Festival of Colors and Other Stories: A World of Stories for Children

By Coledown Wells

Embark on a captivating journey around the world with Festival of Colors, a delightful collection of fourteen short stories for children. Each tale introduces young readers to the rich tapestry of global cultures, fostering an appreciation for diversity and promoting understanding.

In "Festival of Colors," children will join Raj and Maya in India as they discover the joyous celebration of Holi, exploring the significance of colors and unity. Travel to China with Li and Mei, experiencing the magic of lantern-making and the importance of illuminating dreams in "The Lantern Parade."

Jamal takes readers to Africa in "The Drummer's Rhythm," where the power of traditional drums brings communities together during festive occasions. In "Konnichiwa, Sakura!," Sakura learns about Hanami and the beauty of cherry blossoms, embracing the cultural significance of fleeting moments in Japan.

"Matsuri Magic in Japan" invites children to join Hiro and Yuki in a traditional Japanese Matsuri, featuring street parades, vibrant costumes, and delicious street food. Meanwhile, in "The Irish Leprechaun's Lesson," Aiden discovers the enchanting world of Irish folklore, shamrocks, and the significance of storytelling.

From the lively Mexican Piñata Fiesta with Miguel and Isabella to the Festival of Lights in "Diwali Delights" with Aisha and Arjun, each story unfolds a unique cultural experience. "African Safari Tales" takes readers on a safari with Zoe and Malik, introducing them to diverse wildlife and the rich cultural heritage of African tribes.

"Nava​jo Dreamcatcher" shares the art of making dreamcatchers with siblings Naya and Kaya, while "Aussie Outback Adventure" with Jack and Emily explores Aboriginal traditions, Dreamtime stories, and the importance of respecting the land. Delve into Russian culture with Sasha and Ivan in "Russian Nesting Dolls," discovering the symbolism of Matryoshka dolls and the layers of interconnectedness within family, join Abebe on his coffee bean quest and discover the special bond between Leif and a lost puffling in "Puffling's Big Adventure".

Festival of Colors is a heartwarming and educational collection that invites children to celebrate the beauty of diversity, fostering a sense of unity and understanding in the world. Each story is a vibrant tapestry, weaving together cultural exploration and valuable life lessons in an enchanting and accessible manner. Whether read alone, shared at bedtime, or embraced as a multicultural classroom resource, Festival of Colors sparks the imaginations of young readers and encourages a deep appreciation for the beauty found in our shared human experiences. Celebrate the richness of cultural diversity and family heritage with this enchanting collection that transcends borders and opens windows to the vast wonders of the world.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Coledown Wells
• Release date: Dec 10, 2023
• ISBN: 9798223065753

Book preview

Festival of Colors

In the beautiful Indian city of Jodhpur, where dusty streets bore witness to countless tales, lived two inseparable friends named Raj and Maya. Their days were filled with laughter, curiosity, and the boundless spirit of adventure. However, one magical event held a special place in their hearts – the Festival of Colors, also known as Holi.

As winter reluctantly withdrew, the air in Jodhpur became infused with a sense of anticipation. The date for the Festival of Colors approached, and the entire city buzzed with excitement. Raj and Maya, their eyes gleaming with anticipation, could hardly wait to immerse themselves in the kaleidoscope of hues that Holi promised.

The festival arrived like a burst of sunshine after a stormy night. The streets were lined with vendors selling vibrant powders, and the scent of sweet delicacies wafted through the air. It was a time when the town united under the colorful umbrella of Holi.

As the morning sun painted the sky with hues of pink and orange, Raj and Maya joined the procession, their hearts pounding with exhilaration. The air was soon filled with the rhythmic beat of drums, and the city transformed into a canvas of unrestrained joy.

Their journey into the festival began with the elders narrating the ancient tales behind Holi. The significance of colors unfolded before Raj and Maya like a storybook coming to life. Each color, they learned, carried a unique meaning – red symbolized love and fertility, yellow represented the sun's warmth, and blue stood for the divine.

With newfound knowledge, the duo dove headfirst into the sea of colors. Raj smeared Maya's face with a burst of red, and in return, Maya showered him with a cascade of yellow. Laughter echoed through the streets as the town transformed into a living, breathing masterpiece.

Amidst the jubilation, an elderly woman approached Raj and Maya, her eyes sparkling with wisdom. She spoke of unity, explaining how Holi dissolved barriers and brought people together in a kaleidoscope of harmony. Raj and Maya listened intently, their hearts resonating with the profound message.

As the day unfolded, the city became a melting pot of cultures and backgrounds. People of all ages, castes, and creeds danced and laughed, their differences overshadowed by the shared joy of Holi. Raj and Maya, with their faces painted in myriad colors, felt a sense of oneness with everyone around them.

The climax of the festival arrived with the grand bonfire – a symbolic ritual of burning away negativity and embracing the purity of heart. Raj and Maya, surrounded by the crackling flames and illuminated faces, felt a deep sense of renewal. The fiery embers reflected the burning passion for unity that Holi had instilled in their young hearts.

As the night sky draped the city in a blanket of darkness, Raj and Maya sat by the dying embers, their faces still aglow with the remnants of colors. The echoes of laughter lingered in the air, and the city slept under the watchful eyes of a thousand stars.

The next morning, as the first rays of dawn painted the horizon, Raj and Maya woke up to find the city transformed. Colors adorned every corner, and the vibrant tapestry of Holi lingered in the air. The festival had come to an end, but its spirit continued to weave its magic in the heart of the city.

Raj and Maya, forever changed by their journey into the Festival of Colors, understood that Holi was more than just a celebration; it