Book Review: Funny Bones: Posada and his Day of the Dead Calaveras

Meet the Book: Tonatiuh, Duncan. (2015). Funny Bones: Posada and his Day of the Dead Calaveras. Abrams Books for Young Readers. 

Lexile: N/A

Summary: Funny Bones follows the life and times of Jose Guadalupe Posada, the creator of Mexico’s famous calaveras (skeleton) drawings. The story shows how Posada drew at an early age and followed his passions to working in a print shop, where he learned the techniques he would use to create his famous graphics. The book even shows simplified steps of different types of printmaking, such as lithography. The end of the book includes further information about el Dia de Muertos (Day of the Dead), a glossary, and museums where Posada’s art is still displayed. Funny Bones is the winner of multiple honors and awards, such as the Robert F. Siber award and the Pura Belpré Illustrator Honor Book.

Before reading Funny Bones, I was familiar with el Dia de Muertos calaveras images but didn’t know anything about the history of how they were created or who created them. This book was a great, brief introduction into the history of Posada and his creations, and I liked that Tonatiuh included a more in-depth history of el Dia de Muertos and how Posada’s calaveras became a part of this day’s traditions. I also loved that there’s a section listing where Posada’s work can be seen by readers; the closest location (at least at the publication of this book) is at the Art Institute of Chicago. It also lists the New York Public Library as another location. Road trip, anyone?

This would be a great recommendation for young artists, as it shows how Posada loved art as a young boy and continued with his love of art and turned it into a profession! It also shows the evolution of Posada’s work, showing a political cartoon Posada created at the beginning of his career and then the calaveras later on. I also think this is a perfect book to share during Hispanic Heritage Month, as it brings to light the history behind these famous skeletal creations that are even seen in pop culture. One of Posada’s most famous calavera, la Catrina, is a popular figure I’ve seen recreated in Halloween decorations at local chain stores. It shows that different cultures influence us everyday, and they should be given the credit they deserve. 

Tonatiuh’s artwork reminds me of ancient Aztec and Mayan artwork and carvings, with the simplistic two-dimensional figures and spiral ears/noses. I thought this was an interesting choice compared to Posada’s very detailed prints! 

One of my favorite parts of the book is when Tonatiuh has the reader try to think about the inspiration behind Posada’s calaveras, saying “the inspiration behind some of [his] calalveras is clear, but for others it is not. We can try to interpret what they mean” (pg. 19). He then shows one of Posada’s calaveras, then gives a possible interpretation, such as with la Catrina. 

“The drawing was printed alongside a calavera poem about the type of woman who puts on makeup and fancy clothes and acts if she’s better than everyone else. Can you imagine the woman who inspired that drawing?” (pg. 22). He then continues by interpreting what Posada could have been saying, maybe that “no matter how fancy your clothes are on the outside, on the inside we are all the same?” (pg. 23). Food for thought…

Tonatiuh has written and illustrated multiple books on Latinx experiences, famous historical figures, and Mexican myths and legends. After reading Funny Bones, I’m interested in reading more of his works, as Tonatiuh gives great information about the book’s topic (at least with Funny Bones), but not so much that the reader feels overwhelmed. This would be a great beginning place for a research project either on Posada, Dia de Muertos, or even printmaking. I highly recommend this to anyone who is interested in Hispanic/Latinx heritage, printmaking, or Posada himself. 

Readalikes:

School Age: Day of the Dead by Tony Johnston

A colorful book that follows a family getting ready for el Dia de Muertos festivities. The bright, colorful illustrations mimic the colorful decorations of the holiday, and the book includes a glossary at the end for Spanish words used throughout. A wonderful example of how and why families celebrate Dia de Muertos; I would recommend using this along with Funny Bones as it shows some calaveras inside!

Tweens: Day of the Dead by Linda Lowry 

Day of the Dead covers basic history behind Dia de Muertos and how it is celebrated in present times. The illustrations are drawn to look like they were created through engraving prints, seeming to give a nod to Posada’s printmaking and calaveras (maybe this wasn’t intentional, but now knowing the history behind Posada’s calaveras, I see the similarities!).

Teens: Jose Guadalupe Posada and the Mexican Broadside

This book covers Posada’s work and its influence from and on the Mexican Revolution, as well as Posada’s influence on Mexican printmakers in the 19th/20th century. It includes both English and Spanish text, which I thought was great, especially for students learning Spanish.