| About the Book | |||
First Star by Berndetta Swigut is named for the custom of waiting until the first star appears in the night sky before beginning the celebration of Christmas Eve, or Wigilia. Told from the childs point of view, it explains the meaning behindMoreFirst Star by Berndetta Swigut is named for the custom of waiting until the first star appears in the night sky before beginning the celebration of Christmas Eve, or Wigilia. Told from the childs point of view, it explains the meaning behind the traditions. Grandmother, or Babcia, explains that an extra place is set at the dinner table in case an unexpected hungry visitor should came. Then there is a charming ceremony of family members sharing their oplatek ( a special bread ) with each other while exchanging good wishes. The illustrations are worth examining carefully. Both Polish and American heroes and heroines can be found decorating the pages. Author and illustrator Bernadetta Swigut dedicates the book to all Polish children, but it is a book for everyone who appreciates the value of tradition and family.(Polish,Lithuanian, Slovakian Christmas OPLATEK custom) | |||
