that waters it, the sun, and the wind.  The final lines include the ‘ohana that gives thanks for all of the elements that have created the food for their lu’au.  Includes notes about kalo, poi, and ‘ohana as well as a glossary.  40 pages; ages 4-8.

Pros:  A fascinating introduction to native Hawaiian culture.  The illustrations are spectacular and will make you want to be on the beach eating poi with this ‘ohana.  The back matter helps readers understand what is going on in the story.

Cons:  Since I’m sure many readers have as little knowledge of Hawaiian culture as I do, it would have been helpful to have some explanation on each page of what was going on, rather than having it all at the end.

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Published by Lee and Low Books (Released May 5)

Summary:  Two girls from a Lenni Lenape tribe, Traditional Sister and Contemporary Sister describe their lives with their families through the course of one year.  Each illustration has the name of a moon, with the Lenape name on the left and the English name on the right.  The Traditional Sister and her family are portrayed on the left of each illustration and the Contemporary family on the right, showing them as they move through the seasons, growing and harvesting crops.  The last few pages give additional information on the history of the Lenni Lenape people, who lived in what is now the Mid-Atlantic states, as well as some of the cultural features portrayed in the book.  32 pages; ages 4-8.

Pros:  This beautifully illustrated book portrays the Lenni Lenape culture as vibrant and living, tying the past to the present.  Readers will be able to connect with many of the activities the Contemporary Sister describes, while learning more about the Lenape history and culture.

Cons:  The format of the two families being portrayed side by side may be a little confusing to younger kids.

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