The Day of the Dead (El Dia Los Muertos) is celebrated in Mexico and many Mexican-American communities. It is a time to remember loved ones who have died. These picture books provide a look at preparations for and the celebration of the Day of the Dead, as well as the meaning behind many of the Day of the Dead rituals.
1. Pablo Remembers: The Fiesta of the Day of the Dead
Lothrop, Lee & Shepard Books
Photojournalist George Ancona does an excellent job of introducing El Dia de Los Muertos, the Day of the Dead, to 7-11 year old readers in Pablo Remembers: The Fiesta of the Day of the Dead. In their village in Mexico, Pablo and his family prepare for and celebrate the Day of the Dead. Through full-page and small color photographs, accompanied by explanatory text, Ancona tells the story of how one Mexican family honors their deceased relatives by participating in El Dia Los Muertos (the Day of the Dead) fiesta. (Lothrop, Lee & Shepard Books, 1993. ISBN: 9780688112493)
2. A Gift for Abuelita: Celebrating the Day of the Dead / Un regalo para Abuelita
Luna Rising, An Imprint of Rising Moon
A Gift for Abuelita: Celebrating the Day of the Dead / Un regalo para Abuelita: En celebración del Dia de los Muertos is the bilingual story of a young girl's search for comfort after the death of her beloved grandmother (Abuelita). Her grandfather suggests that Rosita make her grandmother "a gift for when she visits us on the Day of the Dead." While confused about what a visit means, Rosita braids a cord as a gift, and when she take it to her grandmother's grave, she feels her grandmother's love surround her. Artist Robert Chapman used mixed media on cast paper, with the result that each illustration looks as if it is heavily embroidered. I recommend the book for 7-11 year olds. (Luna Rising, 1998. ISBN: 9780873586887)
3. Day of the Dead
Voyager Books, Harcourt, Inc.
Day of the Dead by Tony Johnston is a small book that tells the story of a Mexican family's elaborate preparations for the Day of the Dead. The striking acrylic paintings by Jeanette Winter are a joy. With vibrant colors, imaginative borders and fanciful folkart-style pictures, the illustrations greatly complement the story about a family's enjoyment of holiday preparations and activities. While the book will appeal to 6-9 year olds, the delightful illustrations and the joy the family finds in the celebration will appeal to all ages. (Voyager Books, An Imprint of Harcourt, 1997. ISBN: 9780152024468)
