Illustrated Stories of Historic Figures for Hispanic Heritage Month

Illustration by Laura Moraiti

National Hispanic Heritage month will continue until October 15 which offers plenty of time to discover new Hispanic and Latin American stories as well as celebrate the famous figures we already know. We recently highlighted six heartwarming, everyday tales told through picture books that can inspire and connect kids to Latin American and Hispanic traditions and culture. Now, let’s take a look at some of the historic figures who have made history and touched hearts all around the world.

These five illustrated works showcase five individuals who helped elevate their industries and their contributions continue to impact and inspire in their communities and beyond. Each book offers an enlightening reading experience for kids and their parents alike for National Hispanic Heritage Month.

Pele, King Of Soccer/Pele, El rey del futbol 

No matter if your kids are fútbol (soccer) fans, the story of Edson Arantes do Nascimento, known as Pelé, will inspire them to chase after their goals. The 3 time World Cup Champion, leading goal scorer of all time, and FIFA Football Player of the Century didn’t also dominate the game on the field but after his career as a player ended he went on to positively influence all sports as the Minister of Sports in Brazil. In Pele, King Of Soccer/Pele, El rey del futbol author Monica Brown and illustrator Rudy Gutierrez bring his story to life with fun storytelling and vibrant imagery.

This bilingual children's book can help introduce Spanish words and phrases while readers marvel at the colorful illustrations. Pelé came from modest means in Brazil and worked his way to becoming one of the most famous soccer players in the world. Showing kids that despite any obstacles or adversities they too can make their dreams come.

My Name is Celia: The Life of Celia Cruz / Me llamo Celia: la vida de Celia Cruz 

Cuban American singer Celia Cruz was one of the most popular Latin artists of the 20th century and was affectionately named “The Queen of Salsa”. Winning her first Grammy in 1990, when her songs are played, like “La Vida Es Un Carnaval” (Life is a Carnival) and “Guantanamera” (from Guantánamo), you can’t help but sing along. The bright and enchanting illustrations bring the story to life. The bilingual book My Name is Celia: The Life of Celia Cruz / Me llamo Celia: la vida de Celia Cruz follows the singer as she moves from Cuba to the US and creates a completely new type of music that takes the world by storm.

My Name is Celia is also written by Brown who has authored several books about impactful Hispanic and Latino figures including My Name Is Gabriela: The Life of Gabriela Mistral about the Chilean poet and author who became the first Latin American writer to win the Nobel Prize in Literature, My Name Is Gabito: The Life of Gabriel García Márquez the Columbian novelist and journalist, and Pablo Neruda: Poet of the People which won the Américas Award for Children's Literature and an Orbis Pictus Honor for Outstanding Nonfiction. Illustrator Rafael López won the 2010 Pura Belpré Illustrator Award from the American Library Association for Book Fiesta! : Celebrate Children's Day/Book Day; Celebremos El Dia de Los Ninos/El Dia de Los Libros, written by Pat Mora.

I am Frida Kahlo

Though younger generations may still marvel at the artwork Frida Kahlo, her journey of becoming an unforgettable icon may be less known. The children’s book I am Frida Kahlo tells an enchanting story of the artist’s childhood, struggles, and artistic inspiration. Famous for her stoic self portraits, by including herself, her Mexican culture, and their collective history into her paintings they became statement pieces while Frida became a beloved symbol beyond the art world.

A persistent pioneer from a very young age, after not only being ridiculed for the symptoms of having polio and surviving a bus crash Frida took up painting which allowed her to share the unique way she saw the world. Despite feeling like she didn’t always fit in, she stayed true to herself and resulted in her work being praised for its uniqueness. A story that can make all readers celebrate what makes them special. This New York Times bestseller is a part of a picture book biography series written by Brad Meltzer and illustrated by Christopher Eliopoulos.

Sing With Me: The Story of Selena Quintanilla

Selena Quintanilla grabbed the hearts of millions after arriving on the Tejano music scene. Sing With Me: The Story of Selena Quintanilla details her story from a young age, performing as Selena y Los Dinos to her rise as an international superstar, singing in not only Spanish but English as well. Alongside the captivating text written by Diana López, this picture book is complete with colorful pages lined with Selena’s signature outfit choices illustrated by Teresa Martínez.

Read about Selena’s rise from playing small quinceañeras in her hometown to standing center stage in front of tens of thousands at the Houston Astrodome, continuing to perform with her brother and sister along the way. Despite singing in Spanish but only learning to speak it later in life and facing obstacles trying to break into male dominated Tejano music Selena’s story of persistence and pride in her Mexican-American heritage will serve as inspiration for young readers to take on their own challenges.

A completely Spanish version, Canta Conmigo: La Historia de Selena Quintanilla, is also available.

Planting Stories: The Life of Librarian and Storyteller Pura Belpré 

The story of Pura Belpré may not be internationally recognized but it’s an incredibly impactful one. After arriving in the US in 1921 from her home in Puerto Rico, Pura began working as a bilingual assistant at the New York Public Library. She turned the exciting folktales from her culture into books that were loved by children and young adults. Planting Stories: The Life of Librarian and Storyteller Pura Belpré is the heartwarming biography of the storyteller, puppeteer, and New York City’s first Puerto Rican librarian who became a champion of bilingual literature.

This picture book was a recipient of the Pura Belpré Honor, an honor given by the ALA named in honor of the librarian for outstanding illustrated children’s books that celebrates the Latino experience. Pura inspired young readers at the New York Public Library and her story continues to inspire children across the country. Anika Aldamuy Denise's lyrical text combined with Paola Escobar's elegant illustrations have brought this literary hero’s journey to life. A Spanish-language edition, Sembrando historias: Pura Belpré bibliotecaria y narradora de cuentos, is also available along with discussion guides.

If you’re enjoying learning more about children’s books highlighting Latin American cultures, the Library of Congress is having a virtual event titled Celebration of Children’s and YA Latin American and Latinx Literature. This online celebration will amplify the voices of children’s book authors and illustrators from Latin American communities. Children and their families are invited to attend on Monday, October 11 from 6:00 to 7:00 pm EDT. For more information visit the event website.