Pedro, the Angel of Olvera Street facts for kids
First edition
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| Author | Leo Politi |
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| Publisher | Scribner's |
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Publication date
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1936 |
| Pages | unpaged |
| Awards | Caldecott Honor |
Pedro, the Angel of Olvera Street is a charming picture book written and illustrated by Leo Politi. It was first published in 1946. The story follows a young boy named Pedro as he takes part in a special Mexican Christmas tradition called a posada. The book is well-known for its beautiful illustrations, which earned it a 1947 Caldecott Honor.
About the Book
This heartwarming story takes readers to Olvera Street in Los Angeles, California. Olvera Street is a historic marketplace that celebrates Mexican culture. The book focuses on Pedro, a boy who loves his community and its traditions. He gets to play the role of an angel in the annual posada procession.
The book captures the excitement and spirit of the Christmas season. It shows how communities come together to celebrate. Leo Politi's illustrations bring the vibrant colors and joyful atmosphere of Olvera Street to life. The story teaches about friendship, tradition, and the importance of community celebrations.
What is a Posada?
A posada is a traditional Mexican Christmas celebration. The word "posada" means "inn" or "lodging" in Spanish. These celebrations remember the journey of Mary and Joseph as they looked for a place to stay in Bethlehem before Jesus was born.
During a posada, people often dress up and go from house to house. They sing songs and ask for lodging, just like Mary and Joseph did. Eventually, they are welcomed into a home where there is a party with food, music, and sometimes a piñata. It's a way for families and communities to share joy and tradition during the holiday season.
Who was Leo Politi?
Leo Politi (1908–1996) was an American author and illustrator of children's books. He was born in Fresno, California, but spent part of his childhood in Italy. When he returned to California, he became fascinated by the diverse cultures of Los Angeles.
Politi was especially known for his books that celebrated the lives and traditions of different ethnic communities in California. He often featured Mexican-American and Italian-American characters and settings in his stories. His work helped introduce young readers to various cultures and promoted understanding and appreciation for diversity. Many of his books, like Pedro, the Angel of Olvera Street, are still loved today for their gentle stories and distinctive artwork.
The Caldecott Honor
The Caldecott Medal is one of the most prestigious awards for children's picture books in the United States. It is given each year by the Association for Library Service to Children (ALSC), a division of the American Library Association (ALA). The award recognizes the artist of the most distinguished American picture book for children.
Books that are considered strong contenders but do not win the main medal are often named "Caldecott Honor" books. Pedro, the Angel of Olvera Street received a Caldecott Honor in 1947. This means that the judges recognized the outstanding quality of Leo Politi's illustrations in the book. Receiving this honor helps a book gain wider recognition and shows its lasting value in children's literature.
