THE OFRENDA THAT WE BUILT
A celebration of Día de Muertos that invites readers of all backgrounds to join in the building of the family ofrenda, one special element at a time.
Authors: Jolene Gutierrez & Shain Gutierrez
Publisher: Chronicle Books
Awards:
2025 Crystal Kite Winner
2025 Colorado Author’s League: Illustration
2024 Good Housekeeping Kids Book Award Winner
2025 CBC Favorites Winner in the Grade K-2 category
What People Are Saying
“Mother-daughter authors Gutiérrez compose a warmly rendered rhyming poem in English and Spanish, about a family preparing for Día de los Muertos … illustrations by Zapata impart joy through the actions of the Latinx-cued family in this inviting work.”
— Publishers Weekly
“A lively and illuminating look at a holiday tradition.”
— Kirkus Reviews
“This vibrantly illustrated picture book introduces children to ofrendas through fun and rhyming text that follows the pattern of the nursery rhyme, “This is the house that Jack built.” Warm and welcoming words and illustrations perfectly pair together to share family traditions, celebrations, and love surrounding the Day of the Dead.”
— Goodreads
“A rich, rhythmic ode celebrating Día de Muertos”
— School Library Journal