The origins and traditions of these two special holidays are presented in this illustrated reference book with full-color photos for middle readers.

Why is Cinco de Mayo—a holiday commemorating a Mexican victory over the French at Puebla in 1862—so widely celebrated in California and across the United States, when it is scarcely observed in Mexico? As David E. Hayes-Bautista explains, the holiday is not Mexican at all, but rather an American one, created by Latinos in California during the mid-nineteenth century. Hayes-Bautista shows how the meaning of Cinco de Mayo has shifted over time—it embodied immigrant nostalgia in the 1930s, U.S. patriotism during World War II, Chicano Power in the 1960s and 1970s, and commercial intentions in the 1980s and 1990s. Today, it continues to reflect the aspirations of a community that is engaged, empowered, and expanding.

A young Mexican American from California learns about her heritage and celebrates the holiday with her friends, family, and community.

Six bilingual children's stories from Mexico.

¡Feliz Cinco de Mayo! This annual fiesta began after a historical Mexican military victory, and now it is celebrated in many parts of the United States. Learn about food, music, and more through full-color photographs, diagrams, and other nonfiction text features. Age-appropriate critical thinking questions help readers delve more deeply into the content.

Describes the history, customs, and practices of this holiday commemorating the victory of the Mexican army over the French on May 5, 1862.