Multicultural Literature for Latino Bilingual Children

While there are several volumes that fall into the category of children's literature, there appears to be relatively few that explore the needs of bilingual learners and the linguistic and sociocultural context of Latino children's literature. This second edition continues to make a needed contribution by addressing the social, cultural, academic, and linguistic needs of bilingual learners who are still underserved through current school practices. In addition, this volume presents a balance of theory, research, and practice. It is our challenge, to make sure that we can speak to authentic multicultural Latino literature and to ensure its availability for all students. The book also aims to conceptualize the different forms of social knowledge that can serve as cultural resources for acquiring knowledge and transforming self and identity. Multicultural Literature for Latino Bilingual Children 2nd Edition will create a heightened awareness of the cultural and linguistic capital held by the Latino community, to increase Latino students' social capital through the design of critical pedagogical practices for Latino students, and for the formulation of a new perspective, that of Latino multicultural literature for children.

Belinda Bustos Flores, PhD, is a professor of bicultural-bilingual studies and former associate dean at the University of Texas at San Antonio. Her research focuses on teacher development including self-concept, ethnic identity, efficacy, beliefs, teacher recruitment/retention, high stakes testing, and family cultural knowledge. She has been recognized by the AERA Hispanic Research SIG (2015) and the Bilingual Research SIG (2019). Flores is founder of the Academy for Teacher Excellence Research Center.

Daniel Alejandro González, PhD, is a critical arts educator and filmmaker. At an urban public library, he supports learning through multilingual, multicultural, and digital literacy.Focusing on social positionalities, his research examines how creativity, critical reflection, and public discourse challenge dominant narratives and promote learning. His work and praxis also emphasizes building coalitions, managing conflict in intercultural settings, and curbing administrative violence.

Ellen Riojas Clark, PhD, is professor emerita of bicultural-bilingual studies at the University of Texas at San Antonio. UTSA has established The Ellen Riojas Clark, Ph.D. Endowed Chair in Bicultural Bilingual Studies, this is the only chair named for a Latina scholar in the United States. Her research examines self-concept, teacher identity, ethnic identity, efficacy, and Latino cultural studies.