Hispanic Heritage Month picture books for kids

Sept. 17

Hispanic Heritage Month is celebrated from September 15 to October 15 every year. It is a great time to look into cultural literature. For read-alouds, bedtime stories or just for pleasure, here is a list of picture books you can expose your young children or students to during this time of year.

“My Name is Celia” by Monica Brown: Young readers enter the world of Cuba-native Celia Cruz, as she becomes a successful singer.
“Islandborn” by Junot Diaz: Lola can’t remember where her family originated from, as she was just a baby when they left. With the help of family, friends and memories, Lola takes a journey back to the Island.
“La Princesa and the Pea” by Susan Middleton Elya: A fresh twist to a well-known tale, with a charming bilingual twist.
“Who Was” series: “Who Was Selena,” “Who Was Cesar Chavez,” “Who Was Frida Kahlo,” “Who Was Celia Cruz,” amongst others, are all great biographical books about important Hispanic figures!
“Gustavo the Shy Ghost” by Flavia Z. Drago: This book about bravery in friendship tells the story of Gustavo, a shy ghost, trying to show his love of music as the Day of the Dead festival approaches.
“Alma and How She Got Her Name” by Juana Martinez-Neal: Alma Sofia Esperanza José Pura Candela has way too many names, but as she learns about the story of her name, she realizes it might be perfect after all.

Which children’s books are your go-to reads during Hispanic Heritage Month? Let us know at Arizona PBS KIDS on Facebook.

About the author

Marissa Will is the mother of two, Olivia (6) and Logan (4). Writing was her first passion: she’s a freelance writer and a Walter Cronkite School of Journalism and Mass Communication alumna. Will is currently educating the future leaders of tomorrow: She has spent the past nine years educating third grade with a master’s degree in elementary education from Northern Arizona University-Yuma.