Groundhog Day

Let's See Library: Holidays

by Marc Tyler Nobleman, Brenda Haugen (Editor), Christianne Jones (Editor)

Nobleman, Marc Tyler

Genres: Nonfiction, Holiday, Animals, Childrens

24 pages, Library Binding

First published September 1, 2004

About the author

Award-winning author of books for all ages, including one that changed history and inspired the first documentary based on a nonfiction picture book.

I've had the privilege of speaking at schools and conferences in 30+ states and almost 20 countries.

Reviews

[Celia Buell · Rating 4 out of 5]

When I was little, about 4-6, I was obsessed with a documentary about groundhog day. I don't remember anything about the actual content of the video, but this book gives off similar vibes. It is very informational with fairly dense text as is typical of the "Let's See Library" holiday books from Compass Point press.

I like how much this details various traditions and origins of Groundhog Day that come from Europe. Although these are by no means the sole focus of the book, I appreciate that there are a few pages dedicated to the origins and why the groundhog is the US's symbol of the seasons change (because of the lack of bears, badgers, or hedgehogs to be found when German settlers came to the US) and how this was influenced by various traditions from different parts of Europe. In teaching these "silly" holidays, it's so important to teach the origins.

I would say that this book would be best for older students to read on their own, but could also work as a read-aloud for younger kids, or even alongside a content video about the holiday.

*Read for: Children's Book group (Picture Book Club) - February 2023 Holidays Scavenger Hunt - Groundhog's Day

[Dolly · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is a very simple book on Groundhog day that covers many topics briefly, one topic per page. On the opposite pages are big (mostly) color photographs that help illustrate each topic. The book covers information regarding groundhogs themselves, as well as the origin and history of Groundhog Day celebrations with a focus on the events in Punxsutawney, PA. It's a quick read and is appropriate for children in preschool through first or second grade. Our girls enjoyed this book, especially the pictures.