This exuberant Christmas alphabet book provides a colorful and joyous look at a Latino family's celebration of the 22 days of the traditional celebration of the Christmas season. With each letter of the alphabet, authors Susan Middleton Elya and Merry Banks introduce a Spanish word and a different aspect of the family's celebration. The paintings by Joe Cepeda fill each double page spread with the joy, colors, excitement, and wonder the family feels as they share their celebration with relatives and neighbors.
Through simple rhymes and detailed illustrations, the foods, symbols, decorations, and reenactment of Mary and Joseph's search for a place to stay in Bethlehem (Las Posadas) are all introduced. An Author's Note at the end of the book provides additional information and a glossary of the Spanish words introduced in this children's Christmas picture book. According to the Author's Note, the customs introduced in the book "are primarily Mexican."
I recommend this book as a family read-aloud for all ages. Younger children will enjoy the simple rhymes and colorful illustrations. Older children and adults will particularly enjoy the detailed illustrations, finding something new every time they look at the book as they learn more about the customs and traditions presented. Compare prices. (Chronicle Books, 2007. ISBN: 9780811852050)
