While we are busy dressing our little ones for trick-or-treating and attending costume parties, los mexicanos are putting on calacas and honoring the deceased in the traditional Aztec ritual, el Día de los Muertos. On November 1st and 2nd, Mexicans (and some in other parts of Central America) visit cemeteries, build altars for loved ones in their homes, and enjoy a feast featuring pan de muerto.
Even if this is not your family’s tradition, you can take advantage of the occasion to read some interesting cultural tales with your niños. Use this list, a complement to the crafts and recipes found elsewhere on SpanglishBaby, as a guide to a better understanding of this important Latino holiday.
El Día de Los Muertos/The Day of the Dead by Bob Barner
I Remember Abuelito: A Day of the Dead Story by Janice Levy
Day of the Dead by Tony Johnston
Clatter Bash! A Day of the Dead Celebration by Richard Keep
Pablo Remembers by George Ancona
The Spirit of Tío Fernando: A Day of the Dead Story by Janice Levy
Un Regalo para Abuelita: En Celebración del Día de los Muertos by Nancy Luenn
Skulls to the Living, Bread to the Dead: The Day of the Dead in Mexico and Beyond by Stanley Brandes
El Corazón de la Muerte: Altars and Offerings for Days of the Dead by Oakland Museum of California
The Latino Holiday Book: From Cinco de Mayo to Día de Los Muertos by Valerie Menard
