Apr 28, 2014 by Yolanda Fontanez-Coleman | Learning Resources, Reading
What is Cinco de Mayo? Cinco de Mayo (May 5th) is a celebration to remember the Battle of Puebla which was fought on May 5, 1862. This is the day when Mexicans won an important battle against the French army which was invading Mexico. It is celebrated in the United States and in Mexico.
We compiled a list of children’s books that students can learn about Cinco de Mayo, Mexican and Mexican-American culture. Celebrate Cinco de Mayo with children’s books. Happy Reading!
K-1:
Let Me Help! Quiero Ayudar! by Alma Flor Ada: Perico, the parrot, is very excited about Cinco de Mayo celebration and he continuously cries, “Let me help! Quiero ayudar!
Cinco de Mouse-O! by Judy Cox: Humorous story about an adventurous mouse & an easy introduction to the Cinco de Mayo holiday.
Off We Go to Mexico by Laurie Krebs: Picture book that follows a family as they discover Mexico.
2-3:
Cinco de Mayo: Celebrating the Traditions of Mexico by Diane Hoyt-Goldsmith: Follow Rosa, a Mexican-American girl from California, as she learns about the true meaning of Cinco de Mayo.
Mexico by Elaine Landau: Nonfiction book with fun facts & pictures about Mexico.
Fiesta Fememina: Celebrating Women in Mexican Folktale adapted by Mary-Joan Gerson: Folktales that celebrate the strength of Mexican women and embraces the vibrant and rich Mexican culture.
4-5:
Holidays Around the World: Celebrate Cinco de Mayo: with Fiestas, Music, and Dance by Carolyn Otto: Easy text to read aloud with color photos about Cinco de Mayo.
Mexico!: 40 Activities to Experience Mexico Past & Present by Susan Milord: Discusses the history & daily life of Mexico, using a variety of activities to reinforce the information.
Confetti Girl by Diana Lopez: Apolonia “ Lina” Flores loves playing volleyball, science, mathematical riddles and collecting lavish and lonely socks.
6-8:
The Best Mariachi in the World by J.D. Smith and Dani Jones: Gustavo wants be in a mariachi band & become the best mariachi singer in the world.
Mexico & Central America: A Fiesta of Cultures, Crafts, and Activities for Ages 8-12 by Mary C. Turck: Multicultural activity book celebrates cultures of Mexico & Central America.
9-12:
The Latino Holiday Book: From Cinco de Mayo to Dia De Los Muertos: The Celebrations and Traditions of Hispanic-Americans by Valerie Menard: Covers Latino holidays & traditions including Cinco de Mayo.
Laughing Out Loud, I Fly by Juan Felipe Herrera: Poems by author about growing up Mexican-American.
Do you have any books that you recommend for Cinco de Mayo? Leave a comment below!