Hi Reader,

Because Latine/Hispanic Heritage Month starts in the middle of a calendar month, it can be easy to miss.

This celebration of heritage, culture, and history begins on September 15th and ends on October 15th. (The beginning date was chosen because several Latin American countries celebrate their independence days on September 15th, 16th, and 18th.)

As always, I believe that reading books together is one of the best ways to participate in this celebration. I've updated and expanded two book lists for you:

​31 engaging picture books starring Latine characters​

In this list, you'll find comforting reads about family and home for preschool ages, picture books that address social issues like workers' rights and community organizing, stories that focus on specific cultures, and much more.

One of my favorite books on this list stars a kid who doesn't realize how exhausted she is by always serving as her parent's interpreter. Another book I love features a child who wants to start a scout troop with the three key hallmarks of "stickers, luck, friendship." 😂

28 middle grade/chapter books for Latino/Hispanic Heritage Month​

You'll find so much variety on this list, with graphic novels, traditional novels (illustrated and non-illustrated), and novels-in-verse.

There are exiting fantasy reads (fire serpents, mermaids, and secret portals await!) The non-fiction and historical fiction books explore a strike during the Great Depression, the Cuban Revolution's impact on some families, and the lives of the people who built the Panama Canal.

You'll also find lots of realistic recommended reads that take place in the present and tackle common challenges like perfectionism, body acceptance, and Latine identify for kids who aren't fluent in Spanish.

Of course, all of these books make great reads year round. Heritage months should always be about amplifying the study of cultures, history, and perspectives that should take place all the time.

Happy reading,

Rebekah

P.S. The U.S. midterm elections are just 56 days away. This is a great time to start talking with young people about voting and voting rights.

Rebekah Gienapp (she/her/hers) | rebekahgienapp.com | Connect on Instagram | Coffees for Gaza | Knit 4 Justice​