Elya, S. M., Martinez-Neal, J., & Andersen, H. C. (2017). La princesa and the pea. New York, NY: G.P Putmans Son.
This is a classic twist on a beloved fairytale. This delightful picture book incorporates both Spanish and English words. The colorful illustrations are both rich and vibrant!. Infused with Peruvian culture this classic fairytale come to life. Reader’s will be delighted when they see the queen isn’t the only trickster!
Inside Story HeadlineMedina, M., Dominguez, A., & Mlawer, T. (2015). Mango, Abuela and Me. Somerville, MA: Candlewick Press.
The beautiful, vibrant illustration in this book reflect the loving and tender relationship between Mia and her Abuela. Abuela moves from her beautiful, sunny, palm trees, and parrots to live with Mia and her parents in the city. This book shares the beautiful message that the language of love can be communicated through anything even a parrot!
(Paura Belpre` Winner 2016)
Tonatiuh, D. (2013). Pancho Rabbit and the Coyote. New York City, NY: Harry N Abrams.
This wonderfully illustrated story of a young rabbit and his family's waiting for their father's arrival after traveling far away to earn money for his family is a great book to share with younger children. In a meaningful and relatable tale. It shows the connection of the migrant worker and their families stories.
Pancho, a young rabbit, sets out on a great adventure when his father does not return from his two year journey north to find work in the great carrot and lettuce fields. Not too long into his journey did he meet a sneaky coyote who offered his help if Pancho would give him food in return. This book is beautifully written with intricate vocabulary the weaves through the pages with empathy and love. (Pura Belpre` Honor 2014)
Vamos, S. R., & López, R. (2013). The cazuela that the farm maiden stirred. Watertown, MA: Charlesbridge.
Lopez’s art is so vibrant and warm. The sun shines when you open the book, thanks to the use of a beautiful yellow for the majority of the background. Add to it the purple clouds tinged with red, the orange ground, and the vibrant green of the plants. It is the story of a farm maiden who stirred a pot. Once she started stirring, all of the animals wanted to help with what she was cooking. The cow, hen, donkey, and duck bring the story to life. Eventually everyone is waiting for the treat to be finished until they started playing music and dancing. Then no one was watching or stirring the pot! Thank goodness that they returned just in time to enjoy the arroz con leche that they had all cooked together!
( Pura Belpre` 2012)
Tafolla, C., Córdova, A., & Rawlins, C. (2010). Fiesta babies. Berkeley: Tricycle Press.
A delightful poetic, picture book. The illustrations of the 'Fiesta Babies' are stunning and the diversity shines through. Each page captures you with the colorful displays of culture. Primary students would love this book. One of the most beautiful things is the drawings of the babies come in al different shades from light to dark. This book embraces the rich diversity within the Latina community. Spanish words are used throughout the story and a glossary in the back of the book offers definitions of these words that are simple enough for children to understand and comprehend. ( Pura Belpre` Award 2011)
Morales, Y. (2008). Just in case: A trickster tale and Spanish alphabet book. New York: Roaring Brook Press.
This book is a unique alphabet perfect for young readers. It’s Grandmother Beetle’s birthday. Again. Señor Calavera wants to bring her gifts that she will love, and he gathers them to bring, each gift starting with an A through Z. There’s a bit of a catastrophe along the way, but there is a happy surprise ending. The picutres leap off the page with vibrant and warm colors. (Pura Belpre` Winner 2009)
Ryan, P. M. (2010). Esperanza rising. Dubuque, IA:
Kendall Hunt.Esperanza, the daughter of a wealthy landowner, and her mother must leave their home in Mexico and start over as farm workers in California after the death of her father. Set in the early 1930's, this book gives you a feel for the struggles of the Great Depression as well as California History. An inspiring story of struggle, hardship, and hope, This is a great work of historical fiction for children based on the life of the author's grandmother. This book will open meaningful dialogue with your middle aged children of hope and determination. ( Pura Belpre` Winner 2002)
Garza, C. L., Rohmer, H., Schecter, D., & Alarcón, F. X. (1996). In my family = En mi familia. San Francisco, CA: Childrens Book Press.
En Mi Familia" is about a young girl named Carmen who takes her readers to her hometown of Kingsville Texas. Carmen thinks back to wonderful memories of eating empanadas, witnessing the blessing of her cousin's wedding and dancing at a restaurant. Each picture is like looking at a picture from a scrapbook . It a vibrant story that reflects family and culture.
Ancona, G. (1993). Pablo Remembers: The Fiesta of the Day of the Dead. Lothrop.
From October 31 to November 2, people in Mexico celebrate the festival of el Día de Los Muertos, the Day of the Dead. This photodocumentary follows Pablo and his family as they prepare to honor the memory of Pablo's grandmother. Through the beautiful photos it documents the preparation. This is a wonderful nonfiction book that families and see themselves in.
