A bunch of books with a multicultural perspective – (Children’s books from small presses)

“Hispanics comprise more than a third of Texas population, so it makes sense that most of our area bookstores have Spanish-language sections in their childrens areas. Yet its not enough to simply find translations of “Goodnight Moon”; its key to find books that reflect a specific cultural perspective. “Abuelita: Full of Life/Llena de Vida” Luna Rising, $14.95 is one of three new bilingual books that do just that as they celebrate different facets of Hispanic society. Amy Costales story of Jose and the grandmother who comes to live with him is also a paean to enjoying time spent with elders, though they move more slowly and favor unplugged pastimes. “In the evening Abuelita rocks on the porch in her robe, but she doesnt ever rest. She rips tortillas for the birds. She strings chile peppers. She tells stories to Jose and sings to his little sister,” Costales tells us, while Martha Aviles muted yet vibrant paintings amplify such domestic delights.

Arte PÚblico might not be as well known as Harper Collins or Knopf, but the University of Houston-based press is one of the largest publishers of American Hispanic authors. Its childrens imprint, Piñata, offers the other two titles.”

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