From September 15th to October 15th, we celebrate the enriching and inspiring heritages of people whose ancestors come from Central and South America, Spain, Mexico, and the Caribbean. Coinciding with the independence days for Chile, Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, Mexico, and Nicaragua, there is much to celebrate and learn with children all throughout Hispanic Heritage Month.

A cornerstone of Tandem’s work is the enduring idea that books should reflect children’s lived experiences and introduce them to the lived experiences of others. And that’s the spirit behind this book list that celebrates Hispanic Heritage Month. The titles in this list highlight Latine characters in a variety of settings, introducing children to different aspects of the Latine experience. For some children, these books will be mirrors that reflect their backgrounds and experiences; for others, these books will be windows that open up opportunities to learn about new people, places, things and experiences. 

When children are able to share their own experiences and learn about the experiences of others, especially those who represent cultures and communities different from their own, it helps them develop empathy, compassion, and the capacity for inclusion—thereby laying the foundation for an equitable society. 

This is just a sample of titles we recommend sharing this month! See our full list of titles with talking tips, teaching tips, and more.

Dreamers by Yuyi Morales

How do you make a new place into your home? This is a story about family, and a celebration of what immigrants bring with them when they come to a new country and make it their home. This book also includes a short essay about the author’s own experience as an immigrant from Veracruz, Mexico, the books that inspire her, and a description of the images used to create this book.

Talking Tip: The characters in this book have had to move and make their home in a new place. Discuss with your child how they felt at different points in the story. If there’s ever been a time in your life when you made big transitions, talk about that time with your child; ask them to share their own experiences and feelings. Use this book to introduce children to sense of self, relationships, and new vocabulary.

For more learning activities, check out our interactive read aloud and accompanying activity guide!

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Los Deseos de Carmela by Matt De La Peña

It’s the morning of Carmela’s birthday and her wish has already come true: She’s finally old enough to go into town with her brother to do errands. But when she’s given the chance to make another wish, what will it be? A chance for mom to sleep in the beds she cleans in the fancy hotel she works at? Or for the papers dad needs to finally come back home? This heartfelt story is an ode to dreamers, family, and the power of hope.

Talking Tip: Carmela could have used her wishes for anything, but she chose to think of ways to make her family happy. Ask your child: “What things would you use your wishes for?” Have them explain why.

For more learning activities, check out our interactive read aloud and accompanying activity guide!

Vea la hora de cuentos virtual en español
Descargue nuestra Guía de actividades en español

May Your Life be Deliciosa by Michael Genhart

Each year on Christmas Eve, Rosie’s family gathers in Abuela’s kitchen to make tamales and tell stories. In this story of how families live, love, learn, and grow together, Rosie’s abuela teaches her how to make a delicious tamale…and a delicious, perfectly seasoned life.

Talking Tip: The author’s note at the end of the book tells us more about his life and the inspiration for these stories. He ends by saying “Storytelling connects us all.” Talk with your child about what that means. What family memories, traditions, and stories does this book bring up for you?

Sembrando historias by Anika Aldamuy Denise

This is an inspirational book about Pura Belpré: a writer, puppeteer, and the first Puerto Rican librarian in New York City. Noticing the lack of Puerto Rican folktale stories on the library shelves, Pura takes action. She begins by sharing these stories at the library and then with the world when she eventually publishes her own books.

Talking Tip: It is essential to see ourselves reflected in the books we read. All of us have a unique and special story that deserves to be told. Discuss with your child: Have you ever read a book that has a character that looks like you? How did it make you feel to see a character who looks like you? How does it make you feel when you can’t find characters who look like you? If you could write a story about someone like you, what would you write about?

Check out more titles celebrating Latine voices on our complete Hispanic Heritage Month recommended book list.