![\"image](\"https:\/\/www.jewishindependent.ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/jan-26-book-fest.26.Ho-Two-New-Years-cover.png\")
<\/a>Ho has several kids books to his credit and, according to his website, more on the way. Two New Years<\/i> highlights the differences and similarities between Rosh Hashanah and the Lunar New Year, both of which he celebrates.<\/p>\nThe book notes the differences first: Rosh Hashanah takes place in the fall, is based on the Jewish calendar and began in the Middle East, and the Lunar New Year generally falls in spring, is based on the Chinese calendar and began in East Asia. \u201cThey represent different peoples with different histories, cultures and traditions,\u201d he writes. \u201cBut in many ways they are also alike.\u201d The many similarities include that each holiday is a chance to \u201ctry on new beginnings,\u201d to \u201cbring family home\u201d and \u201cremember the ancestors who live in our hearts,\u201d to eat \u201cfoods that symbolize togetherness and the heartfelt sharing of good wishes,\u201d among several other things.<\/p>\n
In the author\u2019s note, Ho shares that he converted to Judaism as an adult and that \u201cthe blending of two cultures was a conscious choice\u201d for him. These days, he revels in experiencing both new years through the eyes of his children. \u201cThe best part?\u201d he asks. \u201cThey\u2019re not alone! All over the world, families with mixed backgrounds are blurring the barriers between cultures and customs. With the guidance of parents, grandparents and extended family on all sides, many children are weaving an increasingly diverse tapestry of celebration.\u201d<\/p>\n
The book features an eight-page illustrated glossary that\u2019s as interesting to read as the story: it explains what a lunisolar calendar is, and some of both holidays\u2019 rituals and symbols. It is followed by questions that readers can use to facilitate a discussion with others about their own traditions.<\/p>\n