Abuela's Letter

Abuela’s Letter is a beautiful story that addresses loss and grief within a Latin family where a young girl is challenged by the death of her grandmother and discovers letter-writing as a way to cope and connect with her loved one’s passing.

Alma’s favorite days are when her big family gathers at Abuela’s house. Tíos take siestas while tías tell their stories, and primos play dominoes while Abuela stirs the frijoles. Always at the center is the love of Abuela, Alma’s beloved grandmother and her number one fan! When Abuela dies, all of this is suddenly gone. Alma is filled with sadness and grief, until she finds a letter that Abuela left for her. Could Abuela’s words be what fills her heart again with love and sweet memories?

This thoughtful story captures the concept of “familismo” beautifully―a Latin cultural value that involves dedication, commitment, and loyalty to family. Regularly spending time with one’s immediate and extended family is part of familismo, as well as seeking the family’s advice and support for important decisions and life transitions, such as grief and loss. Included is a note to readers in English and Spanish with coping strategies essential to Latino and Hispanic families about grief and loss of a loved one, as well as additional ways to support children and honor the life and memory of beloved family members.