Product Description

This unique holiday story introduces a Christmas custom practiced in parts of Mexico and near the Mexican border of the United States: Las Posadas, a traditional reenactment of the Nativity. On Christmas Eve, Carlos is dismayed to see the procession of neighbors and friends coming up the front walk. His parents and grandfather aren't home yet-so it's up to Carlos to take over Grandfather's role as the Innkeeper. But he's so frightened, he can hardly breathe, let alone sing! Carlos's triumph over his shyness, and the joyful celebration that follows, make this a satisfying story for any season.

Product Details

• Amazon Sales Rank: #1901176 in Books
• Published on: 2001-08-20
• Original language: English
• Dimensions: .13" h x 8.12" w x 10.00" l, .28 pounds
• Binding: Paperback
• 32 pages

From Booklist
Ages 4^-8. This picture book focuses on the Christmas Eve celebration of Las Pasadas, when neighbors act out the story of the peregrinos (wanderers) in search of shelter for Mary and Joseph. Carlos Castillo is a small boy who loves the tradition, including the mouthwatering foods, the Nativity creche, the pinata, and the lighting of the farolito lantern. When the Las Pasadas procession comes to Carlos' house, his grandfather isn't home yet, so Carlos has to act the part of the mean innkeeper. The familiar request is elemental ("We have come a long journey / And are asking a place to rest" ). Carlos shivers as he gives the harsh reply ("I don't care who you are. / Just let me sleep" ), until, finally, he flings the door wide open and shouts for everyone to come in. The bright acrylic pictures are reverential and contemporary, expressing both Carlos' sense of wonder and the immediacy of a warm family holiday. A detailed final note explains the customs and their variations among different communities. Hazel Rochman

Review
"Filled with details of a rich tradition and illustrated with colourful acrylics that employ heavy brush strokes, bright colours, and lots of warm shadings to set the scene, this is a story that effectively introduces one culture's oldest holiday traditions." (School Library Journal )

Ingram
In a unique, illustrated holiday story, little Carlos must overcome his shyness when he is forced to play his grandfather's part in the traditional Mexican Christmas pageant known as Las Posadas, a reenactment of the Nativity.