“The Suitcase” by the author from the hit-television series Friends, is a heartwarming picture book that captures the transformative power of discovery and imagination. When a young boy visits his grandparents for the summer, he finds himself longing for excitement amidst the routine of reading and gardening. However, his perspective shifts when he stumbles upon a hidden suitcase in the attic, brimming with treasures and mysterious photographs. As he delves into the images of a young couple embarking on daring adventures and joyous escapades, the boy’s curiosity is piqued. Who are these adventurous souls captured in the photographs?
Primary (ages 6-9)
Material appropriate for primary age groups
Bilingue, Superhéroe / Bilingual, Super Hero
In Jorge Argueta’s delightful children’s book, meet Gerónimo Pérez, affectionately known as Bilingual. Embracing his bilingual identity with pride, Gerónimo effortlessly navigates between English and Spanish, reveling in the richness and fluidity of both languages. With a playful spirit, Gerónimo describes the joy of seamlessly switching between languages, likening it to a dance and savoring the taste of words on his tongue. He embraces his role as a linguistic bridge, effortlessly translating for his family and helping others in need. Accompanied by Elizabeth Gómez’s whimsical illustrations, this book celebrates the boundless enthusiasm and positivity of a young boy embracing his bilingual heritage. With its empowering message and vibrant storytelling, “Bilingual Superhero” is a captivating read that encourages children to embrace their linguistic abilities and reimagine what it means to be a hero.
The Mochi Makers
In this heartwarming story, a young girl and her grandmother take joy in a timeless tradition that celebrates family, heritage, and the power of memory. As Emi and Obaachan come together to make mochi, they honor a recipe that has been passed down through generations. With each step, they mix, pound, twist, and wrap, transforming simple ingredients into sticky, chewy Japanese rice cakes bursting with color and flavor.
Through the joyous act of making mochi, Emi and Obaachan find solace in the shared experience, weaving threads of love and tradition into each bite. As they laugh, reminisce, and embrace the present moment, they discover that the true magic of mochi lies not only in its delicious taste but also in the bonds of family and the memories that endure.
A Bindi Can Be …
A young girl embarks on a journey of discovery alongside her grandmother, Paati, as they explore the significance of bindis—the traditional red dot worn between the brows in Indian culture. Eager to understand the meaning behind the bindi, the girl learns from her grandmother the art of making one. Together, they blend turmeric, sandalwood powder, and ghee in a clay pot until the mixture transforms into a vibrant red hue—a process filled with magic and tradition. As they create bindis of various shapes and sizes, the girl realizes that her bindi represents more than just a dot. It is a symbol of celebration during festivals like Diwali, a source of inner calm and focus during everyday life, and a connection to her cultural heritage.
Angela’s Glacier
From the moment of her birth, Angela’s father introduces her to the glacier, carrying her on his back as they journey across its icy expanse. As Angela grows, so does her connection to the glacier, which becomes a trusted confidant and listener to her deepest thoughts and feelings. However, as Angela’s life becomes busier with school, hobbies, and friends, she begins to drift away from her beloved glacier. It’s not until she experiences a troubling heartache that she realizes the solace and wisdom the glacier offers.
In a heartwarming journey of self-discovery and connection to nature, Angela learns the importance of slowing down and reconnecting with the things that truly matter. With the guidance of her father, she rediscovers the healing power of her ancient icy friend.
Pedro And The Monster Eater / Pedro Y Los Devoradores De Monstruos
Pedro is a young boy from a family of talented artists specializing in papier-mâché sculptures. Growing up surrounded by creativity, Pedro learns the art of crafting piñatas, masks, and mojigangas—giant puppets used in Mexico’s vibrant parades and festivals. As Pedro grows older, he becomes increasingly involved in the family business, honing his skills in papier-mâché sculpture. However, tragedy strikes when Pedro falls ill, plagued by terrifying nightmares of the mojigangas coming to life and chasing him. In his dreams, he is saved by fierce creatures called alebrijes, who devour the monsters. Inspired by his dreams, Pedro begins to recreate the alebrijes using paper and glue, infusing them with vibrant colors and intricate patterns. Soon, his creations attract attention from far and wide, and people flock to buy Pedro’s monster eaters.
Based on the life of artist Pedro Linares, this bilingual picture book weaves together the fascinating origin story of Mexico’s beloved folk art with striking illustrations of the magical creatures Pedro creates. It serves as a captivating introduction to the world of art for young readers and a celebration of creativity, resilience, and the power of imagination. Perfect for parents and teachers seeking to inspire children’s interest in art and cultural traditions.
Mi Papá Es Un Agrícola / My Father, The Farm Worker
Set against the backdrop of endless fields stretching to the horizon, the story follows a day in the life of a farm worker through the eyes of his proud son. From sunrise to sunset, the father toils tirelessly, gathering the crops that sustain their community and fill their bellies.
Through lyrical prose and stunning illustrations, the book illuminates the sacrifice and hardship endured by farm workers as they labor to provide for their families. It celebrates their unwavering dedication and the deep love that drives them to work from dawn till dusk, shaping the natural world with their hands.
Presented in both English and Spanish, “Harvesting Love / Cosechando Amor” is a bilingual treasure that honors the contributions of farm workers while offering young readers a window into their world. Parents and children alike will be captivated by the rich tapestry of colors and the poignant message of resilience, perseverance, and the enduring bond between parent and child.
Black And White
Black and white are very different, but they soon discover that when they work together, they can do amazing things and have grand adventures.
The Carpet: An Afghan Family Story
Inspired by the author’s life, The Carpet takes readers to the day in the life of a young Afghan refugee, whose family remain connected to home through the carpet that serves as the centerpiece of their family life. Around the carpet they share meals, tell stories, laugh and share memories of their time shared back home.
This book is part of the Worlds of Words Global Reading List for 2023/24.
Homeland: My Father Dreams Of Palestine
In this autobiographical picture book, three young girls eagerly await for their father to tell them stories about his homeland of Palestine. It is through his memories of the Old City of Jerusalem that brings the city to life for the sisters, instilling love for a place they have never been and likely will never visit. But through their father’s memories, they will always return.