Funny Bones: Posada and His Day of the Dead Calaveras (Robert F. Sibert Informational Book Medal (Awards))

A New York Times Best Illustrated Children's Books of 2015 A Robert F.

Sibert Award Winner A Pura Belpré Illustrator Honor Book An ALA/ALSC Notable Children's Book Discover the story behind José Guadalupe Posada’s iconic Día de Muertos skeletons in this fascinating picture book from award-winning creator Duncan Tonatiuh Funny Bones tells the story of how calaveras came to be.

The amusing figures are the creation of Mexican artist José Guadalupe (Lupe) Posada (1852–1913).

Lupe learned the art of printing at a young age and soon had his own shop.

In a country that was not known for freedom of speech, he drew political cartoons, much to the amusement of the local population but not that of the politicians.

He continued to draw cartoons, but he is best known today for his calavera drawings.

They have become synonymous with Mexico’s Día de Muertos festival.

Calaveras are skeletons performing all sorts of activities, both everyday and festive: dancing in the streets, playing instruments in a band, pedaling bicycles, promenading in the park, and even sweeping the sidewalks.

They are not intended to be frightening, but rather to celebrate the joy of living as well as provide humorous observations about people.