Picture books are not just for preschoolers! There are so many great picture books with exciting stories that the whole family can read and enjoy together. I especially love picture books with unique and vibrant illustrations. I found several wonderfully illustrated books that celebrate Latinx stories. These books are a fun way to learn a little Spanish, celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month and highlight diversity while reading together as a family.
Waiting for the Biblioburro/Esperando el Biblioburro by Monica Brown
A little girl named Ana meets a librarian who brings books to the children in her village with the help of his two donkeys. The story, told in both English and Spanish, is inspired by Luis Soriano Bohórquez, a librarian whose biblioburro program brought books to remote villages in Colombia.
Find it now
The Best Mariachi in the World/El Mejor Mariachi del Mundo by J.D. Smith
Gustavo’s family members are talented at playing musical instruments. Gustavo longs to be part of the mariachi band, but he learns that the violin, trumpet and guitar are not the right instruments for him. When he is ready to give up and feel like the worst mariachi in the world, Gustavo discovers a surprise instrument that is just right for him. This bright and colorful picture book sprinkles Spanish words throughout the story and includes a Spanish/English glossary at the back of the book.
Find it now
Islandborn by Junot Díaz
Lola’s family left the Dominican Republic when Lola was a baby. When her teacher asks the class to draw a picture of the country they are originally from, Lola wonders how she will be able to complete the project. Lola decides to talk to her family and everyone in her neighborhood since they are always talking about the Island. Through their stories and memories Lola learns all about the island where she was born and creates a beautiful picture to share with her class.
Find it now
Dancing Hands: How Teresa Carreño Played the Piano for President Lincoln by Margarita Engle
At 6 years old, Teresita was composing her own music. Known as the Piano Girl, Teresita performed with orchestras and in theaters all over the world. When she was just 10 years old, she received a special invitation from President Abraham Lincoln to perform at the White House.
Find it now
Playing Lotería/El Juego de la Lotería by René Colato Laínez
A little boy visits his grandmother in Mexico. His grandmother runs a stand at the fair where visitors can play Lotería, a game similar to Bingo. With the help of the Lotería cards and his grandmother’s phrases for calling out the cards, the little boy learns to speak Spanish. The story is told in both English and Spanish and includes the rules for playing Lotería at the end of the book.
Find it now
Nacho’s Nachos: The Story Behind the World’s Favorite Snack by Sandra Nickel and Oliver Dominguez
If you ever have a taste for nachos, you can usually find them in restaurants, movie theaters, sports stadiums, even at the mall! Learn how Ignacio (Nacho) García created this popular snack while working at a restaurant in Northern Mexico.