Stories That Connect Us: Children’s Books for Hispanic Heritage Month

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Storytime is more than reading; it’s a way to pass down culture, language, and traditions that shape who we are. Just like the stories told by our parents and grandparents, books give children a sense of pride in their roots while opening their eyes to the experiences of others. Libraries make this even more accessible, offering families the opportunity to explore bilingual books, folktales, and stories that celebrate our diverse communities. This Hispanic Heritage Month, we’ve gathered a list of children’s books as well as recommendations from Tandem Partners and Colorín Colorado that highlight identity, resilience, and joy. We invite families to read together, share memories, and celebrate the stories that connect us.

Alma and How She Got Her Name / Alma y cómo obtuvo su nombre

This children’s book discusses the intricacies of having a cultural Hispanic name and all that comes with it. The book teaches young children to have pride in their heritage by having pride in their names. 

Sofi and the Magic, Musical Mural / Sofi y el magico mural musical

This bilingual book celebrates Hispanic heritage through art, murals, song, dance, and more. The book is written in English and Spanish and it celebrates culture through engaging and different forms of art. 

Where Are You From? / ¿De Dónde Eres? 

This bilingual book focuses on family history, cultural lineage, and home. This book focuses on where the main character is from and why it’s important to know this about herself. This book is a great introduction to the concept of home and community. 

Leyendas / Legends

Mónica Mancillas presents the stories of sixty inspiring figures in this beautifully illustrated collection showcasing the multitude of talent within the Latine community—from artists who have shaped pop culture, to athletes who have won championships, to activists who have changed laws, and so many more.

Isabel and her Colores go to School / Isabela y sus colores van a la escuela

Isabel speaks Spanish. When she goes to school, she has a hard time feeling comfortable because all of her classmates speak English. With the help of her colores she finds that friendship is a universal language. 

In My Family / En mi familia

Carmen Lomas Garza’s paintings are described individually in English and Spanish in this beautiful picture book. Garza shares illustrations about community and family paired with memories of growing up in Kingsville, TX. 

Los Coquíes aún cantan / The Coquíes Still Sing

This is a children's picture book by Karina Nicole González, inspired by the rebuilding of Puerto Rico after Hurricane Maria in 2017. It tells a story of hope and community resilience through the eyes of a young girl named Elena. 

Dreamers / Soñadores

Dreamers is a celebration of making your home with the things you always carry: your resilience, your dreams, your hopes, and history. It's the story of finding your way in a new place, of navigating an unfamiliar world, and finding the best parts of it. In dark times, it's a promise that you can make better tomorrows.


Other Book Recommendations

Book Recommendations from Tandem Partners in Early Learning

Here is a list of 12 great book recommendations that discuss Hispanic heritage, identity, and culture. 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 friends and neighbors in their community. 

Hispanic Heritage Booklists and Resources from Colorín Colorado

The booklists from Colorín Colorado are for children and young adults are organized by topic so that they can easily be used all year long. Many books on the recommended lists are bilingual or are available in Spanish.