Day of the Dead

Narrator Christian Barillas brings the celebration of Dia de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) to life, no pun intended. His well-modulated narration sparks interest in the many customs of the three-day holiday. His steady pacing and crisp diction make it easy for young listeners to tune in to the wealth of information. Barillas's own curiosity is evident. Hearing about the many ways to honor the dead--from the early Aztec tradition of inviting dead relatives to visit to the creation of modern-day sugar skulls, droll skeleton figures, and the "dance of the old men"--listeners will come away with increased appreciation for this fall festival. A glossary of Spanish words and their pronunciations completes the production. A.R. (c) AudioFile 2014, Portland, Maine

January 1, 2004
The latest addition to the On My Own Holidays series, Day of the Dead by Linda Lowery, illus. by Barbara Knutson, describes the origins of this Mexican holiday (El dia de los muertos), which honors family members who have died. People attend parades, picnic near loved ones' final resting places, and share traditional treats such as chocolate calaveras (skulls). Brief text and folk-art illustrations make the holiday accessible and also accentuate its joyful aspects.