La Nochebuena South of the Border, La

Feliz Navidad, amigos! Now for children of Spanish- and English-speaking cultures there is a holiday story that tells the traditions of Christmas with a South-of-the-Border perspective. Perfect for classroom readings or family time around the tree, this bilingual tale is an entertaining introduction to life in a Mexican village. And it is the latest twist on C. Clement Moore's The Night Before Christmas by nationally acclaimed children's author and illustrator James Rice. This time Rice has a sombrero-wearing Santa making his rounds through the Mexican desert. On la Nochebuena, or Christmas Eve, accompanied by his faithful burros-Pedro, Pancho, Felipe, Miguel, Rosita, Juanita, Linda, and Isabel-he visits the home of a Mexican family filling their pi ata with fruits and toys. In Pelican's continuing series of holidays from other cultures, La Nochebuena South of the Border serves as an introduction to our southern neighbors. The story and illustrations draw attention to the cultural differences that make the Mexican Christmas holiday unique and enjoyable. The text appears side by side in English and Spanish. Bilingual families can share the story in their native language. Meanwhile, English-speaking children can develop a familiarity with the common and lesser-known vocabulary of the region. James Rice is widely acclaimed as the South's leading author and illustrator of juvenile books. With more than one million copies of his books in print, he ranks among the nation's top authors and illustrators. Rice completed his M.F.A. at Stephen F. Austin State University. He holds degrees in art from the University of Texas and Howard Payne College and has taught art and music at both the high school and college levels.