This Latino holiday, observed each year from October 31 through November 2, is celebrated with food, song and candles lit to remember and honor the spirits of departed loved ones and ancestors. The English and Spanish text, rhymed in both languages, touches on the highlights of the three-day festival, which culminates with a family celebration at the cemetery. “Mark a path for the spirits / with the petals of flowers. // We dance, sing, // and remember / the loved ones for hours.” Barner’s collage art is created from cut, torn or crumpled papers combined with pastel dust, pencil and printing inks and is rendered in bold, bright Mexican colors. The illustrations supply a festive atmosphere peopled with dancing skeletons and Latino-featured children. The skeletal images reflect those created by the Mexican artist José Guadalupe Posada, including the popular lady skeleton, La Catrina, a major character of the holiday. A joyous and vibrant introduction, ideal for preschoolers just learning about the custom. (author’s note) (Picture book. 3-6)
