A color photodocumentary explanation of el Día de Los Muertos features a Mexican family's observances of The Day of the Dead beginning October 31 or All Hallow's Eve. Bakers make special bread, candy makers create sugar skulls, marigolds are harvested, women prepare special foods and children cut out cardboard skeletons in anticipation of the fiesta. Family altars are readied in advance of bell-ringing that signals the spirits' return and heralds the activities and visits that are part of the three-day family and community event. Ancona's camera and text feature Pablo, his three sisters and parents as they honor the memory of their ancestors, especially their grandmother who died two years ago. Spanish words used in context or defined as necessary amplify Ancona's interpretation in a book measuring 8 1/4" by 10 1/8" in size and larger in importance. (Ages 5-9)

From October 31 to November 2, people in Mexico celebrate the festival of el Dia de Los Muertos, the Day of the Dead. This photodocumentary follows Pablo and his family as they prepare to honor the memory of Pablo's grandmother. Ancona's "photographs catch the affirmation of life that fills the Mexican festival arising from both Aztec and Christian customs honoring the dead....Joyful."--Chicago Tribune. "This intriguing book makes an excellent offering during the Halloween season."--School Library Journal. Also available in a Spanish Language edition, Pablo Recuerda.