T%C3%ADa's Tamales

Despite the title, this bilingual story isn't so much about making tamales as it is about making connections between generations and making the most out of a tough situation. On a snowy day, Luz's abuelita arrives to teach her to make tamales, but soon dives into telling a story about her father, Diego, and a wintry visit from his t%C3%ADa. Although the chickens aren't laying and the cupboard is bare, thanks to some ingenuity, T%C3%ADa has a feast cooked up in no time. Chilton's figures resemble cutout paper dolls, with drop shadows adding to a three-dimensional effect. Luz gets the best of what strong family connections offer: stories, skills, and even the occasional heirloom. Ages 7%E2%80%93up. (May)%C6%92