Pijo and Penda: A Story About a Bulgarian Springtime Tradition

Spring is almost here! Ms. Tina’s class is ready to celebrate by creating and exchanging special little ornaments made out of red and white yarn with their friends and family.

As the children learn to make two little martenitsas—Pijo and Penda—Ms. Tina teaches them about the ancient Bulgarian tradition surrounding the ornaments, the meaning behind Baba Marta and the ornament colors, and why people wish for spring. Soon, the children craft beautiful ornaments that they use the next day to celebrate the upcoming spring as a symbol of new beginning and harmony between nature and people, and wish each other happiness, good luck, and great health. Now the children know the tradition of the martenitsa, so they can practice it every year!

This charming book teaches young students about a Bulgarian springtime tradition and it is a great tool to help children understand and embrace other cultures.