The whole town of San Lorenzo is preparing for the annual Christmas parade. Eleven-year-old Maria Gonzaga listens longingly to her friends’ plans for their floats. Their families are hiring designers to create breath-taking floats – and Maria longs to participate.
But San Lorenzo’s parade has long been for the wealthy Anglo ranchers, not the Mexican-Americans.
Suddenly, Maria decides this year will be different. This year her family will participate.
Her family is horrified – how can they compete with the wealthy ranchers? They will be the laughingstock of the town!
At almost the last minute, an idea forms…
Maria: A Christmas Story by Theodore Taylor is a story of overcoming economic and cultural barriers, and discovering the true meaning of Christmas.
Highly recommended for ages 4 and up (as a read-aloud); ages 8 and up (as a reader).
Cultivating Readers 
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