‘A Marvelous Mexican Misunderstanding’ Teaches Kids About the Day of the Dead

Woman holding a kid's picture book
Vamp Jenn reading A Marvelous Mexican Misunderstanding

El Día de los Muertos is a holiday celebrated in Mexico and other Latin American countries between November 1st and 2nd. It’s believed that the spirits of loved ones come back to visit the living. The occasion, which has roots in indigenous Mesoamerican traditions, is meant to honor the memory of the deceased and embrace death. While many adults look forward to the Day of the Dead, the concept behind it can be difficult for children to grasp, especially when they believe death is meant to be feared. However, a children’s book titled A Marvelous Mexican Misunderstanding sets out to change that.

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Connecting with the Beloved Dead Through ‘The Ofrenda Oracle’

Vamp Jenn with The Ofrenda Oracle
Vamp Jenn with The Ofrenda Oracle

When we find ourselves needing deeper insights into a particular aspect of our lives, we search for ways to attain that insight. Some go for a long walk to think, others seek advice from a mentor, and certain individuals turn to cartomancy. This form of divination involves using a deck of cards and is believed to have emerged centuries ago in Europe.

Tarot is perhaps the most popular type of cartomancy today, but there are also Oracle cards and Lenormand cards. The Ofrenda Oracle utilizes the Lenormand method while also possessing characteristics associated with Oracle cards. I used the deck for the first time and want to share my experience with it.

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Celebrating El Día de los Muertos at the Hollywood Forever Cemetery

Vamp Jenn at the Dia de los Muertos event at Hollywood Forever Cemetery
Vamp Jenn at the Día de los Muertos event at Hollywood Forever Cemetery

Since 2000, Hollywood Forever Cemetery in Los Angeles has been home to the largest Día de los Muertos celebration outside of Mexico, and I attended for the first time this year. For 2022, the festivities centered on Mayahuel, the Aztec goddess of fertility and the agave plant. There were separate daytime and nighttime events happening, and I went to the latter, Noche de los Muertos. It was an evening filled with beautiful performances, rituals, altars, and so much more.

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