You know what I find mind boggling? The fact that my 4th grader doesn't study the subject of history or social studies. Seriously, how is that possible? They may learn a few facts here and there but it's a subject that seems to be largely ignored. I remember being in first grade and learning this stuff! I mean, my favorite teacher that year used to make us learn how to say good morning in another language every month yet my child learns none of this. I blame the ridiculous Common Core bullcrap for this. Kids need to immerse themselves just a little bit into other cultures. Luckily, there are a few subscription boxes out there that help with that very thing. Today I'm talking about Culture Chest!
Culture Chest, who very kindly sent me this box for review, is a monthly children's subscription service geared for children between 3-8. The cost is $25 per month and Each box will include 1-2 Paperback books and 1 activity. I love the entire idea behind this box because it's such a great tool to let kids explore a variety of cultures in a fun, hands on way.
The November box revolves around the Native American culture. While you would normally receive activities/snacks that tie into the theme, Culture Chest decided to upgrade to a hardcover book in place of those items this time. The December box will revert back to the normal version.
Thunder Boy Jr. by Sherman Alexie. Illustrated by Yuyi Morales --- My son knew about this book and was really excited to see it! Here's the synopsis from Amazon:
"Thunder Boy Jr. is named after his dad, but he wants a name that's all his own. Just because people call his dad Big Thunder doesn't mean he wants to be Little Thunder. He wants a name that celebrates something cool he's done, like Touch the Clouds, Not Afraid of Ten Thousand Teeth, or Full of Wonder.
But just when Thunder Boy Jr. thinks all hope is lost, he and his dad pick the perfect name...a name that is sure to light up the sky.
National Book Award-winner Sherman Alexie's lyrical text and Caldecott Honor-winner Yuyi Morales's striking and beautiful illustrations celebrate the special relationship between father and son. "
Aren't the illustrations so lovely? I love the style and the shading of them.
How The Stars Fell Into The Sky by Jerrie Oughton Illustrated by Lisa Desimini --- Oddly enough, I recall this book from my own childhood. Here the synopsis from Amazon:
"This retelling of a Navajo folktale explains how First Woman tried to write the laws of the land using stars in the sky, only to be thwarted by the trickster Coyote."
Another example of truly beautiful illustrations with this book as well!
I think this was just a fantastic box! My son and I really enjoyed reading both of the books together. They were perfect choices for the November theme and I can't wait to see what the next box will hold and what new culture we get to explore!
Thoughts on Culture Chest? Share with us!
Disclosure: While this box was received complimentary in exchange for a review, it is honest and unbiased. All opinions expressed are solely my own.
This post first appeared on DixieDollsGlow - Subscription Box News & Reviews, please read the originial post: here
