[Ad-gifted] Bright, colourful and bursting with intricate illustrations, Day of the Dead by Dominique Ehrhard and Anne-Flore Lemasson is a beautiful interactive pop-up book which brings one of Mexico’s most fascinating celebrations to life.
Published by Prestel, the book introduces children to Día de los Muertos, or Day of the Dead, a traditional Mexican celebration when families come together to remember and honour loved ones who have died.
With its spectacular three-dimensional scenes, vibrant colours and interactive elements, this is much more than an ordinary picture book. It is a wonderful way for children to discover the traditions and symbolism behind this joyful celebration.
What we thought of the book?
Jemma, aged five, is a huge fan of the Disney Pixar film Coco, so she has been fascinated by the Day of the Dead festival for some time. When I saw this book, I knew it would be something she would love.
The first thing that strikes you is just how bright and colourful it is. Every page is packed with vivid illustrations and intricate details, with spectacular pop-up scenes that really bring the celebration to life.
But what makes this book particularly special is how interactive it is. There are little doors to open, tabs to pull and move, and three-dimensional scenes to explore. Jemma absolutely loved discovering all the different elements, and it encouraged her to spend time looking closely at each page rather than simply turning to the next.
Having watched Coco more times than I can count, Jemma was already familiar with some of the imagery and traditions associated with Day of the Dead. It was lovely to see her enthusiasm for the film translate into a genuine curiosity about the celebration itself.
I also love that the book introduces children to a different culture in such an engaging and accessible way. Day of the Dead might sound like a rather sombre subject, but the celebration is full of colour, love and happy memories, and this is reflected beautifully throughout the book.
The pop-up illustrations are so impressive that I found myself spending just as much time admiring them as Jemma did. There is something new to discover each time you look, and the clever paper engineering makes it feel almost like a little work of art.
Unlike some children’s books that are read once and then put back on the shelf, this is one that Jemma will want to return to again and again, particularly around Halloween and Day of the Dead.
It is a truly beautiful book and one that feels very special. Definitely a book to treasure and keep for years to come.
Where can you buy Day of the Dead and how much is it?
Day of the Dead is available from good booksellers at £22.50. For stockists visit Prestel here.
About the Authors
Dominique Ehrhard is an artist, illustrator and paper engineer known for creating imaginative pop-up books that combine beautiful artwork with intricate three-dimensional designs. Together with Anne-Florence Lemasson, he has published numerous books, including one about bicycles which was published by Prestel.
About the Book
Publisher: Prestel
Print length : 14 pages (Six pop-up pages)
Format: Interactive 3D pop-up book
ISBN-13 : 978-3791376936
Item weight : 620g
Reading age : 5 – 9 years
Dimensions : 17.78 x 3.43 x 32.08 cm
Review by Danielle Booker
You may want to read this:
Review: Magical Woodland Halloween 2025 at Blakemere Village
Children’s Craft Review: Baker Ross Halloween Crafts
Spook-tacular Halloween Gifts : Treats, Not Tricks!
4 comments
The book of the dead seems an awesome one to gift to my nephew; he is fascinated with Halloween and keeps on asking me a gazillion questions about it.
I do love introducing new books to children especially ones that are not only fun to read but also teach about new things. This is definitely a book my daughter would have loved and one I can see my grandkids loving as well
I LOVE this book! It’s such a great way to get kids excited about reading, learning about new cultures, and into the Halloween spirit.
That is a really neat book! I can see why your daughter loves it. The design is so interesting, it makes sense that kids would really enjoy it.