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Picture Book · Ages 4–8 · 1959 · Est. 22 min read-aloud
Nine Days to Christmas
By Marie Hall Ets, Aurora Labastida
A young girl faces a dilemma over her first piñata during a Christmas celebration.
48 pages· 2,805 words· Est. 22 min read-aloud
$5.99Save 4%
In stock. Also at Amazon.
Bookroo's summary
Ceci is thrilled to lead the Las Posadas procession, a cherished Christmas tradition in her Mexican town. As she prepares for the festivities, she selects her first piñata, only to be torn by its impending fate. Will her excitement turn to regret, or will she find joy in the celebration? This enchanting tale captures the magic and cultural richness of a child's Christmas experience, inviting readers to explore the heartwarming traditions of Las Posadas.
From the publisher
Generations of readers have treasured this 1960 Caldecott Medal winner and its tale of a little Mexican girl’s excitement at the approach of Christmas. Ceci eagerly awaits Las Posadas, the traditional nine-day series of yuletide celebrations. This year she’ll lead the candlelight procession that reenacts Mary and Joseph’s trek to Bethlehem. Meanwhile, Mother takes her to the old marketplace to choose her very first piñata. Ceci is dazzled by the colorful array of options, and after making her choice has second thoughts about the fate of her piñata once the posada takes place.
Graced by evocative illustrations, this international holiday classic is now available in a lovely hardcover edition. “The youngest child will be completely transported by this story,” noted The Atlantic, and readers of all ages will be charmed by the child’s-eye view of Mexican culture.
Awards
At a glance
- Format
- Pages
- 48
- Words
- 2,805
- Reading age
- 4–8
- Audience
- Picture
- Lexile
- 510L
Themes & topics
What readers & critics say
Reviews
4.8
out of 7
The author
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