Exploring one’s roots and understanding cultural heritage is crucial in today’s global society. In fact, it’s necessary for younger generations as they are responsible for upholding cultural values.
Children’s books play a key role in their exploration, offering stories rich with cultural lessons. Among such books is What’s a Yiayia? emerges as a notable example, blending storytelling with cultural education.
This book by Elane Fees shares an innocent story about a young girl named Little Eva and her Greek grandmother, Yiayia. Influenced by Fees’ Greek and Lithuanian heritage, the book provides a distinctive peek into Greek culture and the cherished relationship between grandparents and grandchildren.
Family and Yiayia
The book highlights the deep family connections central to Greek culture. It focuses on Greek values, such as the special bond between Little Eva and her grandmother, Yiayia.
The book specifies that in Greek culture, Yiayias are more than grandmothers. They are teachers of tradition and love. The book shows how Yiayias pass down cultural values and wisdom to their grandchildren.
Readers see Yiayia’s role in nurturing and educating Little Eva throughout the story. It shows how these relationships are crucial in shaping a child’s understanding of their heritage and identity.
Practices Through Storytelling
Fees’ book is a journey into Greek culture. The book introduces young readers to Greek traditions through Little Eva’s adventures with her Yiayia. Activities like cooking Greek food and learning crafts become fun lessons in cultural heritage.
Each page of the book turns into an engaging and educational experience. It invites children to learn about a new culture. And teaches them about diversity and tradition in an enjoyable and accessible way.
Value of What’s a Yiayia?
The book is a tool for connecting generations. The story of Little Eva and her Yiayia helps families, especially those with Greek backgrounds, stay in touch with their heritage. It encourages necessary habits such as sharing and learning while teaching kids to value their family heritage.
This book is particularly relatable for Greek families living abroad. However, its lessons are universal. It helps readers maintain a strong link to their cultural identity and roots. Moreover, it sparks conversations about heritage and family history between children and older relatives.
Conclusion
What’s a Yiayia? by Elane Fees teaches important lessons about family and heritage. Through Little Eva and her Yiayia, the book shows how traditions shape who we are. It’s a helpful story to teach kids the family and cultural values. What makes this book effective is the light-hearted narrative and colorful illustrations, which can engage toddlers as young as 3 years old. The book’s main message is clear: understanding and embracing your origins is necessary. It’s a fun and meaningful way for readers to learn about Greek culture and think about their family traditions.
What’s a Yiayia? by Elane Fees is now available online so families and schools can teach kids the value of older relatives. You can also give a read to her first book The Magic Gumball Tree. Elane’s story is as a touching tribute on the profound connection and magical love shared between father and daughter.
Visit: www.elanefees.com
Published By: Aize Perez
