This November 20th marks World Children’s Day, a celebration dedicated to promoting children’s rights and welfare. The day holds special significance, commemorating the adoption of the Declaration of the Rights of the Child by the United Nations in 1959.
A valuable resource to explore is the child-friendly version of the declaration available on UNICEF’s website, where both children and adults can learn about these fundamental rights. Currently available in English, French, Spanish, Arabic, and Chinese, it’s an excellent starting point for meaningful conversations with the little ones in your life… And with other adults too! Check it out here!
Among the rights highlighted is the right to rest, play, culture, and the arts, reminding us how essential cultural access is for children’s development and happiness. At Kulttuurikeskus Ninho, we are passionate about ensuring families have access to enriching cultural experiences through books, events, and activities that inspire connection.
This year, we are celebrating the 9th edition of the Ninho Book Program, which has been bringing Spanish and Portuguese children’s literature to public libraries across Finland. As the year comes to a close, this milestone gives us yet another reason to celebrate.
Book recommendations included in the Kolibrí Collection of children’s books
In honor of World Children’s Day and this special anniversary, we are excited to share a curated list of book recommendations made possible through the collaboration with Ninho and the embassies of Argentina, Chile, Portugal and Uruguay in 2021. The donations include not only children’s books but also titles for young readers and adults, ensuring a broad selection of reading material. These exceptional books, now available through the Helsinki Metropolitan Area Libraries (Helmet) to other public libraries, bring joy, inclusion, and creativity to readers nationwide.
🌟 ¿Dónde está Tomás? by Micaela Chirif, illustrated by Leire Salaberria
Tomás is definitely not at home with his mom—he’s off on an adventure! First, he takes a trip to space, then he roams through the jungle, and who knows where his mom ends up next? This whimsical story, brought to life with delightful illustrations, is just one gem from Peruvian author Micaela Chirif. Don’t miss her other works in Spanish, including an illustrated Quechua-Spanish dictionary, available in libraries.
🌟 ¡Corre, pequeño Chaski! by Mariana Llanos, illustrated by Mariana Ruiz Johnson
Get ready for an exciting journey with pequeño Chaski! This Inca boy has an important mission, and you’ll be cheering him on every step of the way. Peruvian author Mariana Llanos weaves a tale of perseverance, paired with vibrant illustrations by Argentine artist Mariana Ruiz Johnson. Ruiz Johnson’s other books can be found in English, Italian, and Arabic.
🌟 Las onomatobellas by Ruth Kaufman, illustrated by Irma Bastida Herrera
This wow, wow book is a playful exploration of onomatopoeias, rhythm, and poetic sound, perfect for children (and obviously adults!) who love the beauty of language and images.
🌟 La mancha de humedad by Juana de Ibarbourou, illustrated by Matías Acosta
A timeless classic brimming with poetic beauty and nostalgia. Who hasn’t gazed at clouds and imagined animals in their ever-changing shapes? Or discovered endless stories hidden in the stains on a wall? This enchanting tale is brought to life by the evocative illustrations of Uruguayan artist Matías Acosta, inviting readers to see the magic in the everyday.
🌟 A Trompa Dourada do Elefante Gigante by Carlos Nuno Granja, illustrated by Dina Sachse
If you’re looking for a story that celebrates differences as treasures (and who isn’t?), this book is a must-read. It follows the journey of an elephant who feels self-conscious about his appearance. During the course of the story, he learns what truly matters, reminding us all that we are so much more than what is visible. Who are we? What defines us? Where do we belong? What makes us unique? Is appearance all there is? These are questions we’ve all asked ourselves at one point…or maybe several times. Other books in Portuguese from these creators are also available.
Finde more children's books in Spanish and Portuguese in the Kolibrí Collection
Remember, books offer more than just knowledge—they spark our imagination, reveal glimpses of possible worlds, and offer comfort with stories that make life more bearable. This winter, grab a cozy blanket, a cup of hot tea (or perhaps hot chocolate with marshmallows?), and dive into one of these stories to share with your loved ones.
From all of us at Kulttuurikeskus Ninho, thank you for celebrating with us. Here’s to another year of inspiring young minds and spreading a love for literature.
See you in 2025!
Get to know the author, Ivonne Carlos
Expert in Community Engagement and Culture at Cooperative 3E in Vaasa. MA in literature from the University of Bologna. Workshop facilitator, reading mediator, and creator of autonomous libraries. She adores dogs, loves baby drool, and can’t live without spicy food. She has published books, is an independent researcher, and activist.
