I’m excited to share some of the best Hispanic children’s books with Latino characters that focus on empowering and encouraging kids to embrace and fall in love with their Latino identity. These children’s books by Latino authors highlight the experiences of Latino youth growing up in the U.S., navigating the challenges of being bicultural and bilingual. This list includes some of my favorite Latino children’s books for every age from preschoolers to young adults. And all of the books on this list are also fantastic options for celebrating Hispanic Heritage month in the classroom or at home by exposing all children to experiences of growing up Latino in the US.
As an immigrant from Guatemala raising two bilingual kids in the U.S., I understand the challenges Latino children face growing up between two worlds. They are constantly navigating their Latino roots while trying to fit into American society. Books with Latino characters help them see reflections of their own experiences in their reading. It’s not an experience I had growing up, but I see my kids go through it every day. Sometimes, it’s hard to help them find their way through being bicultural and bilingual because I didn’t grow up in this environment. That’s why I believe it’s crucial for our children to see themselves in the books they read. When they find characters who look like them, speak like them, and share similar experiences, it helps them feel seen, valued, and understood.
For children who are immigrants or first-generation Americans, these books celebrating Latino identity can be a lifeline. Growing up in a new country, away from extended family, culture, and traditions, can sometimes make kids feel disconnected from their roots. I’ve seen this with my own children; they long for the stories and traditions of Guatemala, the ones that I took for granted as a child. But through children’s books with Hispanic characters, they can explore and reconnect with their culture. They learn that being different is not just okay, but something to be celebrated.
Hispanic childrens books provide that representation, allowing Latino kids to connect with their heritage and culture in a way that feels authentic and meaningful. These children’s books with Hispanic characters have the power to show our children that their unique experiences are shared by others. During Hispanic Heritage Month, it’s especially important to celebrate and uplift stories written by Latino authors that highlight the diverse experiences of books for Latino youth. These books reflect the beauty and complexity of growing up between two cultures, showcasing the strength and resilience of our community.
Helping Kids Embrace their Latino Identity through Hispanic Children’s Books
Reading latino children’s books that celebrate Hispanic culture helps our kids embrace their roots with pride. These stories teach them about their history, traditions, and the vibrant diversity of the Latinx community. At the same time, they help our children appreciate the value of diversity and what it means to live in a multicultural society. It’s a wonderful way for them to feel proud of both sides of their identity—their Latino heritage and their American life.
For children who are immigrants or first-generation Americans, these books celebrating Latino identity can be a lifeline. Growing up in a new country, away from extended family, culture, and traditions, can sometimes make kids feel disconnected from their roots. I’ve seen this with my own children; they long for the stories and traditions of Guatemala, the ones that I took for granted as a child. But through children’s books with Hispanic characters, they can explore and reconnect with their culture. They learn that being different is not just okay, but something to be celebrated.
Children’s Books by Latino Authors That Bring Two Worlds Together
Hispanic childrens books often reflect the dual experiences of Latino kids who grow up balancing two identities. Whether it’s speaking Spanish at home but English at school, celebrating both Hispanic and American holidays, or blending traditional Latino foods with American favorites, our children live in a beautiful mix of cultures. These stories help them see that it’s possible to honor both their Latino heritage and their American upbringing, bringing together their two worlds.
It includes Hispanic children’s books written by Latino authors that my kids and I have enjoyed. These books beautifully capture the experiences of Latino youth growing up in the U.S., showcasing the challenges and joys of being bicultural. I hope these books help your children feel seen, appreciated, and proud of who they are, just as they have for my family.
Book Recommendations by Age
This list of the best Hispanic children’s books includes books for Latino children that highlight the importance of embracing their roots, even when growing up in the U.S. Many of these books also touch on themes of immigration, making them excellent immigration books for children as well. From Hispanic books for preschoolers to Latino books for young adults all of these Latinx books for children focus on the unique experience of Latino kids living in the US. I’ve include immigration books for children that talk about the experience of uprooting from their home country to finding themselves in a new home to children’s books that celebrate Latino culture. All of them are children’s books by Latino authors that portray Latino characters that Hispanic children can identify.
I have also included a mix of books that highlight specific Latino cultures from Mexican children’s books to books that highlight Puerto Rican, Dominican and a wide array of other Latino backgrounds.
Hispanic Heritage Month Picture Books (Ages 4-8)
This is a compilation of beautiful Hispanic Heritage Month picture books perfect for toddlers, preschoolers and younger kids. All of these are picture books with Hispanic characters and beautiful illustrations that young children are sure to enjoy.
“Areli is a Dreamer” by Areli Morales, illustrated by Luisa Uribe
This moving autobiographical picture book tells the story of Areli, a young girl who is brought to the U.S. from Mexico as an undocumented immigrant. She shares her journey of adapting to a new country while holding onto her dreams and navigating her undocumented status. This book is an empowering story for Latino youth and a powerful reminder of the strength and courage it takes to pursue one’s dreams against all odds.
“Brown Girl, Brown Girl” by Leslé Honoré, illustrated by Cozbi A. Cabrera
This powerful and hopeful picture book by Blaxican poet and activist Leslé Honoré is a moving journey through the past, present, and future of brown and Black girls everywhere. It’s a beautiful way for young Latino girls to see themselves reflected in literature, reminding them of their strength and resilience.
“Sumo Libre” by Joe Cepeda
What happens when you mix sumo wrestling with Lucha libre? This funny and exuberant story celebrates two iconic wrestling styles, perfect for kids who love a good laugh and enjoy stories that blend different cultures, similar to Yuyi Morales’s “Niño Wrestles the World.”
“A Crown for Corina” by Laekan Zea Kemp, illustrated by Elisa Chavarri
This charming story about a girl who learns a beloved family tradition and the symbolism behind the Mexican flower crown is perfect for young readers. Created by two Pura Belpré award-winning creators, it beautifully blends culture, tradition, and family.
“¡Vamos! Let’s Go to the Market” by Raúl the Third
In this vibrant and colorful book, young readers join Little Lobo and his dog, Bernabé, as they make their way through a bustling Mexican market. They encounter a rich tapestry of sights, sounds, and smells that reflect a lively Latino community. This book is a fun way to introduce young children to everyday Latino culture, showcasing the beauty and diversity of markets and street vendors in Latin American countries.
“Round Is a Tortilla: A Book of Shapes” by Roseanne Greenfield Thong
This delightful book introduces children to different shapes through the lens of Latino culture. From tortillas and quesadillas to ventanas (windows) and estrellas (stars), each page is filled with colorful illustrations that celebrate everyday life in a Latino household. It’s a great way to teach young kids about shapes while also connecting them to their culture through familiar and beloved objects.
“Plátanos Are Love” by Alyssa Reynoso-Morris, illustrated by Mariyah Rahman
A beautiful celebration of culture, family, and food, this picture book follows a young girl as she learns how to cook plátanos (plantains) with her abuela. Through the process, she discovers the significance of this beloved food in her family’s history and culture. With vibrant illustrations and a heartwarming narrative, this story is perfect for young readers who want to explore the flavors and traditions of their Hispanic heritage.
“Mango, Abuela, and Me” by Meg Medina, illustrated by Angela Dominguez
This heartwarming picture book tells the story of Mia and her Abuela, who comes to live with her family. Mia and her grandmother struggle to communicate at first because Mia speaks English and Abuela speaks Spanish. Through love, patience, and the help of a little parrot named Mango, they find creative ways to bridge the language gap and connect. This story beautifully illustrates the bond between generations and the power of language and love to bring people together.
“Spanish is the Language of My Family” by Michael Genhart, illustrated by John Parra
This touching picture book celebrates the importance of family, culture, and heritage. It follows the story of a young boy who participates in a Spanish spelling bee with his family cheering him on. Through the competition, he learns about the beauty of his native language and the pride it brings to his family. This book is a wonderful reminder for Latino youth of the importance of preserving and celebrating their language and cultural roots.
“Gloriana, Presente” by Alyssa Reynoso-Morris
Enter the classroom in this joyful story about growth and finding your voice. With Spanish words sprinkled throughout the text, this radiant picture book is perfect for young readers learning to navigate their own bicultural experiences. It’s great for fans of “Mango, Abuela, and Me.”
Uno Más, One More” by Silvia López, illustrated by Olivia Sua
Join a family for a fiesta in their one-room casita in this lively Latino retelling of the beloved folktale “Always Room for One More.” This book celebrates the importance of kindness and community, featuring Spanish words throughout the text. It’s a wonderful story that highlights the warmth and generosity often found in Latino families.
“I Can Be All Three” by Gabriela Garcia Medina, illustrated by Alexandra Anaya
In this inspiring picture book, a young girl embraces her multicultural heritage by realizing she doesn’t have to choose just one identity—she can be all three. With a mom from Cuba, a dad from Mexico, and growing up in the U.S., she learns to blend her cultural influences and take pride in all parts of her identity. It’s a powerful story for any child learning to navigate and celebrate multiple cultures.
Hispanic Books for Middle School
For middle school readers, these Latino children’s books offer powerful stories that celebrate Hispanic identity and the immigrant experience. Each novel features inspiring books with Hispanic characters who navigate the challenges of growing up between cultures, offering insights into family, perseverance, and finding pride in their heritage. These stories are perfect for fostering empathy and cultural understanding in kids up to 12.
“Esperanza Rising” by Pam Muñoz Ryan
This is the story of Esperanza, a young girl who immigrates from Mexico to California during the Great Depression. She goes from a life of privilege to one of hardship, working in the fields and learning to adapt to a new life. This novel is a touching tale of resilience and hope, showing kids how to find strength in their roots even when facing adversity. It’s perfect for kids who are starting to understand the sacrifices their families made for a better life.
“The First Rule of Punk” by Celia C. Pérez
Malu, a half-Mexican, half-white punk rock enthusiast, moves to a new city and struggles to fit in with her new school while staying true to herself. Through Malu’s journey, kids learn about balancing different aspects of their identity and embracing their unique qualities. This book is an inspiring story about being proud of who you are and finding your place in the world, especially when you feel like you don’t quite fit in.
“Efren Divided” by Ernesto Cisneros
Efren Nava is a young boy whose life is turned upside down when his mother is deported to Mexico. As Efren navigates his new reality, he faces the challenges of taking care of his siblings while holding on to hope that his family will be reunited. This heartfelt story sheds light on the struggles of immigrant families and the strength that comes from love and perseverance. It’s a powerful reminder for our kids of the importance of family and the resilience of the human spirit.
“The House on Mango Street” by Sandra Cisneros
A classic in Latino literature, this novel follows the story of Esperanza Cordero, a young Latina girl growing up in a Chicago neighborhood. Through a series of vignettes, Esperanza reflects on her life and the lives of those around her, capturing the struggles and hopes of her community. This book is a must-read for Latino youth as it explores themes of identity, belonging, and the desire to rise above one’s circumstances while staying true to one’s roots.
“Confetti Girl” by Diana Lopez
Set in South Texas, this novel follows a young Latina girl navigating growing pains, friendships, and family dynamics. “Confetti Girl” offers a clever and honest look at the challenges of being a young Latina, making it a relatable read for middle-grade readers experiencing similar struggles.
Hispanic Books for Young Adult (Ages 13+)
For high school readers, these Hispanic books for young adults delve into themes of Latino identity, immigration, and family dynamics. Featuring books with Latino characters and written by Hispanic authors, these stories offer powerful narratives about the challenges and triumphs of growing up between cultures. Perfect for teens, these Latino books for high school provide an honest look at the immigrant experience and the complexities of embracing one’s heritage.
“I Am Not Your Perfect Mexican Daughter” by Erika L. Sánchez
Julia Reyes is a Mexican American teenager dealing with the pressure of being the “perfect” daughter after her sister’s tragic death. As Julia uncovers secrets about her sister, she learns more about her family’s history and starts to understand her place within it. This book is a raw and honest exploration of cultural expectations, family secrets, and the complexities of growing up in two worlds.
“Clap When You Land” by Elizabeth Acevedo
This novel tells the story of two sisters, one living in New York City and the other in the Dominican Republic, who discover each other’s existence after their father dies in a plane crash. The book explores themes of grief, family, and the bonds that connect us even when we are worlds apart. It’s a beautiful story that highlights the importance of embracing all parts of our identity and the ties that bind us across cultures.
“The Epic Fail of Arturo Zamora” by Pablo Cartaya
While not explicitly about Dreamers, this novel follows Arturo, a Cuban-American teenager, as he fights to save his family’s restaurant from a big developer. Through his journey, the book explores themes of family, cultural heritage, and the immigrant experience, showcasing the challenges of growing up in a bicultural environment.
“¡Ay, Mija!: My Bilingual Summer in Mexico” by Christine Suggs
In this bilingual and heartfelt graphic novel, Christine Suggs explores a trip they took to Mexico to visit family. The story captures the experience of embracing and rebelling against their heritage while finding a sense of belonging. It’s an engaging read for teens, especially those who are exploring their own identities and navigating the complexities of being bilingual and bicultural.
“The Poet X” by Elizabeth Acevedo
In this novel-in-verse, Xiomara Batista, a Dominican American teen, finds her voice through slam poetry. She struggles with the expectations of her strict immigrant parents and her desire to express herself and explore her own identity. This book captures the internal conflict many teens face when trying to honor their cultural traditions while also defining their own paths. It’s a compelling read that speaks to the power of words and self-expression.
“We Are Not From Here” by Jenny Torres Sanchez
This powerful novel tells the harrowing story of three teens from Guatemala who undertake a dangerous journey to the United States. Although not directly about Dreamers, it captures the experience of young immigrants seeking a better life, highlighting the risks, fears, and hopes involved in the pursuit of safety and belonging.
I hope these Hispanic children’s books bring joy and understanding to your family, just as they have to mine. These stories are not just about being Latino or Latinx; they’re about celebrating who we are, embracing our roots, and finding strength in our unique experiences. Happy reading, and ¡Feliz lectura!
Paula studied architecture and now makes a living as a freelance writer,traveler and amateur photographer.She started her writing & publishing career as the editor of Bebé y Mamá, the first parenting magazine in Guatemala.She is the founder of www.GrowingUpBilingual.com and www.365thingsswfl.com and writes articles in Spanish and English for both magazines and the web on travel,food and bicultural and bilingual parenting .
When she is not on a plane or road trip she likes to create recipes inspired in the flavors of her native Guatemala.
- 10 Best Free Things to Do in Orlando With Kids - October 1, 2024
- Mexican Pumpkin Flan Recipe (Flan de Calabaza) – A Creamy Fall Dessert for Día de Muertos - September 30, 2024
- Chocobanano Recipe: How to Make This Delicious Guatemalan Street Food - September 26, 2024
