About This Book:
Through all moments of the day, both large and small, a boy prepares for a Day of the Dead celebration, in this “strikingly affectionate” (Kirkus Reviews) picture book from Pura Belpré Honor–winning author-illustrator John Parra.
A single day in a boy’s life is filled with family, love, and inspiration as he prepares for the Día de Muertos celebration and remembers that all moments are special. Each moment reminds us of our family and those who have gone before us. Today holds a special promise, una promesa especial.
*Review Contributed By Adrien Carter, Staff Reviewer*
Beautiful Book Sharing Dia de Muertos
A young boy is preparing for a Day of the Dead celebration in which each moment is full of family, love, and inspiration. As he prepares for the Día de Muertos celebration, he is reminded of how special each moment is and how those moments remind us of our family and ancestors.
What I Liked: This is a great book to share with children ages 4 and up to introduce them to the tradition of Día de Muertos and to explain to them the significance of the celebration. This book does a great job of expressing how important all the details and moments leading up to the celebration are. Through showing what the rest of the day looks like, the young boy can express how family, love, and inspiration guide him through each moment, making them special.
This book includes illustrations that feel like home as you notice the small details that are connected to Latinx culture. Each page has a short paragraph, and the last sentence is repeated in Spanish; therefore, it doesn’t matter if you speak the language, you’ll still be able to follow the story. The last sentence being repeated in Spanish was an interesting and thoughtful touch, as you learn new words if you aren’t familiar with the language, and can understand the impact of those words as they are repeated.
Final Verdict: This Moment is Special is a beautiful book that teaches the beauty of Día de Muertos to others and highlights various aspects of Latinx culture. This is a great book to introduce children to this holiday, and just what makes this holiday special. Adults will enjoy reading this book with their families as they pass on their traditions for Día de Muertos.
