Mar25
Monthly Archives: March 2016
Mar18
Catherine’s Pascha by Charlotte Riggle
Today’s pick for Perfect Picture Book Friday is Catherine’s Pascha – A Celebration of Easter in the Orthodox Church
Written by: Charlotte Riggle
Illustrated by: R. J. Hughes
Publisher: Phoenix Flair Press (2015)
Suitable for ages: 6 and up
Themes/Topics: Pascha (Easter), Orthodox Christian Easter, Eastern Orthodox Church, religious celebrations, religious diversity, cultures from around the world
Brief Synopsis: Through the eyes of a young girl named Catherine, readers learn about Pascha [PAH-ska], the Orthodox Christian Easter service celebrated in communities around the world. Catherine is determined to stay awake on Holy Saturday this year so she can experience the Pascha (Easter) service at her church. In beginning of the story, while Catherine naps, the family is busy with preparations for the feast that follows the service on Easter Sunday. After they leave for the service, the author takes us inside the church to experience the details of this special celebration. The illustrations show different churches from around the world, in all seven continents, where Pascha has been celebrated – yes, even in Antarctica!
In addition to the story, the author includes back matter, a glossary and Frequently Asked Questions pages for easy reference.
Opening pages: Mom says I have to go to bed at my regular time, even though it’s Holy Saturday.
“But, Mom!” I say. “It’s going to be time to get up in just a little while!”
“All the more reason for you to get a little nap,” she says, and she turns off the light.
Well, Mom can make me go to bed, but she can’t make me go to sleep. I’m going to stay awake until it’s time to go to church.”
Why I like this book: Catherine’s Pascha is a lovely story packed with details about a special annual event still celebrated today. Children will certainly identify with the child centered character of Catherine the author created. Given I was raised Roman Catholic, this story brought back many memories of Christmas midnight mass, including the excitement of wanting to stay awake. Although our Easter was celebrated in a daytime service, just as Catherine and her family, we celebrated Easter by wearing new clothing, and eating special food after fasting for Lent.
This story would be a good addition to any collection of books on world religions, Orthodox traditions, and Orthodox Pascha (Easter).
Resources:
See the Charlotte Riggle’s website which is filled with further reading, resources, activities, and more.
Listen to Charlotte Riggle’s interview by Bobby Maddex with Ancient Faith Ministries podcast.
Check out author Susanna’s Hill’s Perfect Picture Book page here to read more of today’s book reviews.
Happy Reading!
Mar17
Happy St. Patrick’s Day
Gimme some sugar, ma chérie.
You know who I am, the New Orleans baby.
It’s St. Patrick’s Day, I’m part Irish too, kiss me!
Mar6
Love Hugs by Keila V. Dawson
What writer doesn’t like a challenge? In honor of Theodore Geisel, better known as Dr. Seuss, fellow author Vivian Kirkfield (SWEET DREAMS, SARAH; Creston Books, 2017) is sponsoring a 50 Precious Words Contest. Everyone adores his gift for storytelling and word choice. The challenge is to write a story using only 50 words. See this post on her blog, Picture Books Help Kids Soar, for more details. And yes, there are prizes.
I wrote LOVE HUGS, a 49 word story. Hope you enjoy!
LOVE HUGS
by Keila V. Dawson
Would you like a hug goodnight?
Not tonight, I’m alright.
Would you like one when you’re sad?
Not when sad. Not when mad.
Would you like one for good-bye?
Not for good-bye. Not if I cry.
Would you stop me if I do?
Not at all, I’d like two!
Mar4
Women’s History Month
Anyone celebrating Women’s History Month should take a look at the blog post here from Kid World Citizen. It’s an international celebration of women around the world! Link your titles to her blog.
There are so many wonderful children’s books, including picture book biographies about women and the contributions they have made to our nation and the world. This list happens to feature female scientists.
When I think my mother was born the same year women gained the right to vote in the United States, I really do think, “We’ve come a long way baby!”
