LKBF24 Picture Book Giveaway
On the first day of elementary school, Abuela soothes Gloriana’s nerves by telling her stories from their family home in la República Dominicana. But as soon as Gloriana enters the classroom, the tropical scenery crumbles and la música is replaced with English phrases she does not understand. When other kids approach her to play at recess, she freezes, uncertain about how to exist between her two homes, or how to make new friends between her two languages. Abuela recognizes echoes of her own immigration journey on this challenging day at school, and she gently guides Gloriana towards newfound confidence. This beautifully painted, imaginative picture book celebrates the magic of existing in-between, and the transformative power of self-soothing to build confidence.
An essential read for fans of The Queen of Kindergarten.
Though she was born before women on her island were allowed to vote, Felisa Rincón de Gautier did not let that stop her from becoming the first female mayor of San Juan, Puerto Rico, in 1946. Easily spotted on the streets of San Juan by her flair and the jasmine flowers braided into her hair, she radiated style and grace. Doña Fela, as she affectionately came to be called, loved her city.
Doña Fela was always ready to listen to problems and find solutions. With determination and resilience, she brought lasting change to the island. Doña Fela’s inspiring story as a visionary leader is brought to life on the page through stunning paintings that evoke the vibrant colors and culture of Puerto Rico.
★ “A thrilling mini-adventure” —Kirkus Reviews, starred review
★ “A positive message of creativity over warfare” —Shelf Awareness, starred review
In this charming Spanish language story, a young artist in a family of sword fighters will put his passions to the test when a dragon attacks the village.
Miguel was like a paintbrush in a family of steely swords …
All his life, Miguel’s familia told him he must fight! But his family’s art of sword fighting never captivated him as much as the sway of his colored pencils did.
When his village is threatened by El Dragón, Miguel must make a choice: will he stand with his familia and fight, or can he prove that the pencil is mightier than the sword?
With vibrant illustrations from award-winning artist Sara Palacios, this charming story of family tradition and self-discovery will inspire young readers to always follow their passions.
★ “A fabulous read-aloud that offers many opportunities for choral reading and movement, this will have everyone dancing and saying ‘One more!’ . . . . A great lesson in community and generosity.” —School Library Journal, starred review
Don Manuel and Doña Lila love welcoming others into their home—no one is ever turned away. One day, their casita overflows with friends and loved ones and the house begins to shake and crack, causing chaos before everyone rushes out. To the family’s dismay, their beloved home collapses. But where there is goodwill, there is also a way. In no time at all, their friends get to work and rebuild the casita, proving just how important teamwork is when fixing a problem.
This vibrant Latino retelling of a popular Scottish ballad celebrates kindness, community, and the selfless gesture of giving back.
“With this much-needed contribution to bilingual folktales, you can expect children to ask for uno más read.” —Booklist
A CCBC Choices Honor