Pepe and the Piñata: A Celebration of Hispanic Heritage
by Tracey Kyle; illus. by Mirelle Ortega
Preschool, Primary    Little Bee    32 pp.
10/25    9781499817997    $18.99

Pepe and his mami, papi, and abuelo are preparing their family home for Christmas as well as participating in a community-wide Latine Christmas cultural festival: “Pepe and his friends will help to decorate the square, / inspired by traditions of the heritage they share.” Their family’s contribution is a piñata, representing “the tradition mexicana,” while others bring food (“Yuca fries from Cuba. Spanish ham and rice. / Pollo from El Salvador with just a little spice”), perform music, share games, and more. Bouncy rhymes and colorful cartoony illustrations reflect the vibrancy and fun. An appended glossary, author’s note, and sources provide more details.

From the November/December 2025 issue of The Horn Book Magazine.