Thank you for the e-ARC to read and review. This was a really beautifully illustrated look at festivities around the world, with a good amount of depth dedicated to explaining traditions, holidays, and some context surrounding diverse holidays. I think it was a bit long for a read-all-at-once style book, but definitely great as a reference or as a piece to break up into individual stories for kids as the year progresses and they're interested in learning more about a specific festivity!

Let’s Get Festive! Celebrations Around the World is an anthology that takes you around the world to find out how spring is celebrated in Japan, when the Jewish New Year is, what people wear to the Venice Carnival, and so much more! Discover the smells, tastes, sights, and unforgettable traditions of festivals from every season, filled with interesting facts and bold, bright illustrations.

This truly international collection includes celebrations and traditions such as Nowruz, Holi, Rosh Hashanah, Sogkran, Christmas, Hanukkah, Diwali, Eid Al-Adha, Carnival, Halloween, O-Bon, Thanksgiving, the Dragon Boat Festival, and Saint Patrick’s Day. It is a captivating volume for any (and every) bookshelf with opulent illustrations from Ewa Poklewska-Koziello.

Konczak’s writing is both informative and accessible, making it ideal for readers of all ages. Each chapter is dedicated to a different celebration, providing a rich tapestry of traditions, history and unique customs. The author skillfully weaves fascinating facts with colorful anecdotes, bringing each festival to life in a way that is both educational and entertaining.

The book’s design is also noteworthy, with stunning illustrations and photographs that capture the essence of each celebration. A feast for the eyes, this engaging exploration of global festivities offers young readers a delightful visual tour of cultural celebrations from diverse corners of the globe.

One of the book’s many strengths is its emphasis on cultural diversity and inclusivity. Konczak highlights how each festival reflects the values and heritage of its community, fostering a greater appreciation for global traditions. This approach not only educates readers, but also encourages a sense of global connection and respect. Whether it’s the vibrant parades of Carnival in Rio de Janeiro or the serene lanterns of Yi Peng in Thailand, Konczak’s attention to detail helps readers feel as though they are part of the festivities.

Let’s Get Festive! is more than just a travelogue of celebrations; it’s a joyous reminder of the universal love for festivity and tradition. It’s the perfect read for anyone interested in world cultures.

Loved this sweet collection from around the world. Perfect addition to early childhood classrooms, and I absolutely loved the bright beautiful illustrations.

This is an amazing work on the varied festivals around the world. I liked the tradition of 'Kupala Night', seems interesting. Basically, it is a Summer solstice day. Slavic villages of Soviet Union (today's Russia, Belarus, Poland and Ukraine) celebrating it as a festivity from around last 10 centuries. This is more like a tradition rather than festivity but with time becomes part of nomads' culture for who were residing in those areas.

Good to know that for facts the influence of India, more specifically Hinduism, acknowledged and accepted by people around the world now. The true way of Life need to be known to all in this world. China tried so much and used to claim earlier that Buddhism was their own religion that they want to take control on rather than appreciating the fact that it was something that made their fighting dynasties peaceful. Buddhism was introduced to China during the Han dynasty (206 BCE–220 CE) by monks and merchants from India. The earliest images of the Buddha in China were small portable images and drawings that were brought in by travelers along the Silk Roads. Nowruz, a festival of Zoroastrianism was celebrated by Persians all over the world. However, Persian were either brutally converted or killed in their native homeland of Iran and some of them fled and came to India and also spread rest of the world in different places as a result of religious persecution by Muslims. But, for facts, Persian community in India, stated few years back that the only place their community felt most safe in, since their migration, in only India.
Mid-Autumn Festival is also somewhere having inspiration from Indian Jataka Tales. The prominent appreciation which I would like to give it to author is for keeping her true knowledge for facts. Every festival or occasional celebration in different countries were explained very nicely. She had given the reference to Saka Era's Calendar but forgot about 'Vikram Samvat'. Songkran, a festival of Thailand, got its name from Sanskrit language.
This was the time when the influence of Hindu culture was spreaded from today's Indonesia to Turkey. Even today temple stones of Hindu God's Idols found from beneath the surface in excavations in Iran (2500 years old), Turkey (3200 years old), Europe (40000 years old Löwenmenschle & 28000 years old Phallus von Schelkingen), 28000 years old 'Kapla Vighara' from Tibet & Africa (5600 years old). The idol of Hindu god Vishnu found in Old Staraya Maina village dates back to VII-X century AD. Staraya Maina village in Ulyanovsk region (Russia) was a highly populated city 1700 years ago, much older than Kiev, so far believed to be the mother of all Russian cities. Egyptian scholar Mahomet Ali explained how their ancient civilization Gods were actually resemblance of Hindu culture and their few names were even derived from world's oldest language, Sanskrit. Ptah (an Egyptian god who was the creator of the world and a patron of craftsmen, especially sculptors) & Ma'at (goddess who embodies the principles of balance, order, justice, and law) both were pronounced and meant as same as Pita (Father) and Mata (Mother) of Hindi language.

Returning back to book, there was also a brief introduction to few country's Independence leading to their celebration days.
Though she had given a very connecting and balanced information to most of famous festivals but I wish if she would have written about "Dussehra", a festival of win of good over evil and "Rakshabandhan", world's only festival meant for brother and sister bond in which sister bind a lace on brother's wrist as a depiction of love and brother promises to keep her safe for whole of her life from every adversity.

I really liked this book and such collation of facts from all over the world which brings whole world on same platform deserves applaud.
Illustrations were so vibrant and full of colors. Illustrations were opulent and captivating. It was so better that Joanna didn't go for real-life pictures from the festivals else there might be controversies on why such picture is chosen and there could have been a better click. But those water-colored abstract drawings of the festivals' cheerfulness was so soothing.

For me it is 4.5/5.0

This colorfully illustrated book introduces children (and adults) to various holidays and celebrations around the world. From days commemorating certain people to religious holidays to days to various new year celebrations, Let's Get Festive! gives a great overview of the meaning behind the holiday as well as cultural practices surrounding the holiday. This book would be a great addition for a home or classroom library to learn more about holidays and other cultures.

I received an eARC of this book from the publisher via NetGalley. All opinions expressed in this review are my own.

Take a trip around the world, and join in the celebrations. Many are for religious regions, others commemorate the harvest, or the changing of the seasons. Nearly all involve lights, music, special foods, and gathering with family and friends.

The author goes into some detail describing the festivities, while Ewa Poklewska-Koziello's illustrations are bright, and, well . . . festive. A fun and enjoyable read.

Let’s Get Festive! Celebrations Around the World
Written by Joanna Konczak
Illustrated by Ewa Poklewska-Koziello

This book is stunning. Let’s Get Festive features holidays from all over the world in a wide variety of cultures and religions. Growing up in the melting pot of California I have heard of and celebrated many of the holidays, but was pleasantly surprised to find even more that I had never heard of before reading this book. I love the inclusion of Asian, Middle Eastern, South American, and European holidays.

The art work was stunning and the balance between words and pictures was pleasant. I love the bright colors, appropriate cultural dress, and diversity represented. The detail of the pictures will have you noticing something new every time you read. I can see this being a fun book to read a page at a time or as a deep dive into many holidays.

I would love to have a copy for each of my children’s classrooms. We need more representation and diversity in books. This book is a must for approachable non-fiction for upper elementary readers. I loved reading it and am grateful for Netgalley for sharing a digital copy with me.

Let's Get Festive! by Joanna Konczak is a delightful and vibrant exploration of cultural celebrations from around the globe. This beautifully illustrated book, featuring artwork by Ewa Poklewska-Koziello, offers readers an engaging journey through 36 different festivals and holidays, capturing the essence of each with rich visuals and fascinating facts.

The book is structured to take readers through the seasons, showcasing how various cultures celebrate key moments throughout the year. From the bright colors of Holi in India to the serene rituals of Rosh Hashanah, each celebration is presented with a focus on the unique traditions, foods, and attire that define them. The writing is clear and accessible, making it an excellent resource for young readers and adults alike who are curious about the diverse ways in which people around the world mark important occasions.

One of the standout features of Let's Get Festive! is its global perspective. Konczak has done an excellent job of selecting a wide range of celebrations that highlight the diversity of cultural practices across different continents. The book includes well-known holidays like Christmas and Halloween but also delves into less familiar celebrations such as Nowruz (Persian New Year) and Sogkran (Thai New Year), offering a broad view of global traditions.

The illustrations by Poklewska-Koziello are truly captivating. Each page is filled with vibrant colors and intricate details that bring the festivals to life. The artwork not only complements the text but also provides a visual feast that draws readers into the festive spirit of each celebration. The opulent illustrations make this book a joy to browse, whether you're reading it cover to cover or dipping in to learn about a specific holiday.

Let's Get Festive! is more than just an informational book; it’s a celebration of cultural diversity and the shared human experience of marking time through rituals and festivities. It's a perfect addition to any classroom or home library, offering both education and inspiration. The book invites readers to appreciate the rich tapestry of global cultures and perhaps even inspire them to participate in some of these celebrations themselves.
Let's Get Festive! is a must-read for anyone interested in learning about the world's many traditions and festivals. Whether you're a teacher looking for a resource to educate students about cultural diversity, a parent wanting to introduce your children to global traditions, or simply someone who loves learning about the world, this book offers something for everyone. With its informative content and stunning illustrations, it's a festive treasure trove that readers will want to revisit again and again.

Book Review: Let's Get Festive!: Celebrations Around the World by Joanna Kończak, Kate Webster (translator), Ewa Poklewska-Koziello (illustrator).

Rating: 5 Stars

I just finished Let's Get Festive!: Celebrations Around the World by Joanna Kończak, and I'm absolutely thrilled! This book is a delightful journey through 36 different celebrations from around the globe, and it's perfect for both kids and adults alike.

From the vibrant colors of Holi in India to the rich traditions of Rosh Hashanah, this anthology covers a wide range of festivities throughout the seasons. Each celebration is beautifully illustrated, allowing readers to feel the excitement and joy that comes with these special days. I found myself captivated by the descriptions of what people wear during events like the Venice Carnival and the delicious foods tied to each holiday.

The book starts with a brief introduction that sets the stage for what’s to come. Then, it dives into detailed explanations of each holiday, highlighting their religious and cultural significance along with historical context. I appreciated how it was written at a middle-grade level, making it perfect for curious younger readers, yet there were still plenty of insights that even adults can learn from.

The illustrations are simply stunning! They not only capture the spirit of each celebration but also provide a visual feast that enhances the reading experience. This book is great for older readers who want to explore different cultures or for younger children as a read-aloud option. I can easily see this book being a fantastic gift, especially for homeschooling families looking to introduce their kids to global traditions.

Overall, Let's Get Festive! is a captivating collection that brings the world’s celebrations right to your fingertips. I highly recommend it to anyone interested in exploring diverse cultures and festivities. It’s sure to become a cherished addition to any bookshelf!

⚠️This review was written based on personal opinions and experiences with the book. Individual preferences may vary⚠️

Sooo this is like an encyclopedia of festivities written in a way for children to understand. I love how it includes celebrations I've never heard of. This book will be better enjoyed in the physical form, not so much in the digital form. It's not like a bedtime stories book, but rather a book you read to/with kids to teach them about other cultures.

Thank you to NorthSouth Books Inc. and NetGalley for the eARC!

First off, this is the best, most comprehensive book of holidays I have seen to date. It contains nearly every holiday I could think of and so many I had never even heard of. I truly learned so much reading this book. I really appreciated how much research was put into each and every holiday, not just the main Christian ones. Passages were written with all the information you would need to understand the history of the holiday, while still keeping things engaging for students and young readers. The illustrations are beautiful, colorful, and charming! This is a must buy for any non-fiction collection!

The cover of this book invites the reader in. Here, kids can learn how others around the world enjoy special days. They can also read about their own family’s celebrations.

This title organizes holidays by type. There are entries for the New Year, Nature, Religious Holidays, Carnivals, days Noting the Dead, and others that mark the Memory of People and Important Events. There are also entries on Special Occasions.

Just some of the holidays covered include Rosh Hashanah, the New Yam Festival, Saint Jordan’s Day, Busojaras, Halloween, Saint Lucy’s Day and the Dragon Boat Festival. For each selection, there are colorful illustrations and information on the holiday.

The author notes that holidays bring people and communities together. This spirit comes through in this book.

This title belongs in home and school libraries. I recommend it.

Many thanks to NetGalley and NorthSouth Books for this title. All opinions are my own.

I was expecting a picture book, but this was so much more than that. The art style fits the festive vibe very much. I enjoyed it.

4 stars

I see it as a holiday a day or whatever and as a resource/reference for familiar and unfamiliar celebrations enjoyed by others or even a perspective on the ones known by the reader. The publisher's blurb does a good job as an intro.
Thanks to Kate Webster for translating from the Polish.
The illustrations by Ewa Poklewska-Koziello are brilliantly colorful, incredibly representative, clear, and fun!
Well suited for reading alone or WITH someone of any age including ESL, and great for gifting to anyone aged 4-110, but especially to a school or your public library!
I requested and received a free temporary e-book on Adobe Digital Editions from NorthSouth Books via NetGalley. Thank you!

Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for a review copy in exchange for a review.

I love reading books about holidays from around the world and I wanted to read this book because of that.


I would recommend this book for kids who want to learn more about how people around the world celebrate but I think people of all ages would love this book.

Let’s Get Festive is a beautiful illustrated book that highlights some of the many traditional celebrations around the world. The book provides a plethora of information and insight into different cultures and their traditions. Suitable for middle grade readers, Let’s Get Festive is sure to be an excellent reference books for many years. Five stars.

I was invited to read a DRC from NorthSouth Books through NetGalley. This review is completely my own and reflects my honest thoughts and opinions.

Holidays and celebrations from around the world are described in this detailed and diverse informational book. For example, New Year celebrations from various countries are described, including sections on Nowruz (the Persian New Year holiday), Chinese New Year, Songkran in Thailand, and Rosh Hashanah. Readers will often see similarities in celebrations across a wide array of cultures. The full color cartoon artwork, which appears to be done using gouache, features ethnically diverse people, often wearing traditional clothing specific to certain countries. Readers will find this very useful for school reports due to the detail on each holiday, although there is nothing on some American holidays such as Martin Luther King, Jr. Day or Labor Day. Originally published in Poland in 2023.

This is such a great book to learn about all the wonderful celebrations around the world. I've always loved learning about different cultures and celebrations.

This book talks about the difference celebrations and events, how they are celebrated and the origin behind them. I found this to be a bit long for children. Each celebration that is highlighted has a lot of information about them, which is great except for the fact that it's just a bit too long for children.

What a wonderful resource! The author gives so much information in child friendly language and the graphics are engaging as well! My only wish is that there were less words- my young readers tend to get overwhelmed by pages that look wordy and while the information is so interesting, I fear many readers will be discouraged.

Very informative about the many holidays. Too many words for my daughter to digest. I wish it was in bite size pieces to better talk through the content with her. Bright colors and fun illustrations. I received an advance review copy for free via Netgalley and I am leaving this review voluntarily.