Missing snow and the familiar Christmas traditions of her mother’s family, Nina is apprehensive about spending the holiday with her dad’s relatives in Miami’s Little Havana. Her abuela , Mimi, reassures her by letting her know she is needed to help with the preparations for La Noche Buena , or Christmas Eve. Over the course of three days, Nina peels garlic and onions and makes countless trips to her uncle’s house with marinade for the roasting pig. By the time La Noche Buena arrives, Nina feels like she belongs. She’s also more than ready to feast on the delicious meat, fruit, seafood, beans, and rice, and attend Misa del Gallo (Rooster’s Mass). Illustrator Angela Dominguez’s colorful acrylic artwork and author Antonio Sacre’s cheerful narrative are a perfect pairing in story about a child who finds comfort and joy in the embrace and traditions of her Cuban American family. (Ages 5–9)

Nina is visiting her grandmother in Miami for Christmas. Usually she spends it in snowy New England with her mother and her family, but this year is different. She isn't certain what to make of a hot and humid holiday, until she learns the traditions of her father's side of the family from her Cuban grandmother. She helps prepare for the evening and takes part in all their traditions--the intricate cooking for the feast, the dancing, the music, and the gathering of relatives and neighbors. It all comes together for a Noche Buena that Nina will never forget.

Antonio Sacre and Angela Dominguez have created a wonderful story that everyone who celebrates Christmas will enjoy. The book includes a glossary of Spanish words.