The Library has an AMAZING collection of books featuring stories and information written by and about people from varied backgrounds, races, ethnicities, life experiences, and viewpoints. We love to share selections that demonstrate the range of our collection all year and we encourage you to explore these books with us!
This month, we are highlighting activities and books in our collection by and about people in the Hispanic community. Check these out below and join us at one of our programs, which feature information and stories in celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month.
READ: Stef Soto, Taco Queen by Jennifer Torres
Seventh grader Estefania "Stef" Soto is itching to shake off the onion-and-cilantro embrace of Tia Perla, her family's taco truck. She wants nothing more than for her dad to get a normal job and for Tia Perla to be put out to pasture. It's no fun being known as the "Taco Queen" at school. But just when it looks like Stef is going to get exactly what she wants, and her family's livelihood is threatened, she will have to become the truck's unlikely champion. In this fun and multicultural middle grade novel, Stef will discover what matters the most, and ultimately embrace an identity that even includes old Tia Perla.
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Questions to think about while you read:
- Describe a time when you really, really wanted to do something on your own, but your parents weren't quite ready for you to do that yet. How did you feel?
- What do you think about Stef's feelings toward Tia Perla? If you were in Stef's place, would you feel the same way? Why or why not?
- Can you relate to Stef's love of Viviana Vega? Which celebrity singer is your favorite?
PLAY: Piñata!
Most people are probably familiar with piñatas...they are popular at parties and holiday celebrations. The Mayan and Aztec people used a very early form of a piñata, which was a clay pot with treasures inside. Blindfolded players tried to hit the pot with a stick, and when the pot was broken, the treasures were an offering to a god. Now, piñatas are made from paper maché and are filled with candies and/or small toys for the players to enjoy.
You can purchase an already-made piñata at party stores or in the party department at a superstore. However, they are VERY easy to make at home; for a basic piñata, all you need is a cardboard box, tape, and some crepe paper. Check out this video to learn how to make your own: DIY With Tina
Host a get-together with friends to celebrate Hispanic Heritage month and play with a piñata! The basic rules are:
- Hang the piñata in an area where players can hit it (outside is ideal).
- Players are blindfolded and given a stick (broom stick is great!).
- Players take turns, one at a time, trying to hit the piñata.
- Play continues until someone breaks open the piñata and everyone rushes to get to the treats!
EXPLORE: Make Paletas
Paletas are a Mexican version of popsicles—the word "paleta" refers to the wooden stick. But instead of being made from sugary flavored water, paletas are a delicious frozen treat made of real fruit. They are super easy to make—you are only limited by your imagination and taste buds. Try the basic recipe below and share it with your family and friends; I'm sure they will be impressed (and want more!). If you want to take your paleta making skills to the next level, check out this book: Paletas: Authentic Recipes for Mexican Ice Pops, Shaved Ice, and Aquas Frescas by Fany Gerson.
Ingredients:
- 6 cups of chopped fresh fruit of your choice (start with strawberry, pineapple, or mango, but then experiment!)
- ¼ c. sugar or honey
- ¼ c. lime, lemon, or orange juice (whichever would go best with your fruit)
- Water, as needed
Instructions:
- Take half of the chopped fruit (3 cups) and chop it finely.
- Put the remaining chopped fruit (3 cups) into a blender, along with the sweetener and citrus juice.
- Blend everything together, using a little water as needed.
- Stir the chopped fruit into the blended mixture.
- Pour into popsicle molds* and freeze for at least 4 hours.
- When ready, run mold under warm water to loosen the paletas and remove from mold.
*If you don't have a popsicle mold, use small paper cups and food-safe wooden sticks.
From LiveEatLearn.com
JOIN: Attend a program!
View all school age programs and events offered this month.
Registration is required for all programs; if space allows, walk-ins will be admitted. Use the link in the program information to register.
