Written by Stephen Briseño, Illustrated by Sonia Sánchez, Translated by Maria Correa
This story is a testament that the kitchen of Abuela is the heart of the family! This beautiful story about a grandmother that works hard selling tamales in the months approaching the Christmas season in order to give gifts to each of her many family members is a beautiful story of hard work born out of love for her family that many of our students can relate to. The rhythmic and repetitive line throughout the book, “Con masa en una mano y hojas de maíz en la otra” is like a chorus that sings the story of her dedication and consistency. The many, many dozens of tamales she makes in the record-breaking year (based on a true story from the author’s grandmother) is impressive (you’ll have to read the book to find out just how many she made!) I also love that the setting of the book is the U.S. so it’s a mix of celebrating in traditional ways from Mexican heritage as well as the traditions that are celebrated here in the U.S. This would be a wonderful book to use in a Dual Immersion classroom, and also a great story to check out from the library for our many multi-lingual students.
Reviewed by Daisy Reyes, Technology Coach, Wright Elementary
Review shared in November 2024
Rating: ★★★★★ (5 stars)
Interest Level: Grades K-5
See also our review of the English edition of this book: Tamales for Christmas
Tamales Para Navidad
Written by Stephen Briseño, Illustrated by Sonia Sánchez, Translated by Maria Correa
Random House Studio
40 pages
Release Date: October 8, 2024
ISBN: 9780593897515
A review copy was provided by the publisher.
