Read and Rise Global Explorers 2021 - Saint Lucia

We're finishing our global summer vacation on the small island of Saint Lucia in the Caribbean Sea. Saint Lucia may be less than 650 miles from Venezuela in South America, but all the Caribbean Islands are officially part of North America. The original inhabitants of this island were Caribs, but it was a French colony, then a British colony, and finally Saint Lucia achieved independence in 1979. Because of all the colonization, the culture and language of Saint Lucia are now an interesting blend of Carib, French, and English.

Read: "To Carnival: A Celebration in Saint Lucia" and "The Field" were both inspired by author Baptiste Paul's childhood home of Saint Lucia. "To Carnival" tells the story of a little girl desperate to get to the Carnival parade and the people and animals that join her journey along the way, eventually creating their own unique little parade! "The Field" places you in the middle of a lush green Caribbean field where a soccer game is underway. Will a sudden rainstorm end the children's fun?

Saint Lucia Activity Booklet - This printable booklet includes some interesting information about Saint Lucia as well as a couple recipes, crafts, and some Saint Lucian Creole words to learn. You will also find your Saint Lucia passport stamp here.

Saint Lucia Postcard - Here's a printable postcard from author Baptiste Paul!

Jo Jo Wants to Celebrate the St. Lucia Carnival with Great Gran-Gran - this is a cute short animated show that will inspire your children to plan their own little St. Lucia Carnival celebration!

Banana bread - a simple but delicious recipe is included in the Saint Lucia activity booklet

Fried plantains - an easy recipe is included in the Saint Lucia activity booklet

Saint Lucia Food and Drinks - here's a list of other dishes you'll find in Saint Lucia!

DIY Steelpan - directions for how to make your own steelpan can be found in the Saint Lucia activity booklet

Pirate Treasure sensory bin - a list of suggested materials to use can be found in the Saint Lucia activity booklet. For tips on sensory bin play, check out Sensory Bin 101.

For more information about Baptiste Paul and his books, visit BaptistePaul.net.

Thank you all so much for coming along with us on this global tour! There are so many more countries to explore!

Here are some quick links to the entire Global Explorers Summer 2021 series: