Los Gatos Black on Halloween
on Goodreads (1,254)
What’s inside...
Follow los monstruos and los esqueletos to the Halloween party in this bilingual poem written by Marisa Montes, with illustrations by award-winning author and illustrator Yuyi Morales. Set under the bright October moon, monsters are hosting a ball at the Haunted Hall. Witches arrive on broomsticks, the undead rise from coffins, and skeletons rattle their bones. The poem introduces Spanish words and celebrates the spooky delights of Halloween. Los Gatos Black on Halloween is a notable book, earning distinctions such as the 2007 Bank Street Best Children's Book of the Year, the 2008 Pura Belpre Medal for Illustration, and a Pura Belpre Honor Book for Narrative.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
4-8
Length
32 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What emotions did you feel when reading about the spooky characters in the story?
Which character in 'Los Gatos Black on Halloween' was your favorite, and why?
How do you think the monsters and ghouls felt about the party in the story?
What do you think happens next after the witch's spell at the end of the book?
If you could create your own spooky character for the story, what would it be like?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to describe the illustrations and ask how they add to the mood of the story.
Discuss the rhythm and rhyme in the book, perhaps reading passages aloud together to enjoy the musical quality of the text.
Use the book as an opportunity to explore different cultural aspects of Halloween and compare them with your own traditions.
Ask your child to predict what might happen next at several points during the story to develop their critical thinking.
Create a fun activity by having your child draw and color their favorite scene or character from the book.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Cultural Appreciation
Explanation: Through the inclusion of Spanish words and cultural elements, 'Los Gatos Black on Halloween' immerses readers in a unique cultural experience, promoting appreciation and understanding.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this appreciation by showing interest and respect towards different cultures they encounter in their community and schools.
Example Lesson: Importance of Imagination
Explanation: The fantastical elements of the book, like witches and goblins, encourage children to use their imagination, fostering creativity and abstract thinking.
Real-World Application: Children can use imaginative play and creative activities at home or in school to explore new ideas and express themselves.
Example Lesson: Overcoming Fears
Explanation: The spooky but fun and engaging narrative helps children confront and manage their fears of mythical creatures and the dark, demonstrating how fear often stems from the unknown.
Real-World Application: This lesson prepares children to face and manage common childhood fears, such as fear of the dark, by understanding and discussing what frightens them.
Example Lesson: Language Skills
Explanation: By blending English and Spanish text, the book provides an excellent opportunity for language development in bilingual settings or for Spanish language learners.
Real-World Application: Children can enhance their language skills and vocabulary in both English and Spanish, aiding in cognitive development and academic success.
Example Lesson: Joy of Shared Experiences
Explanation: The book illustrates the fun and excitement of shared cultural festivities like Halloween, emphasizing the value of community participation and gathering.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of participating in communal activities and family traditions, enriching their social life and family bonds.