Mexican Independence Day and Cinco de Mayo

* Reviews *

This revised and updated book explores the rich history of Mexicos Independence Day and the annual Cinco de Mayo celebration. After a brief introduction to the country and culture, readers learn about the battle between Spain and Mexico and Father Miguel Hidalgos call for independence in 1810. In 1821, Mexicans finally won their freedom, and the holiday is a reminder of that important day. The book tells about the special foods, clothing and celebrations that surround Mexican Independence Day. Then readers move on to the civil wars that erupted in Mexico and the continuous struggles for land and freedom against the United States and France. Cinco de Mayo arrives with color and pizzazz as a remembrance of the victory over the French at the Battle of Puebla. The book is very informative and fairly interesting, but you wouldnt know that from looking at it. They say we should never judge a book by its cover, but my 4-year-old niece tossed the book aside after seeing the extremely dated-looking turquoise and hot pink cover. I had to agree with her—it makes the book look boring and decades old. There is some useful information included at the end, including a glossary, a reading list, a list of Internet addresses for further study and an index. This book is part of Enslows Best Holiday Books series, which includes titles about Kwanzaa, Mardi Gras, and Ramadan and Id-al-Fitr., Children's Literature