Soon, people around the world will be celebrating the start of a fresh, new year. Count down to 2024 with these fantastic picture books about New Year’s traditions across countries and cultures.
Shante Keys and the New Year’s Peas by Gail Piernas-Davenport, illustrated by Marion Eldridge
Shante’s grandmother is out of black-eyed peas — and the family always eats them on New Year’s Day for good luck! As Shante goes out to search for peas, she learns about her neighbors’ traditions and celebrations in this rhyming story.
The Lucky Grapes: A New Year’s Eve Story by Tracey Kyle, illustrated by Marina Astudillo
Rafa is impatient to count and eat the 12 perfect grapes his Tio brings for the family to share at the stroke of midnight. While kids wait along with Rafa, they’ll learn about New Year’s foods and traditions in Spain.
Freedom Soup, by Tami Charles, illustrated by Jacqueline Alcántara
Every year, Belle’s grandmother makes garlicky freedom soup for New Year’s. As Belle learns the recipe, Ti Gran tells her the story of how enslaved Haitians fought for their freedom, and how Haitians around the world continue to celebrate them.
Felíz New Year, Ava Gabriela! By Alexandra Alessandri, illustrated by Addy Rivera Sonda
Ava feels shy when she goes to visit her family in Colombia during the holidays. She quietly learns to feel comfortable as she helps her cousins make special treats and decorations for the New Year.
Every Month Is a New Year: Celebrations Around the World, by Marilyn Singer, illustrated by Susan L. Roth
Kids can learn about New Year’s traditions beyond January 1st with this book of poems beautifully illustrated with colorful collages.