10 Spanish Children’s Books to Celebrate Read Your World Day
I’m excited to partner with Read Your World and our generous book donors to share five Spanish picture books and three middle-grade book recommendations with you! Not only am I a co-host, I’m also a book reviewer and I love, love these books!
Picture Books
El día de campo de Evie, also available in English, is a sweet story about winning , just not in the conventional sense. Evie is a fiercely competitive girl who struggles with frustration when she falls short of first place. Determined to come out on top, she faces an unexpected moment where doing the right thing costs her the win or so it seems. Through Evie’s journey, young readers discover that there are many more ways to be a winner than a medal can measure. The book’s backmatter rounds out the experience with sportsmanship tips and a fun activity, making it a wonderful choice for children whether or not they have a competitive bone in their body. A must-have book for any classroom or home library.
Un tropezón de tres años (Spanish)*
I love how Un tropezón de tres años | Three-Year Tumble by Dayeon Auh flips a traditional Korean folktale “Samnyeongogae” into a lesson on perspective and positivity. The granddaughter’s clever twist on the mountain’s legend is a perfect reminder that mindset matters. It’s a beautifully illustrated, heartwarming story that encourages readers to see life’s challenges differently. This is something I always try to emphasize in my work with children and bilingual education. This is a must-read for anyone who appreciates culture, wisdom, and a little humor wrapped into one timeless tale. This book is also available in English.
Get your Spanish copy here (aff. link).
Get your English copy here (aff. link)
Deena extraña a su mamá (Spanish)*
Deena extraña a su mamá by Jonae, Jesse, Layonnie, and Kahliya of Reach Incorporated, in collaboration with Shout Mouse Press. Originally written in English, Deena extraña a su mamá is a moving yet relatable story of a young girl struggling to process complex emotions after her mother’s incarceration.
Written by four teens, this touching picture book explores the emotional toll of parental imprisonment. When Deena’s mother goes to prison, she begins acting out at school. Despite efforts from her best friend, grandmother, and father, nothing seems to help—until a day at the amusement park allows her to begin confronting her feelings. Illustrated with poignant collages, this story helps young readers navigate difficult conversations about grief, justice, and family resilience.
Shout Mouse Press is a non-profit organization committed to uplifting and amplifying the voices of marginalized youth (ages 12+) through writing workshops, publishing, and public speaking opportunities.
¡Pórtate como un hombre! (Spanish)*
¡Pórtate como un hombre! by London, Riley, and Shirelle of Reach Incorporated, in collaboration with Shout Mouse Press, challenges the harmful “man up” mentality and toxic masculinity. Originally written in English, this powerful story follows Aaron, a young Black boy, as he navigates situations that make him sad and lead him to cry. The book encourages readers to embrace emotions, break free from gender stereotypes, and see vulnerability as a strength. It’s an important resource for fostering empathy, emotional intelligence, and healthier conversations about masculinity. As a mom raising a son, I’ve never allowed anyone to tell him not to cry, and this book reinforces why that’s so important.
Shout Mouse Press is a non-profit organization committed to uplifting and amplifying the voices of marginalized youth (ages 12+) through writing workshops, publishing, and public speaking opportunities.
Belinda Lifts Her Voice | Belinda eleva su voz (Bilingual)*
Belinda Lifts Her Voice | Belinda eleva su voz was written by three talented young Latina authors — Luisa Orellana-Castillo, Brizel Martinez Cruz, and Camila Melany De La Luz Villegas — with illustrations by Romeo Montero. The book is part of Shout Mouse Press’s Beyond Borders series.
Belinda Lifts Her Voice | Belinda eleva su voz is a heartfelt story about a little girl named Belinda who deeply misses her tía, a beloved family member honored on a mural in her community. When the mural is suddenly at risk of being removed, Belinda and her family set out to organize a protest. With little support from their neighbors, they decide to change their approach by hosting a lively celebration instead. Will Belinda succeed in saving the mural? You’ll have to read to find out! This inspiring story highlights the power of community, perseverance, and finding your voice, all brought to life through vibrant illustrations that beautifully capture Latino culture.
Shout Mouse Press is a non-profit organization committed to uplifting and amplifying the voices of marginalized youth (ages 12+) through writing workshops, publishing, and public speaking opportunities.
Pintando Alegría: (Spanish)*
Pintando Alegría: Explore Fernando Llort’s Ave Mágica Art for Kids
I am, Yo Soy (Bilingual)*
I Am, Yo Soy by Gabriela Orozco Belt, with stunning illustrations by Mirelle Ortega, is a powerful and affirming bilingual picture book that celebrates the beauty of bicultural identity. In a world that often questions where Hispanic/Latino children belong, this book serves as a joyful reminder that they are enough just as they are. Through warm and expressive illustrations showcasing sports, holidays, food, and music, I Am, Yo Soy is a heartfelt love letter to Hispanic/Latino American children empowering them to embrace their roots, their cultures, and their voices with pride. Reminiding them to remember who they are, I Am, Yo Soy.
Teachers and parents must-have this book as part of their home or school library. Highly recommend!
Por un ratito (Available in Spanish and English)*
Por un ratito by Gabriela Orozco Belt and illutrated by Richy Sánchez Ayala beautifully captures the emotions of change, resilience, and the strength of family bonds. As someone who experienced the challenges of moving and adjusting to a multigenerational home, this story resonated deeply. Gabriela skillfully conveys Maribel’s journey, her big feelings, her struggles, and ultimately, the love that surrounds her. This picture book reminds us that even in the midst of difficult transitions, the warmth of family, a pillar of Latin culture, makes all the difference. My Abuela lived with her extended family and took my Mami and siblings in por un ratito. While change is never easy, with love, we were able to navigate living in a new home just as Maribel did.
This picture book is also available in English and is the perfect addition to your home or classroom library.
*I was gifted this book for the purposes of a review for Read Your World Day 2025. All thoughts and opinions are entirely my own.
Middle Grade Books
Vampirita y la turba enfurecida by Mariana Llanos (Spanish)
Vampirita y la turba enfurecida by Mariana Llanos @marianawritestheworld and illustrated by Laura Brenlla is Vampirita meets Wednesday Addams but much cooler and funnier.
This middle-grade book is one that every child or teen that has moved from one country to another will definitely relate to. From adjusting to a new country in the United States and making friends, Vampirita is determined to use her spooky magic to return to Perú but will it work?
I absolutely love the ingenious way that Mariana uses funny and whimsical words to name food such as, “mermelada de hormiga” (ant marmalade), “empanadas de grillo en sala de gusanos” (cricket and worm sauce empanadas) and more had me laughing out loud. The characters are all super funny and hilarious, too!
This book available in Spanish and English will make an excellent addition to home and/or classroom libraries. This Spanish version is also great for advanced readers and/or native Spanish speakers.
Get your Spanish copy here (aff. link).
Get your English copy here (aff. link).
*I was gifted a pdf version of this book for the purposes of a review. All thoughts and opinions are entirely my own.
is a fun and clever mystery with heart, history, and a touch of superstition. Fina Mendoza is such a relatable character—curious, brave, and determined to protect her family while navigating life after loss. The Capitol Hill setting makes civics come alive for kids in a way that feels natural and exciting. Plus, I love how the story weaves in Latino family dynamics and traditions. This book is a great way to introduce young readers to government and culture through an engaging, kid-friendly mystery.
Get your Spanish copy here (aff. link).
Get your English copy here (aff. link).
Estado de la Unión Los Misterios de Fina Mendoza (Spanish)
Estado de la Unión (Los Misterios de Fina Mendoza) by Kitty Felde is a clever blend of mystery, civics, and cultural storytelling that hooked me right away! Fina, a bold Latina 10-year-old, takes readers on an adventure through the halls of the U.S. Capitol with her trusty dog, Senator Something, while weaving in topics like immigration reform and grief.
Fina’s determination to uncover the mystery of the Chickcharney bird also reflects her deeper desire for connection, hope, and maybe even a message from her late mother. She’s a character that feels real and relatable, especially for young readers navigating their own emotions and identities. It’s the perfect mix of mystery, heart, and important lessons. A book I’d recommend for classrooms and families alike!
Get your Spanish copy here (aff. link)
Get your English copy here (aff. link)
Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase I’ll receive a small monetary compensation. This is at no cost to you. *I was gifted these books for the purposes of a review for Read Your World Day 2025. All thoughts and opinions are entirely my own. Thanks!
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Read Your World 2025 (1/30/25) is in its 13th year! Valarie Budayr and Mia Wenjen founded this non-profit children’s literacy initiative; they are two diverse book-loving moms who saw a need to shine the spotlight on all of the multicultural diverse books and authors on the market while also working to get those books into the hands of young readers and educators.
Read Your World’s mission is to raise awareness of the need to include kids’ books celebrating diversity in homes and school bookshelves. Read about our Mission and history HERE.
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📌 FREE RESOURCES from Read Your World Day
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Follow the hashtag #ReadYourWorld to join the conversation, and connect with like-minded parts, authors, publishers, educators, organizations, and librarians. We look forward to seeing you all on January 30, 2025, at our virtual party!