Mimi's Parranda (La parranda de Mimi)

Like most young children, Mimí loves Christmas time, so much so that she doesn't even mind the bitter cold. But while her friends plan to ask for skates, sleds, coats and boots for Christmas, Mimí wants a straw hat, new sandals, a polka-dot bathing suit, and maybe even a beach ball. She'll need toys and clothing for warm weather because she goes to Puerto Rico every Christmas, and she can't wait to go again this year! Mimí especially looks forward to her annual parranda, the Puerto Rican version of Christmas caroling. She loves it when everyone arrives late at night and wakes her up by playing their instruments—güiros, palitos, maracas, guitars, tambourines. And the food ... she dreams about a table brimming with all her favorites: roasted pork, pasteles, and arroz con leche. But when she learns that her family won't be able to go to Puerto Rico this year, Mimí is crushed. She is so sad that she loses interest in her class's holiday party, and on the day of the party, she decides to stay home in bed. Just as Mimí is falling asleep, though, she hears the unmistakable sounds of musical instruments. Could it be that she'll get her parranda after all? Rich with Puerto Rican cultural traditions and complemented by vibrant illustrations, Mimí's Parranda La parranda de Mimí will have children ages 3-7 eagerly anticipating their own holiday traditions.