Calavera Abecedario: A Day of the Dead Alphabet Book
on Goodreads (143)
What’s inside...
Every year, Don Pedro and his family create papier-mâché skeletons, or calaveras, for Mexico's Day of the Dead fiesta. These intricate and colorful calaveras represent different characters for each letter of the alphabet, from the Angel and Doctor to the Mariachi and Unicornio. This charming book invites readers to join in the celebration and dance with the calaveras, while also providing a glossary of Spanish words and an author's note to enhance understanding of the cultural significance behind the tradition.
Age
4-7
Length
48 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
Don Pedro Linares
Discussion points
Which letter and Calavera character did you find most interesting and why?
How do you think the Calaveras feel about being part of the Day of the Dead celebration?
What similarities and differences do you notice between our celebrations and the Day of the Dead?
Why do you think it's important to remember people who are no longer with us?
If you could create a Calavera character for a letter, what would it be and what qualities would they have?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their thoughts and feelings about each Calavera character, fostering a deeper understanding and connection to the cultural significance behind them.
Discuss the artwork and colors used in the book, asking your child how these visual elements make them feel or what they make them think of, tying in the emotional and celebratory aspects of the Day of the Dead.
Link the discussion to personal experiences with family celebrations or memories of loved ones, making the conversation relevant and meaningful.
Use the alphabet format of the book to play a creative game where you and your child think of other items or symbols that could represent each letter, enhancing their engagement and learning.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Understanding of cultural diversity
Explanation: The book introduces the Mexican Day of the Dead tradition through the alphabet, offering children insight into cultural practices different from their own.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by showing respect and interest in learning about the diverse cultural backgrounds of their classmates and neighbors.
Example Lesson: Learning the alphabet
Explanation: Each letter of the alphabet is associated with elements of the Day of the Dead celebration, helping children learn and remember their ABCs in a contextually rich setting.
Real-World Application: Kids can practice their alphabets using themed or cultural items at home, making learning fun and relevant to their surroundings.
Example Lesson: Importance of remembrance
Explanation: The story emphasizes the Day of the Dead’s focus on remembering and honoring deceased loved ones, showcasing the value of memory and celebration in coping with loss.
Real-World Application: Children can be encouraged to remember and speak about lost loved ones or even pets, using stories or drawings to express their feelings and keep memories alive.
Example Lesson: Creativity and artistic expression
Explanation: The book features intricate illustrations of Mexico’s traditional calaveras, inspiring creativity through visual art connected to cultural practices.
Real-World Application: Children can engage in arts and crafts to create their own calavera designs or other art projects that reflect their personal experiences or cultural heritage.