Celebrate Heroism in Yourself: Children's Books for Hispanic Heritage Month

Celebrate Heroism in Yourself: Children's Books for Hispanic Heritage Month

Rippers: The Unsavory Guide

Growing up, the protagonists in my books were all gleaming white. Even though these characters bore no resemblance to me, I still found a way to connect with them. From Junie B. Jones' sass to Hermione Granger's knowledge to Percy Jackson's trustworthiness. It was a rare treat when I stumbled upon a book that showcased a Hispanic or Latinx character, for here was someone who looked like me and shared my heritage. Unfortunately, these characters were often relegated to sidekicks or minor roles; this was not their story, they were not the hero.

Fast forward from the '90s to today's children's literature that champions diverse characters and authors. Much of this is owed to Dr. Rudine Sims Bishop's astute insights in her thirty-year-old essay, "Windows, Mirrors, and Sliding Glass Doors". In it, Dr. Bishop emphasized the significance of children seeing themselves in the books they read and learning about the lives of others, which helps us understand each other better. At our website, our collection aims to represent our community, ensuring that every young reader can find themselves in books on our shelves.

I still cherish the white protagonists I grew up with and I encourage others to read them. However, I do get a kick out of sharing new diverse protagonists with fellow readers. Here are a few children's books featuring Hispanic and Latinx main characters:

If You Love the Pigeon, Give Little Lobo a Chance

For the past two decades, books by author and illustrator Mo Willems have become just as widespread as Dr. Seuss. Years ago, I read "Don't Let the Pigeon Drive the Bus!" to my younger sisters, and they adored Willems' peculiar illustrations, which gave life to the demanding and hilarious Pigeon. Similarly, author and illustrator Raúl the Third possesses his own unique illustrations to breathe life into his characters. In "¡Vamos! Let's Go to the Market", readers are introduced to Little Lobo and his lively community. Readers of the Pigeon books will enjoy the interactive Little Lobo picture books that are filled with intricate illustrations and sprinkled with Spanish vocabulary.

If Junie B. Jones is Your Jam, Check Out Sofia Martinez

Who couldn't relate to Junie B. Jones wanting to take her baby brother to school on Pet Day? I wanted to do the same with my younger sister at the time. Like Junie B. Jones, Sofia Martinez is energetic, smart, funny, and mischievous, often finding herself in predicaments. The "Sofia Martinez" series by Jacqueline Jules is a great read-a-like to Barbara Park's beloved series, with lively illustrations and Spanish phrases scattered throughout.

If Ella Enchanted is Your Cup of Tea, Give Solimar a Spin

I loved books by Gail Carson Levine growing up, particularly "Ella Enchanted", "The Two Princesses of Bamarre", and "Fairest". They all enchanted me with magical adventures, fantastical lands, and strong, fierce princesses who saved themselves and the day. Pam Muñoz Ryan's newest middle-grade novel, "Solimar" embodies everything I adore about Levine's books and immerses readers in rich Latin-American culture and mythology. Solimar is a must-read for Levine's fans of all ages!

If The Lightning Thief is Your Favorite, Take a Peek at The Storm Runner

With "The Lightning Thief", Rick Riordan introduced Percy Jackson and since then, tween readers have been enthralled with Greek mythology. Now, Riordan partners with diverse authors to bring readers mythology beyond Greek, such as Maya mythology in Jennifer Cervantes' "The Storm Runner". If you're a fan of Percy Jackson, you'll want to learn about the new hero Zane Obispo, as he deals with Mayan gods, mythical creatures, and an ancient prophecy to save the world. (By the way, have you seen the new teaser for the Percy Jackson show? CHOKES ME UP!)

If The Giver resonates with you, try The Last Cuentista

"The Giver" by Lois Lowry, though assigned reading for sixth grade, impressed me immensely with its thought-provoking depiction of a dystopian society. Like 1994 John Newbery Medal winner for outstanding contribution to children's literature, "The Giver", 2022 Newbery Medal winner, "The Last Cuentista" by Donna Barba Higuera features a brave and compassionate protagonist who must fight to survive against a sinister regime that alters and deletes memories. Higuera seamlessly combines her science fiction tale with Mexican folklore, producing a lyrical and compelling read.

For more amazing titles to celebrate Hispanic and Latinx authors during Hispanic Heritage Month:

¡Vamos! Let's Go to the Market ¡Vamos! Let's Go to the Market

¡Vamos! Let's Go to the Market ¡Vamos! Let's Go to the Market

Raúl the Third, 1976-Raúl the Third, 1976-Federico and the Wolf

Federico and the Wolf Federico and the Wolf

Gomez, Rebecca J.,Gomez, Rebecca J.,A Crown for Corina

A Crown for Corina A Crown for Corina

Kemp, Laekan Zea,Kemp, Laekan Zea,My Family Adventure

My Family Adventure My Family Adventure

Jules, Jacqueline, 1956-Jules, Jacqueline, 1956-Battle of the Bad-breath Bats

Battle of the Bad-breath Bats Battle of the Bad-breath Bats

Bowles, David (David O.) Bowles, David (David O.)Stella Díaz Has Something to Say

Stella Díaz Has Something to Say Stella Díaz Has Something to Say

Dominguez, Angela Dominguez, Angela Solimar

Solimar Solimar

Ryan, Pam Muñoz Ryan, Pam Muñoz The Storm Runner

The Storm Runner The Storm Runner

Cervantes, J. C. (Jennifer C.) Cervantes, J. C. (Jennifer C.) The Last Cuentista

The Last Cuentista The Last Cuentista

Higuera, Donna Barba, Higuera, Donna Barba, The First Rule of Punk

The First Rule of Punk The First Rule of Punk

Pérez, Celia C., 1972-Pérez, Celia C., 1972-Pilar Ramirez and the Escape From Zafa

Pilar Ramirez and the Escape From Zafa Pilar Ramirez and the Escape From Zafa

Randall, Julian Randall, Julian You Only Live Once, David Bravo

You Only Live Once, David Bravo You Only Live Once, David Bravo

Oshiro, Mark, Oshiro, Mark, Invisible

Invisible Invisible

Gonzalez, Christina Diaz, 1969-Gonzalez, Christina Diaz, 1969- Enrichment Data:

Overall:If you're seeking children's books featuring diverse main characters, especially Hispanic and Latinx characters, here are some excellent alternatives to traditional series like Junie B. Jones and Percy Jackson:

Picture Books

• "The Piñata That the Farm Maiden Hung" by Samantha R. Vamos: A vibrant story about a farm maiden who hangs a piñata for a party, highlighting the rich cultural heritage of piñatas.
• "Mis Dos Pueblos Fronterizos (My Two Border Towns)" by David Bowles: A heartwarming tale about a boy who lives in two different towns along the U.S.-Mexico border, exploring themes of identity and community.
• "Across the Bay" by Carlos Aponte: A personal and poignant story about a boy's journey across the bay, reflecting on his family and cultural roots.

Juvenile and Middle Grade

• "Juana & Lucas" by Juana Medina: A humorous and engaging story about a Colombian girl named Juana and her dog Lucas, exploring themes of language and cultural identity.
• "Lotería" by Karla Valenti: A magical and imaginative tale that combines Mexican folklore with the traditional game of Lotería.
• "Merci Suárez Changes Gears" by Meg Medina: A relatable story about a young Cuban-American girl navigating her family's financial struggles and her own identity.
• "Undercover Latina" by Aya de León: A thrilling adventure about a 14-year-old girl from a family of spies, blending action and family drama.
• "Grow Up, Luchy Zapata": A funny and relatable story about a Colombian American girl navigating middle school challenges and friendships.
• "Sing It Like Celia": A story about a Mexican American girl who finds her voice through her idol, Celia Cruz, exploring themes of identity and empowerment.

Teen

• "The Wicked Bargain" by Gabe Cole Novoa: A dark and captivating tale that mixes fantasy with Latinx culture, perfect for fans of magical realism.
• "Yo No Soy Tu Perfecta Hija Mexicana (I Am Not Your Perfect Mexican Daughter)" by Erika Sánchez: A poignant novel about a young Mexican-American girl navigating her family's expectations and her own identity.
• "Sanctuary" by Paola Mendoza: A powerful story about resilience and hope, set against the backdrop of immigration and family.

These books provide a diverse range of stories that celebrate Hispanic and Latinx cultures, offering a rich alternative to traditional series.

1. The books, 'If You Love the Pigeon, Give Little Lobo a Chance', 'If Junie B. Jones is Your Jam, Check Out Sofia Martinez', and 'If Ella Enchanted is Your Cup of Tea, Give Solimar a Spin' are entertaining options for readers who prefer diverse characters in their literature.
2. For those looking for new picture book additions to their home-and-garden, they may find interests in 'The Piñata That the Farm Maiden Hung', 'Mis Dos Pueblos Fronterizos (My Two Border Towns)', and 'Across the Bay'.
3. For older readers who enjoy reading about lifestyle and entertainment, they can turn to 'The Wicked Bargain', 'Yo No Soy Tu Perfecta Hija Mexicana (I Am Not Your Perfect Mexican Daughter)', and 'Sanctuary' as thought-provoking options that offer insights into Hispanic and Latinx cultures.

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