5 Must-Have Day of the Dead Kids’ Books

With Día de los Muertos coming up and limited time on our hands, I’ve listed the top five must-have Day of the Dead kids’ books to honor this renowned Mexican tradition. These stories celebrate culture, keep kids engaged, and are no-brainer additions to your classroom or home library.

Most of the books on my list (though not all) have a Mexican author or illustrator who add their unique and authentic experience to their work. And some of these Day of the Dead kids’ books also include an author’s note or informational page to teach readers more about the holiday.

As you already know, Day of the Dead is a holiday that honors dead relatives by celebrating their life instead of mourning their death as a way of showing respect.

The way you celebrate or teach Día de Muertos is up to you, but I hope these Day of the Dead kids’ books help add a touch of authenticity and enlightenment to your plans. Note that the following list contains affiliate links.

5 Must-Have Day of the Dead Kids’ Books

#1 Día de los Muertos

By Hannah Eliot, illustrated by Jorge Gutierrez

The illustrations in this book are a step above. The book shows readers how to honor their ancestors and cultural traditions, while also being visually exciting for kids (and parents) to read over and over again.

#2 Gustavo the Shy Ghost

By Flavia Z. Drago

What I love about this book, is that it’s a complete story that happens to coincide with Día de los Muertos. Gustavo the Shy Ghost is a sweet story that stands on it’s own at any time of year. Kids will easily relate to Gustavo as he overcomes his shyness and self-doubt.

#3 Funny Bones: Posada and His Day of the Dead Calaveras

By Duncan Tonatiuh

To be perfectly honest, anything by Duncan Tonatiuh, who is a multi-award winning author and illustrator, is bound to be a hit. He uses his distinct illustrative style to convey important cultural stories that kids can relate to. Funny Bones, and it’s homage to José Guadalupe Posada, the artist behind La Catrina and Day of the Dead calaveras, is no different. While this title is geared toward older elementary students, it can (and should) be used to add depth to your Day of the Dead lessons.

#4 The Festival of Bones

By Luis San Vicente

Another strong addition to any Day of the Dead Kids´ Book collection. Watch as these skeletons move, dance, and party on Día de los Muertos. The rhyming text and whimsical illustrations make it accessible for all ages.

#5 Día de los Muertos

By Roseanne Greenfield Thong, illustrated by Carles Ballesteros

The final addition to our Day of the Dead Kids’ Book collection is Roseanne Greenfield Thong’s Día de los Muertos. It’s rhyming text is soothing and it’s spot on illustrations showcase the hustle and bustle of a town in the midst of it’s Day of the Dead preparations.

I’m not one for long lists, so I’m sure that one, several, or even all of these Day of the Dead kids’ books will be just what you need to honor the dead and Mexican tradition.