* Parra celebrates the ephemeral in this comforting observance of Día de los Muertos.... Each spread makes the most of the moment, reflecting in English and italicized Spanish on every occurrence and the child’s perception of it, and aptly underlining themes of intergenerational connection, mindfulness, and remembrance.
Description
Through all moments of the day, both large and small, a boy prepares for a Day of the Dead celebration, in this “comforting” (Publishers Weekly, starred review) and “heartfelt…both gentle and profound” (School Library Journal) picture book from Pura Belpré Honor–winning author-illustrator John Parra.
A single day in a boy’s life is filled with family, love, and inspiration as he prepares for the Día de Muertos celebration and remembers that all moments are special. Each moment reminds us of our family and those who have gone before us. Today holds a special promise, una promesa especial.
Reviews
A beautiful and reflective read, perfect for celebrating Día de Muertos or simply savoring life’s precious moments. Purchase to enrich holiday collections.
Parra’s book veers away from a basic lesson on Dia de los Muertos, and instead offers a story featuring the tiny, seemingly insignificant moments that acts more as reflection on how small tasks and minute joys make up a day, and collectively, a life.
A heartfelt journey through the eyes of a young child preparing for a Day of the Dead celebration who finds beauty and meaning in everyday moments. Whether tending a garden, studying, reading, or playing, each activity becomes a quiet tribute to cherished loved ones. Parra’s storytelling is both gentle and profound, with each spread offering a few sentences in English, culminating in a poignant phrase repeated in Spanish. This thoughtful repetition reinforces the book’s central theme: the importance of slowing down, appreciating the present, and holding close the people we love. The illustrations, rendered in Parra’s signature worn-texture technique and a soothing palette of cool tones, radiate warmth and nostalgia. There’s a quiet joy woven into the pages, mirroring the deep familial bonds at the heart of this book. VERDICT A beautiful and reflective read, perfect for celebrating Día de Muertos or simply savoring life’s precious moments. Purchase to enrich holiday collections.