5 Must-Read Children’s Stories for Hispanic Heritage Month!
Books open doors to understanding, connection, and joy. Stories help us celebrate where we come from and where we can go. This October, we’re honoring Hispanic Heritage Month with beautiful, vibrant stories that inspire our young readers to dream big, embrace their culture, and connect with others.
These books are perfect for Pre-K through 1st grade, and they highlight universal themes of family, belonging, and resilience. Whether you’re snuggled up for bedtime or looking for meaningful classroom reads, these stories are full of heart and imagination!
1. Dreamers
Author: Yuyi Morales
Ages: 4–8 years
Summary:
A lyrical and beautifully illustrated tale of resilience and hope, Dreamers follows a mother and child as they migrate to a new country. Inspired by the author’s own story, this book reminds us that we are all dreamers and that courage and creativity can build a new home.
2. Carmela Full of Wishes
Author: Matt de la Peña
Ages: 3–6 years
Summary:
On her birthday, Carmela tags along with her older brother and discovers the magic of making wishes. This heartfelt story celebrates family, imagination, and finding wonder in everyday moments.
3. Islandborn
Author: Junot Díaz
Ages: 2–8 years
Summary:
Lola can’t remember the island she left as a baby but through the rich stories of her community, she begins to discover its beauty and her own connection to it. Islandborn is a loving reminder that home is more than a place, it’s a feeling that lives within us.
4. Mango, Abuela, and Me
Author: Meg Medina
Ages: 5–8 years
Summary:
When Mia’s grandmother moves in, they must learn to communicate across a language barrier. With love, patience, and a clever parrot, Mia and Abuela build a beautiful bond. This touching story explores intergenerational love and the power of shared connection.
5. Dear Primo: A Letter to My Cousin
Author: Duncan Tonatiuh
Ages: 4–8 years
Summary:
Through letters, cousins Charlie in the U.S. and Carlitos in Mexico share their daily lives. Though different in food, games, and routines, they discover how much they truly have in common.
Why These Stories Matter
Representation in books empowers children to see themselves and their communities in the stories they read. It also helps children explore cultures different from their own with curiosity and respect. These books help foster:
Empathy and cultural awareness
Language development and storytelling skills
Family and classroom conversations about heritage
A love for reading through relatable, engaging characters
Let’s Read Together
This Hispanic Heritage Month, we encourage you to explore these stories with your child. Visit your local library, support Hispanic authors, and most importantly, create time each day for reading and sharing stories!
Let’s celebrate our differences, find joy in our shared experiences, and raise children who honor culture, kindness, and curiosity.