Easter

PreS-Gr 2–Readers follow Sam and his Christian family through the holy days and weeks preceding Easter. Sam has an older brother and younger twin sisters. While there is no mention or appearance of Sam’s mother in the work, Dad and his parents are very present and involved with Sam and his siblings. As Sam explains the different holy days, readers see what his siblings give up for Lent as well as them making cookies and dyeing Easter eggs. During the final week before Easter, Sam’s grandparents visit and help with final (and tasty) preparations. The text is written with explanations included; one need not be Christian to understand. However, both author and illustrator live in the UK, and U.S. parish practices may vary from what is presented in the text. Sister Rosie appears to use a hearing aid or other apparatus. The family presents white, and the supporting cast is diverse; the bunny cookies are made with dark brown dough. Randall’s illustrations are cheerful and befitting the spring backdrop. The work concludes with pages of information about celebrations around the world, activities, recipes, and a quiz.