Teach With My Work


​Los Comadres & Friends
National Latino Book Club
​
Fiction: Book of the Year

The Number on My Father's Arm / El número en el brazo de papá
​​English & Spanish Versions in the Same Book

Bilingual. Historical. Urgently Relevant.
​Grade Range: 7–10 (Ages 12–16)
Themes: Historical Memory • Intergenerational Trauma • War & Injustice • Latino Identity • Human Rights
Why Teach This Book

​The Number on My Father’s Arm is a bilingual novel that invites students to explore hidden histories through the eyes of a boy who slowly uncovers the painful truth behind the number tattooed on his father’s arm. Written in both English and Spanish, this emotionally resonant story offers a powerful gateway into discussions about the Holocaust, historical silence, and the impact of trauma on families—while also centering a Latino voice rarely seen in this kind of narrative.
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In today’s politically charged climate, where conversations around immigration, cultural erasure, and collective memory are more vital than ever, this novel offers teachers a tool to foster empathy, critical thinking, and culturally inclusive education.
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✔️ Aligns with ELA, History/Social Studies, and Ethnic Studies standards
✔️ Supports ESL and bilingual education programs
✔️ Builds cross-cultural understanding through narrative storytelling
✔️ Encourages civic awareness and personal reflection

​Critical Acclaim

​“Alvarado compares the evils of war and oppression, and how they manifest in current times. This powerful novel is a great reminder for mature readers that there is much to American culture that gets left unsaid and erased.”

— School Library Journal   (★ Starred Review)
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👉 Read Full Review
Classroom Materials

Download the official Teacher’s Guide with comprehension questions, writing prompts, classroom activities, and discussion extensions:
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👉 Download Teaching Guide (PDF)
Order in Bulk for Classroom Use

​Educators and schools may order directly from Piñata Books / Arte Público Press to receive classroom discounts and access to educator support materials.
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Phone: (713) 743-3128

Email: [email protected]

​Mailing Address:
Arte Público Press
University of Houston
4902 Gulf Freeway, Bldg. 19, Room 100
Houston, TX 77204-2004

Invite the Author

Interested in scheduling a school visit, Q&A, or virtual talk with your students?

​Contact Rodolfo by clicking here.
Book Details
  • Title: The Number on My Father’s Arm / El número en el brazo de papá
  • Author: Rodolfo Alvarado
  • Pages: 168
  • Format: Paperback | Bilingual (English & Spanish)
  • Publisher: Piñata Books / Arte Público Press
  • ISBN-13: 978-1558859012
  • Availability: Now Available