TAMALES FOR CHRISTMAS

TAMALES FOR CHRISTMAS by Stephen Briseno. Illustrated by Sonia Sanchez

I have several great pictures books to share with you in the upcoming days, but Tamales for Christmas is truly something special. If you love Christmas picture books you'll want to get your hands on this one!

TAMALES FOR CHRISTMAS is a story based on the author, Stephen Briseno's, grandmother. This amazing woman would cook tamales to sell, beginning in the fall months all the way up to Christmas, to make money for purchasing Christmas gifts for her family and neighbors. She cooked an unbelievable number of these traditional Mexican delicacies. One year she cooked 1000 dozen. Yes, you read that correctly - 1000 dozen. Prepare to feel the love, dedication, and selflessness this incredible woman demonstrated to those around her. Be sure to check out the Author's Notes at the end of the story. They are well worth reading!

Sonia Sanchez's illustrations are perfect for this book. There is a warm hominess to the pictures that fits the text and showcases the dedication to family and the work at hand.

ALONGSIDE ACTIVITIES- What is a tamale? Do a little research about these loved delicacies.Where did they originate? When are they traditionally eaten? If you're feeling ambitious, there is a recipe in the Author's Notes!