Librarian Prep Post: Celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month
Hispanic Heritage Month celebrated from September 15 to October 15, is a vibrant occasion to honor and explore the rich histories, cultures, and contributions of Hispanic and Latinx communities.
Read on to prepare and join us in celebrating these diverse voices and their stories.
This month offers a unique opportunity to delve into stories that span generations and geographies, from the lively traditions of Central and South America to the diverse experiences of Hispanic Americans. From delightful picture books to thought-provoking biographies and exciting YA fiction, our handpicked selections inspire readers of all ages to celebrate the impactful contributions of Hispanic heritage.
Emilia’s Corte
Interest Level: Kindergarten – Grade 2
Through a hand-me-down traditional Mayan skirt, Emilia takes flight and sees her neighborhood in a new way, embracing her Guatemalan culture and letting her personality shine through her shyness.
Pieza a pieza (Piece by Piece)
Interest Level: Kindergarten – Grade 3
During the Great Depression, Ernestine Guerrero’s family didn’t have much. This is the true story of a resourceful Mexican American teen who made a remarkable gift to thank President Roosevelt for the food aid that helped them survive!
This picture book tells the inspiring true story of a girl who proved that if you look closely, treasure can be found in unexpected places. Now in Spanish!
★ Best Believe
Interest Level: Grade 1 – Grade 4
Rhythmic verse presents three sisters who moved from Puerto Rico to New York City as children and grew up to be pioneering activists in their Bronx community, focusing on schools, libraries, and the arts.
Praise for Best Believe
“The sisters’ fiery spirit runs through the text, which frankly calls out disparities and celebrates the Tres Hermanas’ many victories as they passionately defended the rights of Puerto Rican Americans and lifted up their culture. . . Illustrations channeling the sisters’ Puerto Rican roots feature saturated colors, tropical flower embellishments, moving portraits of the family and community, and a clean, modern aesthetic.” — starred, Booklist
50 Things You Didn’t Know about Mexico
From the Series 50 Things You Didn’t Know About
Interest Level: Grade 2 – Grade 5
Young readers will learn about Mexico’s history and ancient cultures, discover unique foods, and learn about daily life in this fascinating country.
★ Cruzita and the Mariacheros
Interest Level: Grade 6 – Grade 8
Cruzita wants to be a pop star. She doesn’t want to take mariachi lessons—until she and her fellow mariacheros come up with a plan to save her family’s struggling bakery and to let Cruzita shine.
Praise for Cruzita and the Mariacheros
“Mariachi, family, and pan dulce are the ingredients for this perfect middle grade novel. Highly recommended for all middle grade collections.” — starred, School Library Journal
Just Another Story
Interest Level: Grade 9 – Grade 12
When Carlos was nineteen, his mother decided to leave her life in El Salvador. Refusing to let her go without him, Carlos joined her journey north. Together they experienced the risks countless people face as they migrate.
They Thought They Buried Us
Interest Level: Grade 9 – Grade 12
Horror movie fan Yuiza gets a scholarship to a prestigious boarding school that isn’t what it seems. Yuiza must uncover the school’s sinister secrets and try to get out alive.
Find more books such as those above and many more to celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month by checking out our past blog posts or by exploring on lernerbooks.com
Comments