What are some special foods or traditions in your family?

This is a discussion prompt for Jalapeño Bagels by Natasha Wing. Use it to spark conversation with your child after reading.

If you had to bring something to International Day, what would it be and why?

This is a discussion prompt for Jalapeño Bagels by Natasha Wing. Use it to spark conversation with your child after reading.

How does Pablo feel about having two different cultures in his family? How do you think he feels at the end of the story?

This is a discussion prompt for Jalapeño Bagels by Natasha Wing. Use it to spark conversation with your child after reading.

What makes Pablo's family special?

This is a discussion prompt for Jalapeño Bagels by Natasha Wing. Use it to spark conversation with your child after reading.

What new foods or cultures would you like to learn about?

This is a discussion prompt for Jalapeño Bagels by Natasha Wing. Use it to spark conversation with your child after reading.

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Jalapeño Bagels

Name: Jalapeño Bagels
ISBN: 9780689805301

by Natasha Wing

For International Day, Pablo wants to bring something that celebrates both his Mexican and Jewish cultures. He visits his parents' bakery, exploring different delicious options before finding the perf

About This Book

In Natasha Wing's heartwarming story, Pablo faces a delightful dilemma: what to bring to International Day at school that truly represents both his Mexican and Jewish parents' cultures? He explores the delicious offerings at his family's bakery, from challah to pan dulce, ultimately discovering a unique creation that beautifully blends his heritage. This book is perfect for children aged 4-8, offering a gentle exploration of cultural identity, family traditions, and the joy of sharing. It encourages conversations about what makes each family special and how different cultures can come together.

For International Day at school, Pablo wants to bring something that reflects the cultures of both his parents.

Concepts

Self-Confidence & Identity Love & Family Curiosity & Wonder Empathy & Kindness Joy & Gratitude Teamwork & Collaboration Cultural Identity Being Different Family & Siblings School Life

Wonderlit Review

Jalapeno Bagels is a charming and culturally rich picture book that gently explores the theme of cultural identity through the relatable lens of a school project and family food. Pablo, the young protagonist, is tasked with bringing something to International Day that reflects his heritage. His dilemma is unique and specific: how to honor both his Mexican mother's and Jewish father's traditions. The story follows Pablo as he visits his parents' bustling bakery, observing and tasting various items, from challah to pan dulce, before a moment of inspiration leads him to the perfect, unifying creation: jalapeno bagels. The book handles the sensitive topic of mixed cultural heritage with warmth and celebration, presenting it as a source of richness and pride rather than conflict. The emotional arc is one of gentle discovery and growing self-confidence, moving from Pablo's initial thoughtful pondering to a joyful resolution. This book is specifically for children who come from multicultural families, those who are curious about different cultures, or any child preparing for a school event that involves sharing family traditions. A parent might reach for this book when their child is asking questions about their own heritage, preparing for a cultural fair, or simply to expose them to diverse family structures and traditions. No specific parent preparation is needed, as the themes are universally positive and affirming. Younger children (ages 4-6) will enjoy the delicious descriptions of food and the family dynamic, while older children (ages 7-8) will more deeply grasp Pablo's quest for identity and the blending of cultures. What sets this book apart is its specific focus on Mexican and Jewish cultures, and how it uses food, a universal connector, as a tangible symbol of cultural fusion and family love.