Reviews

K-Gr 3-Combining woodblock-style illustrations and a text addressed to "you," this easy-to-read title introduces various aspects of the D'a de los Muertos celebrations common to Mexican and many Mexican-American communities. Noting roots in both Aztec and Catholic traditions, Lowery shows how the cycle of the growing season is tied to the cycle of human birth, life, and death and explains how the memorialization of the dead during this period of festivity is a time for joy rather than sorrow. Non-Latino youngsters will enjoy the links between Halloween and the Day of the Dead traditions and will shiver with pleasure at the decorations and treats-prominently featuring bones and skeletons-that may seem slightly ghoulish to those unfamiliar with the holiday. Knutson's lively illustrations reflect Mexican art, harvest celebrations, and the warm colors of autumn. Both Diane Hoyt-Goldsmith's Day of the Dead (Holiday, 1994) and Katherine Lasky's Days of the Dead (Hyperion, 1994; o.p.) focus on the celebrations of specific families (in California and Mexico, respectively), feature photographs rather than illustrations, and are designed for older children.-Coop Renner, Fairmeadows Elementary, Duncanville, TX Copyright 2003 Reed Business Information.

The latest addition to the On My Own Holidays series, Day of the Dead by Linda Lowery, illus. by Barbara Knutson, describes the origins of this Mexican holiday (El dia de los muertos), which honors family members who have died. People attend parades, picnic near loved ones' final resting places, and share traditional treats such as chocolate calaveras (skulls). Brief text and folk-art illustrations make the holiday accessible and also accentuate its joyful aspects. Copyright 2003 Reed Business Information.