Latino Children's Booklist
An annotated list of Latino children's literature
How did you select books for this list?
This is an annotated list of quality children's literature that is representative of an authentic Latino/Latina experience. The authors of the books that were selected are all written by Latino and Latina authors and provide affirming stories and characters.
Abuela by Arthur Dorros, illustrated by Elisa Kleven
Dorros beautifully captures the close relationship between a young girl, Rosalba, and her abuela as they spend a day together. The story's is richly illustrated by striking collages that capture the bustling city and Latino culture. In addition there is a helpful Spanish/English glossary.
Just in Case by Yuyi Morales
This book is a richly illustrated Spanish alphabet book that weaves in a traditional "trickster" tale. Senor Calavera is trying to find the perfect gift for Grandma Beetle's birthday. Zelmiro the ghost makes recommendation after recommendation. In the end, Senor Calavera brings Grandma her favorite thing.
Marimba! Animales from A to Z by Pat Mora, illustrated by Doug Cushman
This whimsical Spanish alphabet book incorporates both Spanish and English words that are similar. This book is a great choice for students learning Spanish or English. The translation and pronunciation guide is also helpful. Children of all ages and cultures will delight in the animals' escapades at the zoo.
Martin de Porres: the Rose in the Desert by Gary D. Schmidt, illustrated by David Diaz
Martin de Porres is based on the true story of a bi-racial boy born into poverty in Peru despite his nobleman father. Martin who is always humble and patient is able to cure animals, plants, and people. Eventually he earns the respect and ultimately joins the priesthood in Lima. This story of justice and equality will ring true for readers.
Numero Uno by Alex Dorros and Arthur Dorros, illustrated by Susan Guevara
Hercules, the strongest man in the village, and Socrates, the smartest, continue to argue over who is "Numero Uno" in their small village. The villagers come up with a test that will settle this dispute. However Hercules and Socrates continue to bicker. In the end even the villagers are surprised by what happens between these two.
Grandmother Have the Angels Come? By Denise Vega, illustrated by Erin Eitter Kono
Beautiful language and imagery share the special bond between a young girl and her beloved grandmother. RIchly created illustrations also capture the natural process of aging and the questions that children often have.
Abuelas by Pat Mora, illustrated by Amerila Lau Carling
The tradition of "los abuelos" coming down from the mountains is a tradition in Northern New Mexico. Children are encouraged to behave and to respect their elders because they will be visited by the scary old grandfathers. This cautionary tale captures this family tradition and the love between generations.
Chavela and the Magic Bubble by Monica Brown, illustrate by Magaly Morales
Chavela is a young girl who enjoys "chicle." One day Chavela blows a very large bubble and is able to fly out her bedroom window to Mexico. Colorful paintings capture Chavela's bubble and her trip to the forest of Mexico to watch chicle being harvested.
The Cazuela that the Farm Maiden Stirred by Samantha R. Vamos, illustrated by Rafael Lopez
This tale follows a young farm maiden as she gathers all the ingredients for and cooks "cazuela" or rice pudding. The bilingual story gives readers a taste of Latino culture and language. The author includes a recipe and glossary.
The Dreamer by Pam Munoz Ryan and Peter Sis
This unusual and important work is part story tale and part memoir enveloped in Sis's distinctive pen drawings. The true story of poet Pablo Nerudo (born Neftali Reyes) who became one of the most influential poets and thinkers of his generation despite his unsupportive and disinterested father. Ryan includes some of Nerudo's poems and information on him.
Yes! We are Latinos by Alma Flor Ada and F. Isabel Campoy, illustrated by David Diaz
Twelve narrative poems, each distinctly illustrated by David Diaz's authentic lino cuts, shares a different perspective of Latina/Latino culture and heritage. In addition to the stories created, the authors have shared informational text that gives powerful perspective to these poems. For example, "My Name is Julio" tells the story of a migrant farmer in California. Ada and Campoy include a short chapter on the history of migrant farm workers in the United States.
Papa and Me by Arthur Dorros, illustrated by Rudy Gutierrez
Sweet story of the love and close bond shared between a father and son. They also both speak Spanish and English. The story follows them on a day off together. Rudy Gutierrez evocative paintings makes the story even softer.
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