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The Ofrenda That We Built — Spooky For Kids

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The Ofrenda That We Built

Name: The Ofrenda That We Built
Price: 14.99 USD
Availability: InStock
ISBN: 9781797215624

✍️ Jolene Gutiérrez, Shaian Gutiérrez, Gabby Zapata

Reader Score

4.6

(1 review)

$14.99 ~~$17.99~~ Save $3.00 (16%)

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📚 WHAT THE BOOK IS ABOUT

This enchanting picture book beautifully illuminates the traditions of Día de Muertos, inviting young readers into a vibrant family celebration. Following a cumulative rhyme structure, much like a classic nursery tale, it lovingly details the step-by-step creation of an 'ofrenda' – a home altar adorned with meaningful symbols. More than just a holiday story, it's a tender exploration of intergenerational love, cultural heritage, and the enduring connection we share with those who have passed. Through its heartwarming narrative and immersive art, the book fosters understanding and appreciation for this profound celebration of life and memory.

Praise for this book

“A lively and illuminating look at a holiday tradition.”

— Kirkus Reviews

🏛 Chronicle Books 📅 2024 📖 48 pages 📔 Hardcover ISBN: 9781797215624

Fun Fact

This delightful picture book masterfully introduces the beauty of Día de Muertos through an engaging narrative. Its rhyming structure and vibrant illustrations make complex cultural traditions approachable for young readers, fostering empathy and understanding. While not a deep dive into historical theology, it excels as a heartwarming celebration of family, memory, and cultural heritage. An essential addition to any children's library promoting diversity and connection, perfect for autumn reading or anytime remembrance is valued.

📝 Description: The Ofrenda That We Built

"A rich, rhythmic ode celebrating Día de Muertos." --School Library Journal, Starred Review Learn about and celebrate the Day of the Dead! With warmth and energy, this spirited picture book is a joyful ode to family traditions and the memory of loved ones who have passed but whom we continue to remember. It is Día de Muertos--the Day of the Dead--and the family ofrenda is at the center of the celebration! Inspired by the popular nursery rhyme "The House That Jack Built," The Ofrenda That We Built invites readers to join in the building of a colorful ofrenda, a home altar full of symbols and meaning, one special element at a time. This is truly an intergenerational holiday with deep familial love at its heart. Readers will recognize these moving and universal themes in the hands-on activity of building an ofrenda together, an accessible way of learning more about other cultures and celebrations. Told in warm and welcoming rhyme, with beautiful, immersive illustrations, this is a delight for readers of all backgrounds to enjoy when the holiday arrives each autumn or any time of year that calls for remembrance and connection with loved ones. LA FAMILIA IS LOVE: Every element of the ofrenda speaks to a tradition of togetherness and the enduring importance of community. Combining the poignancy of the past with love in the present, those celebrating Día de Muertos also make a promise to be a part of one another's futures. CELEBRATES THE CIRCLE OF LIFE: Like Pixar's Coco, this is a joyful celebration of Día de Muertos, which encourages us to see death as a natural and necessary part of the circle of life to embrace rather than to fear. With an emphasis on remembering the lives of our loved ones with joy, this holiday makes room for both collective grief and collective celebration--a powerful (and always timely) perspective on the nature of being alive that will resonate with children and adults alike. SPIRITED READ ALOUD: Pairing poetic text full of repetition, rhyme, and evocative description with bright, engaging illustrations, this story is just right for group and lap-reads, sure to appeal to booksellers, teachers, and librarians as well as parents and caregivers.

💎 Expert review

“

💎

Esoterica Books editorial team

Occult literature desk

While beautifully crafted, this title is strictly a gentle introduction to Día de Muertos, focusing on domestic ritual rather than historical or political context. It may not suit readers seeking complex philosophical treatises on death or those unfamiliar with cumulative rhyme structures, which can feel repetitive to some audiences. The book’s strength lies in its warmth and accessibility, making it less appropriate for older teens looking for nuanced critiques of cultural appropriation or academic analysis. However, for those valuing emotional resonance and visual immersion over intellectual depth, it succeeds magnificently as a tool for understanding life, memory, and family ties.

✓ EDITOR'S REVIEW

📖 Why choose it

📖

Why this book is worth reading

This enchanting picture book offers a heartwarming entry point into the vibrant traditions of Día de Muertos for young readers and their families. By following a cumulative rhyme structure similar to classic nursery tales, it lovingly details the step-by-step creation of an ofrenda, transforming abstract concepts of memory and loss into tangible, colorful actions. It is ideal for educators seeking to foster cultural appreciation and for families wishing to explore intergenerational love and heritage. The immersive art and tender narrative make profound themes of connection with those who have passed accessible and comforting, ensuring that the enduring bond between generations is celebrated through a beautiful, shared experience.

⭐ Reader reviews

The starting rating comes from the team Esoterica Books —

⭐ Esoterica editorial review Editorial rating 4.6/5

★★★★★

If you seek a heartwarming introduction to Día de Muertos for young minds, or wish to explore themes of family, remembrance, and cultural heritage, this book is for you. Perfect for parents, educators, and children eager to learn about diverse traditions and celebrate enduring love.

Reader rating

4.6

Based on 1 reviews

Esoterica Books editorial team

While beautifully crafted, this title is strictly a gentle introduction to Día de Muertos, focusing on domestic ritual rather than historical or political context. It may not suit readers seeking complex philosophical treatises on death or those unfamiliar with cumulative rhyme structures, which can feel repetitive to some audiences. The book’s strength lies in its warmth and accessibility, making it less appropriate for older teens looking for nuanced critiques of cultural appropriation or academic analysis. However, for those valuing emotional resonance and visual immersion over intellectual depth, it succeeds magnificently as a tool for understanding life, memory, and family ties.

❓ Frequently asked questions

While Día de Muertos has spiritual elements, this book focuses on cultural celebration, family traditions, and remembrance rather than specific religious dogma. It's broadly accessible, emphasizing universal themes of love and memory.

This picture book is ideal for young readers, typically ages 4-8, and can be enjoyed by families together. Its rhythmic text and vibrant illustrations engage a wide range of early childhood learners and foster cultural appreciation.

📖 Who should read this

🎯 Key themes and symbolism

Honoring Día de Muertos

The book serves as a gentle introduction to the rich customs of the Day of the Dead. It demystifies the 'ofrenda' as a central element, showcasing how families actively participate in creating a sacred space to remember and celebrate their ancestors. Readers gain insight into the purpose and joy behind this significant cultural and spiritual event.

Intergenerational Love & Memory

At its heart, this story is a testament to the powerful bonds of family across generations. It emphasizes that remembering loved ones who have passed is an act of profound love, not sorrow. The collaborative building of the ofrenda becomes a shared ritual that strengthens familial ties and ensures that cherished memories live on.

Accessible Cultural Immersion

Utilizing a familiar cumulative rhyme structure, the narrative makes a complex cultural tradition accessible and engaging for young audiences. It invites readers of all backgrounds to experience the beauty and meaning of Día de Muertos, fostering cross-cultural understanding through an approachable, hands-on activity. A true celebration of heritage.

📜 Historical context

Día de Muertos, or Day of the Dead, has roots in ancient Mesoamerican traditions, blending indigenous beliefs with Catholic observances. This book contributes to a growing body of children's literature respectfully portraying these vital cultural practices. By focusing on the 'ofrenda' and family involvement, it highlights the holiday's spiritual significance as a bridge between worlds, celebrating life and ancestry through shared ritual.

📚 Glossary

Día de Muertos
Ofrenda
Intergenerational

📔 Questions to reflect on

How do your own family traditions help you remember and connect with loved ones, both living and passed?
What personal items or symbols would you choose to include on an 'ofrenda' to honor someone special in your life, and why?
How can learning about other cultures' celebrations, like Día de Muertos, deepen your understanding of universal themes like love and remembrance?