Summary: There have been so many amazing books out lately, I’ve been reading up a storm! I decided to lean into my newfound love of book roundups and share some of my favorite books with Latinx creators that I’ve been reading lately. Below, check out five different books that explore various identities that fall under the Latinx umbrella. I hope you enjoy them as much as I did!

Me and You and the Universe: Bernardo Marçolla

This book is a unique blend of science, mindfulness, and philosophy. It emphasizes the importance of understanding ourselves and getting to know others, in order to fully experience this world entirely made of teeny tiny building block cells.

The author illustrator is a Brazilian psychologist, and gives an authors note in the back. He writes about making sure we’re considering how we interact with the world around us, and to care for the earth. We’re responsible for healing ourselves and taking steps to make changes outside of us that improve the world for others. Bernardo has focused professionally on the combination of psychology and ecology, which allows him to create this thoughtful and prescient book.

Sent by Free Spirit Publishing

Nuestra América: 30 Inspiring Latinas/Latinos Who Have Shaped the United States: Sabrina Vourvoulias & Gloria Félix

I love anthology books, and this one has huge gorgeous illustrations and bolded quotes! These 30 influential humans have lived throughout history and have a history of activism, entrepreneurship, and creativity.

There are well-known individuals like Dolores Huerta, Lin-Manuel Miranda, and Emma Gonzalez. I enjoyed learning more about astronaut Ellen Ochoa, news anchor María Elena Salinas, and author Sandra Cisneros. It was wonderful to have a book solely dedicated to Latinx figures that impacted what is now the US, and to reaffirm that one does not have to emigrate to embody their Latinx heritage. Very excellent book, and it would be perfect for older readers or as a bedtime story read aloud for younger readers!

Sent by Running Press Kids

Selena: Queen of Tejano Music: Silvia López & Paola Escobar

I’m not sure about you, but I have very formative memories of watching the 1997 movie Selena, with J.Lo playing the titular singer. I love this story, particularly the layout. It tells about Selena’s legacy, from childhood pranks to the tradition of hard work that she left behind. Paola Escobar beautifully illustrates the book, bringing unique text boxes and abstract backgrounds to the pages.

Rather than a linear biographical story, double-page spreads talk about a specific aspect of Selena’s life. I especially love the timeline and the additional information about Tejanos, and the story reifies that Selena didn’t learn to speak Spanish before she sang. Instead, she worked to not only design her costumes, but also memorized multiple languages, pronunciation, and her choreography. Selena truly was a powerhouse that left the world much too soon.

Sent by little bee books

Feliz New Year, Ava Gabriela!: Alexandra Alessandri & Addy Rivera Sonda

This is a sweet story that covers many topics: shyness, traditions, and visiting family in another country. I also love the liberal use of Spanish phrases and the bright colors used in the illustrations!

Ava Gabriela is visiting family in Colombia to celebrate the New year, but it’s a bit overwhelming. There are lots of people she doesn’t know, and lots of traditions she’s never partaken in before. The story is very sweet, and it teaches readers about Latinx traditions while providing a reflection for those who are shy around new people and situations. In the back is an authors note and a glossary!

Sent by Albert Whitman

Nacho’s Nachos: Sandra Nickel & Oliver Dominguez

In my humble opinion, nachos are a perfect food. Infinite possibilities for customization, able to be eaten any time of day (shared or solo).

Ignacio (Nacho) Anaya learned to cook from his foster mother. Working at an elite restaurant, The Victory Club, he soon honed his charisma and had many regular customers. When Mamie Finan entered with friends and asked Nacho to make them a creative new snack. Remembering the quesadillas his foster mother used to make him, he used kitchen ingredients to make the first rendition of nachos that the world had ever seen. In an afterword, there’s more information about Ignacio, a photo of him, and the original recipe!

Sent by Lee and Low

I hope you enjoyed this roundup, and if you feel inclined to use our Bookshop link we would earn a small commission.

These books were all kindly sent by the publishers, which are linked above. However, all of my opinions (and even the decision to review) are only my own!

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