This book for children describes and explains the African American celebration, Kwanzaa. The book describes how Maulana Karenga, an African-American teacher, started the custom in 1966 in order to teach African Americans about their history and about African customs. The text briefly reviews the history of enslavement of blacks since before the Revolutionary War and the conditions of African American life in the United States. The book explains Marcus Garvey's creation of the red, black, and green bendera flag. In describing the celebration of Kwanzaa, the text and pictures explain the days of celebration and the symbols of woven placemat, cup, fruits and vegetables, corn, candles, a special candle holder, and gifts. The text then discusses the seven principles of Kwanzaa, one for each day of the holiday period: Umoja (Unity), Kujichagulia (Self-Determination), Ujima (Collective Work and Responsibility), Ujamaa (Cooperative Economics), Nia (Purpose), Kuumba (Creativity), and Imani (Faith). Also included are a list of the things necessary to celebrate Kwanzaa and a glossary and pronunciation guide to key Swahili terms used in Kwanzaa celebrations. (JB)