Written by Stephen Briseño, Illustrated by Sonia Sánchez
This beautiful story tracks time by the tamales Grandma makes by the dozens. Her tamales help her earn extra money for gifts not just for her family, but for her community also. Her work provides joy throughout the autumn months and up to Christmas, when she finally takes a day of rest.
Both the author and illustrator should be applauded for their work. I love the design in tracking the quantities and appreciate the grandmother’s energy and her contribution to financial happiness. The author words are storytelling at its best. The vintage style illustrations take me back to a time when my own grandmother was living. This is one of many positive Hispanic American books that I have read of late. I will be scheduling this for a story time soon.
Reviewed by Kristen Hunt, Librarian, Whittier Elementary School
Review shared in October 2024
Rating: ★★★★★ (5 stars)
Interest Level: Grades K-3
See also our review of the Spanish edition of this book: Tamales Para Navidad
Tamales for Christmas
Written by Stephen Briseño, Illustrated by Sonia Sánchez
Random House Studio
40 pages
Release Date: October 8, 2024
ISBN: 9780593647813
A review copy was provided by the publisher.