Picture Book Highlights | 16 Great Latinx Picture Books

By Monica C. RSS Thu, September 23, 2021

Hispanic Heritage Month takes place over two months, from September 15 to October 15, and as in previous years we wanted to share with you recent works by the many talented Latinx authors and illustrators of picture books. We are sure you will find much to love within these pages!
 

El Cucuy Is Scared, Too! written by Donna Barba Higuera; illustrated by Juliana Perdomo

ebook available from Overdrive

Ramón is worried about his first day at a new school, but it helps to remind El Cucuy—the monster who lives in his cactus pot—of how brave and strong they both are.

Bright Star by Yuyi Morales

ebook available from Overdrive

This is the story of a fawn making her way through a border landscape teaming with flora and fauna native to the region. A gentle but empowering voice encourages her to face her fears when she comes across an obstacle in the form of an insurmountable barrier.

Hair Story written by NoNieqa Ramos; illustrated by Keosha Morris

ebook available from Overdrive

Illustrations and rhythming text follow a Boricua girl and a Black girl from birth through early childhood, culminating in a playdate where they celebrate their natural hair.

Zonia’s Rain Forest by Juana Martinez-Neal

ebook available from Overdrive

Enjoying days spent with animal friends near her home in the Amazon, young Zonia wonders what to do on a day when the rainforest calls out to her for help. A lushly illustrated story that is complemented by back matter about the Asháninka community.

Paletero Man written by Lucky Diaz; illustrated by Micah Player

ebook available from Overdrive

Follow along with our narrator as he passes through his busy neighborhood in search of the Paletero Man. But when he finally catches up with him, our narrator's pockets are empty. Oh no! What happened to his dinero? It will take the help of the entire community to get the tasty treat now.

A Song of Frutas written by Margarita Engle; illustrated by Sara Palacios

ebook available from Overdrive

While visiting her abuelo (grandfather) in Cuba, a young girl helps him sell frutas, singing the name of each fruit as they walk. After she returns to the United States, they exchange letters made of abrazos (hugs).

Areli Is a Dreamer written by Areli Morales; illustrated by Luisa Uribe

ebook available from Overdrive

In the first picture book written by a DACA dreamer, Areli Morales tells her own powerful and vibrant immigration story of moving from a quiet town in Mexico to the bustling and noisy metropolis of New York City.

The Cot in the Living Room written by Hilda Eunice Burgos; illustrated by Gaby D’Alessandro

ebook available from Overdrive

A young Dominican American girl in New York City moves from jealousy to empathy as her parents babysit children whose families work the overnight shift in this honest and warm picture book debut.

My Two Border Towns written by David Bowles; illustrated by Erika Meza

ebook available from Overdrive

A boy and his father cross the United States-Mexico border every other Saturday, visiting their favorite places, spending time with family and friends, and sharing in the responsibility of community care.

Run, Little Chaski! An Inka Trail Adventure written by Mariana Llanos; illustrated by Mariana Ruiz Johnson

In this tale set in the ancient Inkan empire, Little Chaski has a big job: he is the Inka King's newest royal messenger. But on his first day,  things quickly start to go awry. Will Little Chaski be able to deliver the royal message on time?

What Will You Be? written by Yamile Saied Méndez; illustrated by Kate Alizadeh

ebook available from Overdrive

What will you be when you grow up? A young girl dreams about all the endless possibilities, sparking a sense of wonder, curiosity, and growth. With her abuela's (grandmother's) loving guidance, she learns her potential is limitless.

I Wish You Knew written by Jackie Azúa Kramer; illustrated by Madgalena Mora

ebook available from Overdrive

When Estrella's father has to leave because he wasn't born in America, like her, she misses him. And she wishes people knew the way it affects her. At home. At school. Always.

We Laugh Alike = Juntos nos Reímos written by Carmen T. Bernier; illustrated by Alyssa Bermudez

ebook available from Overdrive

Six children are at the park, with one group speaking only English and the other only Spanish. Soon they will learn to communicate through playing, dancing, and singing.

Coquí in the City by Nomar Perez

ebook available from Overdrive

When Miguel and his parents move from Puerto Rico to the U.S. mainland, Miguel misses their home, his grandparents, and his pet frog, Coquí. He soon realizes that New York City has more in common with his former home than he originally thought.

Mi Casa Is My Home written by Laurenne Sala; illustrated by Zara González Hoang

ebook available from Overdrive

Bienvenidos (Welcome) to Lucía’s home. Lucía lives in her casa with her big, loud, beautiful familia, and she’s going to show you around! From la puerta, where Abuela likes to wave to the neighbors and wait for packages from Puerto Rico or Spain; to la cocina, where Lucía watches her Mamá turn empty pots into soups and arroces; to el patio, where Lucia and her cousins (and her cousin’s cousins!) put on magic shows. Lucía loves her busy and cozy casa.

May Your Life Be Deliciosa written by Michael Genhart; illustrated by Loris Lora

ebook available from Overdrive

Each year on Christmas Eve, Rosie's abuela teaches her not only how to make a delicious tamale, but how to make a delicious life—one filled with love, plenty of spice, and family.

Be sure to check our catalog and Overdrive Kids eReading Room for these titles and many more being added.


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