Celebrate 50 Years of Kwanzaa: Books for Kids

Share in the 50th annual celebration of Kwanzaa! Created in 1966 by Dr. Maulana Karenga, Kwanzaa celebrates family, culture and heritage. While it is rooted in African traditions, all people are invited to join in.

Kwanzaa starts on December 26 and lasts for seven days, one for each of the Nguzo Saba ("seven principles" in Swahili). Learn more about Kwanzaa and how to include it in your own holiday fun with these great books.

The Gifts of Kwanzaa is a good first look at Kwanzaa's symbols and principles. The artist, Synthia Saint James, designed the first Kwanzaa stamp issued by the United States Postal Service in 1997 as well as the 50th anniversary Kwanzaa stamp.

In Seven Spools of Thread, seven Ashanti brothers must stop arguing and start working as a team to honor their father's last wishes. This original folktale shows how the brothers live out the seven principles of Kwanzaa.

Jump into the joyful story of the holiday in Seven Candles for Kwanzaa. Explore how each day of Kwanzaa touches on tradition, family and community. This title is great for the whole family to read together.

How will you celebrate with your family this holiday season?