K IS FOR KWANZAA

Ford uses each letter of the alphabet to illustrate an aspect of Kwanzaa, in a mix of English and non-English words; phonetic pronunciations are provided for non-English words, but not the language or country of origin. To the familiar—``A is for Africa'' and ``C is for candle''—Ford adds ``L is for lapa'' (a broad piece of cloth that African women wear) and ``M is for Mkeka'' (a special mat for the holiday table). Wilson-Max works with flat, simple shapes boldly outlined in black; these are cheerful and informative, with festive scenes of participants gathering to celebrate the principles of Kwanzaa. Other books cover the holiday more thoroughly, but this is certainly a charming and accessible beginning. (Picture book. 5-7)