In Guatemala, there is a village called Santiago Sacatepéquez. It is a very small but famous place because once a year, on the Day of the Dead, the people of Santiago fly some of the biggest kites in the world. As large as seven meters (twenty-three feet) in diameter, they fill the sky over the cemetery with brilliant colors.



Juan and his brothers always helped their grandfather build the kite for the Day of the Dead. But their grandfather has recently died, and the boys must carry on the tradition on their own. This beautifully photographed book shows us the village of Santiago and tells us Juan’s story as he gathers the materials, builds the kite and, finally, flies it with the help of his friends.

Photographs by: Joya Hairs