Dia de Los Muertos Books & Activities

Dia de Los Muertos, or the Day of the Dead is a holiday celebrated on November 1st and 2nd in Mexico. Dia de Los Muertos is celebrated to honor family members who have passed away. 

Families make ofrendas or altars with offerings for their loved ones. The altars are adorned with sugar skulls, marigolds, and photographs of their lost family members. It is believed that the offerings will attract their deceased family members to reunite with the living family.

Traditions for Dia de Los Muertos also include dressing up in bright makeup, wearing costumes, singing, dancing, and parades. 

This year, I want to share a new release with you by Ana Aranda called, “Our Day of the Dead Celebration.”  The story follows a family during their celebrations for the Day of the Dead. They have lots to do to get ready. They go to the market to pick up marigolds and sugar skulls, they cook sweet tamales and almond cookies, they play music and write poems. They wait for their guests to arrive. They’’re especially excited when Abueltia arrives to share all of the family stories. The day is spent singing, dancing, and celebrating those living and dead.

Our Day of the Dead Celebration paints a picture of the holiday through words and beautiful illustrations.

Another Day of the Dead favorite is our Gustavo!! Gustavo the Shy Ghost by Flavia Z. Drago became an instant favorite a few years ago and after reading, you’ll know why! Flavia Z. Drago came out with another fabulous book this year, Leila the Perfect Witch! If you’re looking for some fun with Gustavo and Leila, you can check it out here!