Joanna Ponto

Columbus Day might seem like just another day off from school, but every year we remember Columbus's important contributions to our nation. Today Columbus's journey to the West Indies is celebrated in a variety of ways, including parades, reenactments, and Italian-American festivals. Readers can learn about the holiday's history and significance, in addition to following a blue corn cake recipe and making a boat craft from a walnut shell and clay....

Thanksgiving is one of the most traditional holidays celebrated in America. We associate the day with turkey, football, and family. Many students might not know that even though the holiday celebrates a harvest feast that supposedly took place in the seventeenth century, Thanksgiving was not declared a federal holiday until 1941. This resource will tell young readers all they need to know about Thanksgiving, in addition to providing a recipe for cranberry...

Young readers will learn how Jews in the United States and abroad celebrate Hanukkah, an eight-day commemoration of the Maccabean rebellion, when a lamp with enough oil to last only one day burned for eight days and nights. This simple yet engaging book also provides instructions on how to make a dreidel and play the game as well as a recipe for applesauce to enjoy over latkes, roast chicken, or just on its own.

Diwali is an important holiday in the Hindu tradition. It celebrates the triumph of light over darkness, of good over evil, and of hope over despair. How did this holiday begin? How is it celebrated? Learn all about the history and customs of Diwali.

What does it mean to be a good citizen? Full-page, color photographs accompany real-life examples of good citizenship that young readers will understand, relate to, and be inspired by.

"Describes the history and traditions of Earth Day, including a craft and recipe"--Provided by publisher.

"Describes the origins of the United States of America's Independence, and how it's celebrated throughout history and across the country"--

Students will explore the planets, stars, moon, and other celestial bodies as they create ten astronomy-related projects, including a mobile depicting the lunar phases, a watercolor painting of the Great Bear constellation, and a North Star finder. Simple step-by-step directions accompanied by images let students learn about the science of space as they build the essential skills of investigation, planning, and making projects. The book also provides...

"Provides character education through different scenarios that demonstrate children being respectful"--

Explains what Cinco de Mayo is and why it is celebrated.