DÍA DE MUERTOS

A bilingual English-Spanish counting book that explores and honors Dia de los Muertos.

A family adds to their home ofrenda, an altar honoring loved ones who have died. With each page turn, the number of items grows by one—the family starts with “una foto” (“one photo”), then adds “dos incensarios” (“two incense burners”), “tres bebidas” (“three beverages”), and more. The simple and unadorned ofrenda soon becomes more elaborate and abundant as the family heaps on pan de muerto, marigolds, candles, and sugar skulls. Both a counting book and a primer on building a Dia de los Muertos ofrenda, this tale will delight readers with each new addition to the altar. Images are brought to life with Tonatiuh’s signature collage style. Bold graphics gain depth from overlaid textures of papers, fabric, wood, and other more subtle images such as grains of sugar. The distinctive pre-Colombian–inspired character profiles and strong linework create magnetic visual interest. The heart of the holiday, “remembering a loved one with a beautiful altar,” shines delightfully. A brief author’s note provides more background about where, when, and how Dia de los Muertos is celebrated. This Latine family includes a wheelchair user who participates in the celebration. (This book was reviewed digitally; this review has been updated for accuracy.)

A charming concept and holiday book—count on this one to be a future favorite.