November and December are months of big celebrations for lots of faiths and cultures around the world…
Diwali takes place on the 1st November. Simultaneous, Dia de Los Muertos takes place across Mexico combining Catholic traditions and Aztec roots. This year, Hanukkah begins in December as well as Christmas on the 25th. Not to mention many others!
Celebrating other people’s religions and beliefs, particularly in school, helps to create a strong foundation of respect, empathy and tolerance. Inter Faith Week also falls during this time, 10-17th November.
The Inter Faith Week website has lots of wonderful ideas on how to mark this important week – click here to read all about them. We also think sharing books about celebrations is an important part of building relationships between communities. Reading fosters a natural and supportive curiosity about the world and the people in it.
So, let’s look at some great book options to share with your class during Inter Faith Week and beyond.
Hats of Faith by Medeia Cohan-Petrolino and Sarah Walsh.
Age range: EYFS
An easy introduction to different faiths around the world, exploring how many use head coverings as part of their traditions and customs. It features authentic terminology and phonetic pronunciation, so you can have open discussions with your class and know you’re getting it right.
Golden Domes and Silver Lanterns: A Muslim Book of Colors by Hena Khan and Mehrdokht Amini.
Age range: EYFS/KS1
A beautifully illustrated book that gently explores the Muslim faith through colour.
Luna Loves Christmas by Joseph Coelho and Fiona Lumbers.
Age range: KS1
We are big Joseph Coelho and Fiona Lumbers fans already, so we knew we would love this installment in the Luna series! With their trademark soft and warm illustrations and gentle family stories, it will be a winner with your class
Age range: KS1/KS2
We love an anthology, and this one does not disappoint! From well-known festivals, to more obscure and amusing ones. There will be something in here for all the children in your class.
The Great Henna Party by Humera Malik and Sonali Zohra.
Age range: LKS2
A beautiful story about love and the traditions of henna. This is a sweet story with a loving message about family.
Age range: KS2
A wonderful collection of poetry about celebrations around the world. From the Tomato Festival to Eid, there’s lots to explore!
All About Hanukkah: Things to Make and Do by Shoshana Boyd Gelfand and Kathryn Selbert.
Age range: KS2
Beautiful illustrations coupled with recipes and activities to do during Hanukkah, we love this book!
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