It is International Chihuahua Appreciation Day on 14th May. It celebrates the smallest dog breed, which was named after the state in Mexico, where it was first observed in the 19th century.
In the children's literature stratosphere when you think chihuahua, you think of Skippyjon Jones, but Skippyjon is not actually a chihuahua, but a Siamese cat who pretends he is a chihuahua. He has a group of imaginary Chihuahua friends, Los Chimichangos. The picture books about Skippyjon Jones are fun and have a loyal following in the library.
Skippyjon Jones is a children's picture book series, written and illustrated by Judith Byron Schachner. The first book was published in 2003, but there are more than ten titles now. The books are notable for their popularity amongst children, use of mock Spanish, and controversy over their representation of Latinos. Some states of America have tried to ban these books, but like all banned books I think it is better to discuss why they are banned and address the issue with my student readers. See the web page.
There are a few nonfiction books about chihuahuas,
and a few stories to search out in the library.
I never thought of myself as a fan of these tiny dogs, but occasionally my son minds one for a mate and he comes to visit us. He is very well behaved, very personable and a big personality so I have warmed to chihuahuas somewhat.
This post made me gasp! How can there be a chihuahua day! Not a breed of dog I especially like but the books look like fun! I haven’t seen any of them. Hope to read the skippyjon ones one day (soon).
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