The Power of Cultural Stories in Sparking Creativity
Have you ever watched a child's eyes light up as they flip through the pages of a vividly illustrated book, filled with stories and characters that come from worlds both familiar and far away? Read further on why these stories matter, and examples of some of our favorites!
One of my favorite books is “Same, Same but Different" by Jenny Sue Kostecki-Shaw. It is a story about two pen pals from America and India who discover how their lives are both unique and wonderfully similar, sparking curiosity about new places and cultures.
It's magical. Stories have this incredible ability to transport us—not just into adventures, but into cultural landscapes that spark our imagination, inspire creativity, and deepen our connection to the diverse community around us.
In today's beautifully diverse world, children are surrounded by friends, neighbors, and classmates whose cultural backgrounds create a colorful variety of experiences. Each story from another culture adds a new thread, enriching a child's understanding of the world and opening doors to endless creative possibilities.
Another favorite of mine is “Dear Primo: A Letter to My Cousin” by Duncan Tonatiuh. In this story, two cousins—one in Mexico, one in the United States—exchange letters, sharing their different yet parallel lives and cultures.
I like to create my own experience based on stories and imagine diving into the warmth of a Mexican folktale about family and friendship, crafting vibrant papel picado banners afterward to celebrate community. Or imagine I’m exploring a bustling Indian marketplace, followed by making colorful rangoli patterns together as a family.
At Growing Juntos, we believe that the power of storytelling goes beyond the pages. It's about experiences—reading together, creating art, and discovering traditions that shape us and bring communities closer.