Mexico

On Dia de Los Muertos (Day of the Dead), it’s time go to the cemetery to celebrate lives of departed family and friends. Bring candles and favorite foods such as pan de muerto and chocolate atole drink, spread a path of marigold petals, join a parade of skeletons, dancers and musicians come out to play. In English and Spanish. (Picture book)

When Senor Calavera comes to call on Grandma, she's only too happy to go with him, but she has one house to sweep, two pots of tea to boil, three pounds of corn to make into tortillas… An irresistible tale, fabulously illustrated. (Picture book)

Charming introduction to Day of the Dead, in Spanish and English. Two children prepare for the holiday, and then under the moon glowing bright, they dance and sing. Beautiful paper collage illustrations. (Picture book, Board book)

More books on our blog post:
"Day of the Dead"

Luz Jimenez, a descendant of the Aztec flower-song people, became a model for Mexico's famous artists in the early 20th century. She found a way to preserve the language, culture and traditions of the Nahua, a living link to the "soul of Mexico."(Picture book)

Story of Frida Kahlo, one of Mexico's best-loved artists, who took her tears and painted miracles. She grew up in Mexico City, and painted in the "Blue House." For Frida, imagination was everything. (Picture book)

Also, chapter book: Who Was Frida Kahlo?

Diego Rivera painted what he saw, people on Day of the Dead, dances and traditions, workers in production line, battles against the Spanish, ancient city of Tenochitlan, Aztec warriors, murals that tell the story of Mexico. (Picture book)

Illustrated history of Chichen Itza, great city of the ancient Maya, life and culture, religion, astronomy, uncovering the ruins, and latest discoveries – inner structure inside El Castillo and sacred well underneath the pyramid. (Chapter book)

Get to know the ancient Maya, their cities, temples (including Il Castillo) and palaces in the rainforest, society, arts and religion, plus fun facts about the ancient Maya – flat foreheads and large noses were considered beautiful, wealthy Maya wore jaguar skins, jade was highly prized. (Picture book)

Retelling of a Mexican creation myth, Feathered Serpent (Quetzalcoatl, god of knowledge) goes on a quest to the underworld to recover sacred bones, and create humans. (Picture book)

And another myth, The Princess and the Warrior, how two great mountains were formed.

Choose three different paths for life in the Aztec empire – as a healer in the city, Eagle or Jaguar warrior, or travel with the Spanish conqueror Hernan Cortes. (Illustrated chapter book)

Also, good overview and introduction to the ancient Aztecs: The Aztec Empire

A delightful introduction to Mexico in rhymes and pictures – hop aboard a canyon train, climb the pyramids, celebrate festivals, dance to mariachi bands, explore the capital city, swim in turquoise waters, plus simple Spanish words. Two page, colorful illustrations, and perfect for younger kids. (Picture book)

Spend the day with Rosa, meet her family, eat breakfast (eggs, beans, tortillas), go to school, find out about Mexico's history (Olmec, Maya, Aztec, Spanish), natural wonders, holidays, enjoy typical Mexican meals and snacks. (Easy reader)

Spend the day in Mexico. Buenos Dias! Breakfast is yummy – scrambled eggs rojo, blanco y verde (red, white and green). Hop on a metrobus, play with amigos (friends) at escuela (school), explore Mexico City. Pan dulce con leche (sweet bread with milk) is a tasty sweet. At end of the day, get ready for bed, dulces suenos (sweet dreams). Buenas noches, bebe! (Board book)