Barrio: Jose's Neighborhood

Last updated Tuesday, June 17, 2003

Author: George Ancona
Photographer: George Ancona
Date of Publication: 1998
ISBN: 0152010491
Grade Level: 3rd
Date(s) Used: July 2003

Synopsis: Welcome to Jose's neighborhood. In his barrio, people speak an easy mix of Spanish and English and sometimes even Chinese. The masked revelry of Halloween leads into the festive remembrances of the Day of the Dead. And murals on the walls and buildings sing out the stories of the people who live here.

Craft ideas:

• Make a map placemat of your barrio, labeling main streets, shops, schools, and the homes of family and friends.
• Make a Day of the Dead mask.

*Note: These craft ideas are just suggestions. You can use them, but you don’t have to use them. You can expand upon them, or add your own twist. Remember, though, that the focus of your time should not be on the development and execution of a craft; the focus should be on the read-aloud and the enjoyment of the book!