Reaching Readers with Diverse Books

Today we celebrate 10 Latinx books for children published this year.

When children see themselves in books, they’re better equipped to find solutions to everyday life; ways of coping, develop empathy and reading diverse books helps us step outside of ourselves into another’s life and world. Below are ten recently published books by Latinx authors. 

1. Lucky Luna by Diana López

Luna knows that every time she gets in trouble—and she gets in trouble a lot—one of her primas is responsible. “ In this funny and page-turning story, award-winning author Diana López reminds what it means to be a friend and a prima, and how to accept the things that make us truly unique.

2. Stella Diaz has Something to Say by Angela Dominguez

“In her first middle-grade novel, award-winning picture book author and illustrator Angela Dominguez tells a heartwarming story based on her own experiences growing up Mexican-American.”

3. Flor and Miranda Steal the Show by Jennifer Torres

Enjoy carnival rides and deep fried pickles in this warm, funny middle grade novel about family and friendship.

4. Merci Suárez Changes Gears by Meg Medina

Merci Suarez knew that sixth grade would be different, but she had no idea just how different. They don’t have a big house or a fancy boat, and they have to do extra community service to make up for their free tuition.

5. Tight  by Torrey Maldonado

A tween boy from the projects gets all wound up when he's constantly told he needs to be "hard" when he'd rather go with the flow and stay chill.

6. Ana Maria Reyes Does Not Live in a Castle by Hilda Eunice Burgos

“Her last name may mean "kings," but Ana Maria Reyes REALLY does not live in a castle. Rather, she's stuck in a tiny apartment with two parents (way too lovey-dovey), three sisters (way too dramatic), everyone's friends (way too often), and a piano (which she never gets to practice).”

7. ¡Celebración! by Susan Middleton Elya

“It's a sunny day and everyone is headed to the main plaza for the start of the town parade and summer celebration. Follow along the parade route with a family of six as the festivities unfold.  With engaging text and imaginative, whimsical illustrations, Celebracion! is the perfect way to enjoy a summer day and learn some Spanish too.

8. The Dragon Slayer: Folktales from Latin America by Jaime Hernandez

Guided by the classic works of F. Isabel Campoy and Alma Flor Ada, Hernandez’s first book for young readers brings the sights and stories of Latin America to a new generation of graphic-novel fans around the world.

9. Stef Soto, Taco Queen by Jennifer Torres

It's no fun being known as the "Taco Queen" at school. But just when it looks like Stef is going to get exactly what she wants, and her family's livelihood is threatened, she will have to become the truck's unlikely champion. 

*Reviewed on Kidliterati     

10. Tortilla Sun by Jennifer Cervantes

“When twelve-year-old Izzy discovers a beat-up baseball marked with the words ‘Because magic’ while unpacking in yet another new apartment, she is determined to figure out what it means. Infused with the flavor of the southwest and sprinkled with just a pinch of magic, this heartfelt middle grade debut is as rich and satisfying as Nana's homemade enchiladas. 

The First Rule of Punk by Celia C. Perez (released in 2017)

*Guest Post on Kidliterati

“The real Malu loves rock music, skateboarding, zines, and Soyrizo (hold the cilantro, please). And when she assembles a group of like-minded misfits at school and starts a band, Malu finally begins to feel at home. She'll do anything to preserve this, which includes standing up to an anti-punk school administration to fight for her right to express herself!”

 

Please share a few of your favorites in the comments! Here’s a wonderful blog devoted to "Latinxs in Kidlit".