(4) K-3 Illustrated by Carles Ballesteros. A family celebrates the Day of the Dead by eating sugar skulls and visiting the cemetery, where they listen to a band and let their ancestors know that they remember them. Ballesteros's colorful art recalls the traditional cut-paper papel picado associated with the holiday, while the rhyming text, which incorporates Spanish words, gives broad generalizations of the traditions. Glos.

Reviewer: Maeve Visser Knoth

(3) K-3 Illustrated by John Parra. In this festive concept book, all the colors found in a Latino neighborhood are described in rhyming text with frequent Spanish words, explained in detail in a glossary. The objects described, such as ristras, piñatas, and faroles, are staples of Mexican culture, but Parra's folk art–style paintings, stuffed with entertaining details, make them universally understandable and appealing.

Reviewer: Siena Leslie

(2) K-3 Illustrated by Sara Palacios. Peppered with Spanish words, this reimagining of "'Twas the Night Before Christmas" relates the Christmas Eve celebrations of a Latino family. Thong's humorous verse follows Moore's strong rhythm without faltering--despite the metrical challenges of working in two languages at once. Palacios's warm, earth-toned illustrations invite readers into the festivities, whether these tradiciones are familiar or new to them. Glos.

Reviewer: Katie Bircher | Horn Book Magazine Issue: November, 2014

(3) K-3 Illustrated by Meilo So. In this new tale of long-ago China, Mei fears she lacks Grandpa's magical genius for making noodles. When she asks him and the Moon Goddess for guidance, both advise that she look to herself, and Mei soon discovers her own magic. So's lively illustrations, with their busy street scenes and eye-catching details, will draw readers into the entertaining, whimsical story.

Reviewer: Katrina Hedeen

(3) K-3 Illustrated by John Parra. "Round are campanas / that chime and ring. / Round are nests / where swallows sing." This rhyming text features occasional Spanish words as it celebrates Latino culture and shapes found in everyday life. Parra's warm folk-art-like illustrations feature children and families cooking, playing, and partying. The images invite repeat viewing to find the different shapes within. A glossary of Spanish words is appended.

Reviewer: Belinda Arrendondo