Relit: 16 Latinx Remixes of Classic Stories
What’s inside...
These sixteen stories by award-winning and bestselling YA authors center a Latinx point of view in an empowering anthology that reimagines classics through fantasy, science fiction, and with a dash of magic. The anthology features remixed classics where Latinx characters take center stage, such as Pride and Prejudice in space, Frankenstein in the ocean depths, and The Great Gatsby on a Costa Rican island. Characters navigate love, battle foes, and grow through grief, with each story empowering readers to see themselves as heroes. The anthology includes contributions from authors like Olivia Abtahi, David Bowles, Zoraida Córdova, and many others.
Age
13-17
Length
352 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What similarities and differences did you notice between the classic stories and their Latinx remixes?
How do the characters' backgrounds influence their choices and challenges in the stories?
Why do you think the author chose to retell these particular stories from a Latinx perspective?
What lessons can we learn from the struggles and triumphs of the characters?
Which story was your favorite, and what did it make you feel or think about?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their thoughts by asking them how they would feel or react in similar situations as the characters.
Discuss with your child the cultural aspects presented in the stories and how they compare to your own family traditions and values.
Use the remixes as an opportunity to explore the original classic stories, discussing any new insights or perspectives gained from the Latinx renditions.
After reading each story, ask your child to draw a scene or character that stood out to them, using the artwork as a springboard for discussion about the story’s themes.
Highlight the creativity in storytelling by asking your child how they might retell one of their favorite stories from their own perspective.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Cultural appreciation and diversity
Explanation: Each story in 'Relit: 16 Latinx Remixes of Classic Stories' is a retelling that interweaves rich Latinx culture and perspectives with classic narratives, providing a new lens on familiar tales.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to appreciate and respect diverse cultures and backgrounds, fostering an inclusive attitude towards people from different ethnicities and cultures in their everyday interactions.
Example Lesson: Creativity and innovation
Explanation: The book exemplifies how traditional stories can be transformed creatively, showing that old narratives can find new life with fresh perspectives and ideas.
Real-World Application: Children can be inspired to use their imagination to think creatively in problem-solving, storytelling, or expressing themselves in unique ways.
Example Lesson: Empathy and understanding
Explanation: By placing classic stories in new contexts that highlight Latinx characters and issues, the book encourages readers to see life from another's viewpoint, fostering empathy.
Real-World Application: Children learn to understand and empathize with the feelings and experiences of others, aiding their social interactions and development of emotional intelligence.
Example Lesson: Importance of heritage and roots
Explanation: This collection proudly presents Latinx perspectives and voices, underscoring the importance of one’s heritage and the strength it provides.
Real-World Application: This lesson can encourage children to explore and take pride in their own heritage, and realize the importance of history and origins in shaping individual and communal identity.
Example Lesson: Resilience and adaptation
Explanation: The stories demonstrate how classic tales can be adapted to contemporary contexts and issues, highlighting resilience and the ability to thrive amidst change.
Real-World Application: Children learn the value of adapting to new situations and challenges, empowering them to navigate changes and obstacles in their lives constructively.