This is a children's book in a bilingual format that is in full color. My granddaughter has expressed the desire to improve her Spanish reading ability therefore I am passing on all my bilingual and Spanish books to her. ( )

Summary: Journey with two kids on the purpose of the day of the dead, what are the rituals, and what must be done.

Author/illustrator Bob Barner offers an engaging celebration of the Day of the Dead / Día de Muertos for preschool children in this brightly-illustrated bilingual picture-book. The rhyming text describes the activities that people engage in on this holiday, which honors the spirits of one's ancestors and deceased relatives and friends. From the special treats to the decorations for the graveyard, from the singing to the dancing, this is a day to pray, to remember, and to celebrate...

Pairing Barner's simple text in rhyme - translated into Spanish by Teresa Mlawer - with lovely collage and mixed media artwork, The Day of the Dead / El día de los muertos offers a happy, upbeat look at a holiday celebrated in Mexico, a number of other Latin American countries, and parts of the United States. Although there is an afterword giving more information, I would have liked to see some discussion of the Day of the Dead as it relates to Allhallowtide (All Saints Eve, All Saints Day, All Souls Day), with which it coincides, and from which it takes some of its traditions. For me, one of the most fascinating aspects of Day of the Dead is its syncretism, blending European Catholic and indigenous Aztec beliefs. Of course, this is well outside the scope of this simple picture-book to explore fully. That said, some mention of All Souls/Saints Day would have allowed young readers to make connections between this cultural tradition and others the world over. Leaving that missed opportunity aside, this was an entertaining and engaging book, one I would recommend to any preschool teacher or storyteller looking for Day of the Dead titles. ( )

The Day of the Dead: El Dia De Los Muertos is a wonderful bilingual book about the celebration of the Day of the Dead. It easily explains the preparations the family goes through along with the celebration of ancestors. This is a great beginning book and for those who are learning Spanish, a great book to help convert English into Spanish and Spanish into English. ( )

I didn't grow up celebrating Día de los Muertos but I wish that I had after reading this. I know that Tucson has a huge celebration every year but I've never been able to make it down there to see what's going on. This book was really informative and pleasant to read. ( )