These books will
also further a spirit of friendliness and good will for children
of other nationalities. Respect for and an understanding of the
life and customs of other races, are not only educationally
valuable, but are fundamentally important in this "crucible of
nations," where different races are fusing themselves together as
never before in the history of the world. Tradition is a precious
heritage, and the traditions of other nations should be the
natural inheritance of the American child, since here as nowhere
else all the nations of the earth are entering into our national
life.
The author has recognized from the start that the purpose of a
book of this kind would fail of realization if the narrative does
not appeal strongly to children. The delight with which the book
has been received by children is evidence that the important
element of interest has not been left out of the narrative.
To make the reading of this story most valuable as a school
exercise, it is suggested that children be allowed at the outset
to turn the pages of the book in order to get glimpses of "Kit"
and "Kat," in the various scenes in which they are portrayed, in
the illustrations, thus arousing their interest. With a globe, or
a map of the world, point out Holland, and tell the children
something about the unique character of the country.
The text is so simply written that any third or fourth grade
child can read it without much preparation. In the third grade it
may be well to have the children read it first in the study
period in order to work out the pronunciation of the more
difficult words.
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