October's Book of the Month--The Ofrenda That We Built

October’s Book of the Month is THE OFRENDA THAT WE BUILT, written by Jolene Gutiérrez and Shaian Gutiérrez, and illustrated by Gabby Zapata.

This sweet picture book is a rhyming look at the way one family builds an ofrenda for Día de Muertos. Included, among other things, are “cloth, embroidered by Amá,” “candles, glowing and bright,” tamales “that Papi prepares for the spirits to eat,” and “photos, reminders so dear.” Step by step, THE OFRENDA THAT WE BUILT weaves together all the many items this family gathers with care and tenderness to honor their “loving abuelo, who’s no longer here.”

Clever, cumulative text based on The House that Jack Built is enriched by vibrant, colorful, cartoony art which brings the complex scenes to life. There’s plenty of backmatter, too. It’s a joyful, heartfelt tribute to family and tradition that’s beautifully done!

--Lynn