Families who loved Oye, Celia!: A Song for Celia Cruz by Katie Sciurba often look for books with a similar feel. These 20 recommendations were selected for their similarity in style, theme, and reading level.
Reach for this book when your child is curious about their heritage, discovering the power of their own voice, or simply needs a high-energy celebration of music and community. It is an ideal choice for families looking to introduce the legacy of Celia Cruz through a lens of joy and cultural pride rather than just a list of biographical facts. The story follows a young girl at a vibrant neighborhood party where the sounds of salsa bridge the gap between generations. Through rhythmic, onomatopoeic prose, it explores themes of identity, the emotional range of music (from the sadness of exile to the 'Azucar!' of celebration), and the way art keeps history alive. For children ages 4 to 8, it offers a sensory-rich introduction to Cuban culture and the Queen of Salsa, perfect for building self-confidence and a sense of belonging.
