Armando and the Blue Tarp School

Armando and his father are trash-pickers in Tijuana, Mexico, but when Senor David brings his “school”–a blue tarp set down near the garbage dump–to their neighborhood, Armando’s father decides that he must attend classes and learn. Based on a true story.

Under The Lemon Moon

The theft of all the lemons from her lemon tree leads Rosalinda to an encounter with la Anciana, the Old One, who walks the Mexican countryside helping things grow, and to an understanding of generosity and forgiveness.

The Race Of Toad And Deer

In this second book by the Latina pair, Pat Mora has created a poetic adaptation of the Maya version of the much-loved fable of the tortoise and the hare. The arrogant deer who boasts of his strength and speed is finally challenged to a race by the wily toad. While all the wondrous animals of the jungle – jaguar, tapir, armadillo and toucan – gathered around to watch, the toad makes a plan. He may not be as large as Venado, but he is very clever and has many friends to help him.

Desert Trek: An Eye-Opening Journey Through The World’s Driest Places

Take an exotic journey from the American Mojave to the vast Sahara to the high-mountain Gobi and experience the hidden treasures that deserts hold. The people that live there, the plants and animals that thrive, and the riches that lie beneath the ground all contribute to the unique ecosystem that set deserts apart from the rest of the world-seemingly mysterious environments that play a role in the life-cycle of every continent.

Canto Familiar

Twenty-five poems about the pleasures and woes that Mexican American children experience growing up. Simple poems, many involving Mexican Americans, celebrate experiences at school, home, and in the street. A companion to Neighborhood Odes, (1992). Touching, vibrant, and humorous, this lively collection of poems accompanied by beautiful illustrations celebrates childhood and the Mexican American experience. Invoking ordinary domestic and community incidents, it’ a fine introduction not only to poetry but to Chicano culture. Nelson debuts with scenes–homey, comfortable, bright–that make the book even more accessible.