Board Books

Madison, Megan & Jessica Ralli. Juntos. tr. from English by Yanitzia Canetti. illus. by Anne/Andy Passchier. 40p. (Primera Conversaciones). Penguin Workshop/Rise X. Dec. 2024. Board. $15.99. ISBN 9780593754696. SP
K-Gr 2–An excellent addition to the acclaimed series. This board book, perfect for reading aloud, gives parents a chance to start important conversations about the ways love can impact families and bring people closer together, whether they live under the same roof or not. Couples representing varied ages, shades, shapes, sizes, and genders are depicted, sharing what healthy relationships across the human spectrum look like. Vividly illustrated napping scenes, multicultural family gatherings, weddings, yoga classes, play dates, and neighborhood walks complement the interactive text that offers children and adults entry points to talk about diverse households in a safe and supported way. Insightful ideas for deeper discussion are provided at the conclusion. Librarians and teachers seeking resources to help Spanish-speaking families cover new territory about parenting and ways to love will appreciate the question-and-answer format to inspire discussion. VERDICT A must-read to have on hand for parents with youngsters who want to learn about and celebrate diverse families. Add to Spanish-language shelves.–Sharon Sherman

Picture Books

Castillo, Azahara. Diario de un donjuán del mar. illus. by Blanca Millán. 40p. Cuento de Luz. Mar. 2024. Tr $18.95. ISBN 9788419464217. SP
K-Gr 3–A human adult takes their dog for a morning stroll, along a windy, cold, and coastal shore. A nearby lighthouse shines upon a mysterious creature that catches the dog’s attention and heart. The enamored pet forgets about everything around him and is fixated on getting closer and closer to the love of his life. What starts as a story of a hopeless romantic dog then unravels action-packed scenarios that serve as secondary characters and story lines into the “donjuán” quest for love. Whimsical illustrations complement this picture book from Spain that showcases a narrative of finding love, its disappointments, and unexpected twists of life itself. VERDICT A fun choice for Spanish-language shelves.–Sujei Lugo

Cárdenas, C.C. Isabel y Pedro en su país nuevo. illus. by Aida Khatmullina. 36p. Purple Butterfly Pr. Oct. 2024. pap. $10.95. ISBN 9781955119566. SP
K-Gr 2–A tale of recent immigration, through the eyes of two young children. Isabel and Pedro have recently arrived in the United States from different cities in Mexico. They are both struggling with their new environment, language, and school. As their families make a new life in this country, both kids expand their social circles, experiences, and hobbies. Told with hope and grit, this book highlights the diverse experiences of children who have immigrated. As Isabel and Pedro aspire to a better future for themselves, they both wish for a time where their Mexican and American selves can thrive. With pleasant and clear illustrations ideal for young readers, this book is a perfect addition to collections serving Spanish-speaking patrons. VERDICT A must-have purchase for libraries serving immigrant communities and school libraries in need of bilingual books.–Carolina Youssif

Deedy, Carmen Agra. El manisero. tr. from English by Emily Carrero-Mustelier. illus. by Raúl Colón. 48p. Peachtree. Mar. 2025. Tr $18.99. ISBN 9781682638033. SP
K-Gr 2–A young Cuban girl longs for her home after immigrating to the United States in the 1960s. Coqui lives in Havana and has a friendly relationship with the neighborhood’s peanuts seller. The two talk every day and greet each other with funny faces. When Coqui’s parents move the family to Georgia, she longs for the familiar faces and smells of the home she will never go back to. Through baseball, she gradually feels more at ease, especially as she sees that a man selling peanuts at the stadium reminds her of what she’s left behind. With beautiful illustrations and thoughtful text, the book takes readers on a nostalgic journey between countries and memories. The author’s note makes the story even more special, because Deedy shares that Coqui’s experiences are based on her own. A gentle tale of immigration, relationships, childhood memories, and home. VERDICT A great purchase for libraries serving communities with Cuban immigrants and in need of Spanish books.–Carolina Youssif

Gervais, Bernadette. All Kinds of Things/Todo tipo de cosas. tr. by Lawrence Schimel. illus. by Bernadette Gervais. 56p. Milky Way. Nov. 2024. Tr $21.99. ISBN 9781990252365. BL
Toddler-PreS–What do race cars and ostriches have in common? How about flowers, umbrellas, and tin cans? In this bilingual picture book, Gervais creates a colorful reference text in English and Spanish that offers young readers new ways to investigate objects and phenomena by posing imaginative questions about their similarities. Consider, for example, that yellowjackets, safety pins, and forks can all prick, or sting (pican), while pliers, clothespins, and crabs or lobsters pinch (pinzan). Learners will enjoy how some words are spelled similarly across languages, like kangaroo (canguro) or carp (carpe), if not exactly, as with perfume (to later discover that perfume is stressed differently). Compound words are also featured (as with rainbow/arcoiris) to exemplify how language, in general, uses literal and figurative terms to make meaning. This work will engage and entertain readers who can link different things easily through simple observations of their natural states or uses. Photos accompany each word pair across all categories, prompting children to ask more questions when exploring their own surroundings and make more personal, illuminating connections on their own. VERDICT A great choice for early childhood shelves.–Sharon Sherman

Herreros, María. Melena de León: El poder de ser auténtico. illus. by María Herreros. 48p. PRH Grupo Editorial. Sept. 2024. Tr $18.95. ISBN 9788427241589. SP
K-Gr 2–Leon is very upset, and not even his parents, his favorite foods, or toys make him feel better. Once again, he was made fun of at school, and this time it hurt more than usual. Previously, the other children made fun of his jacket or made fun of his nail polish, both of which he was easily able to take off. But this time around, they made fun of something that was part of him: his long hair. He loves his hair, since he uses it to hide behind when he is feeling shy or when he pretends to be a ferocious lion. The gorgeous, stylized illustrations are fluid and show off the boy’s luscious locks to full effect. Even after talking it over with his parents and a psychologist, he decides to cut his hair. He is still bullied. With the help of a friend, Leon learns to love all of the parts of himself, especially the ones he can’t change. This is a great choice for reading aloud and anti-bullying lessons. VERDICT A general purchase for where Spanish-language picture books on bullying are needed.–Melanie Ortega

Isern, Susanna. Julia Giganta: Se siente pequeña. illus. by Beatriz Castro. 48p. Beascoa. Sept. 2024. Tr $16.95. ISBN 9788448846770. SP
K-Gr 3–Julia the Giant is a young girl who lives in the magical land of the giants. She is always smiling, willing to help others, and loves to bake chocolate and cinnamon cake. Her imagination is as big as she is, but it gets her into trouble. At home, while she is watching her little brother, she becomes so distracted pretending she is a pirate, he gets hurt. At school, she is writing on the board and doesn’t even realize she is painting the walls. She doesn’t seem to get anything right. Although she is big in size and in heart, she begins to feel as small as an ant. Julia decides to run away to the land of the humans, where she meets Bruno, a boy wizard, who shows her that the labels we give ourselves do more harm than good. This thoughtful text will remind readers that they are all important just as they are, no matter what their inner voices may say. Castro’s fairy-talelike art will charm readers. VERDICT Children will appreciate the journey Julia the Giant makes and the lessons she learns along the way.–Melanie Ortega

Martí, Meritxell. Una casa monstruosa. illus. by Xavier Salomó. 40p. Editorial Flamboyant. Sept. 2024. Tr $20.44. ISBN 9788410090217. SP
K-Gr 2–A silly picture book focusing on the creatures that go bump in the night. The monsters meet in a secret corner of the city to vent about their current living spaces. They’ve all encountered reasons to move from their quarters, but don’t know what to do. Luckily, Mummy has a business card from Evil Homes, a real estate agency, that seems to be the answer to all of their problems. In the middle of the night, they meet with Bibi of the Valley, an agent, and she shows them all the terribly beautiful houses of their nightmares. Unfortunately, none of the monsters have any money. After Bibi kicks them all out, the witch comes up with a solution that solves all of their problems. A little boy turns out to be just the thing they need. This imaginative and entertaining tale with familiar ghouls will delight kids, and the illustrations add to the book’s appeal. It would also make for a great read aloud and creative writing prompt. VERDICT Purchase for most Spanish-language collections, especially those lacking humor titles.–Melanie Ortega

Messier, Mireille. El sombrero mágico. tr. from French by Irene Vílchez. illus. by Charlotte Parent. 52p. Editorial Flamboyant. Oct. 2024. Tr $19.30. ISBN 9788410090286. SP
PreS-Gr 3–Ready for some forest magic? Arlo and Isaura are racing against time to save their pet hedgehog, Pinchitos. They know that gnomes have magic powers, but finding one in the forest is not easy when there is little to offer from their home in exchange. Deciding to entice a gnome with food, Arlo and Isaura find out that forest animals love treats, too! Gnomes each wear a bright red hat as they observe the friends and eventually compensate them for their troubles. The bond that grows between forest animals and the protagonists is tenderly rendered through Parent’s illustrations and Messier’s flowing text. Colorful words and images grace each page as all of the forest’s creatures follow the kids home with the gnomes in tow. Readers will enjoy looking for gnomes when red caps pop up in the forest scenes. They’ll marvel at how sharing brings about a happy ending for Pinchitos and those who care for him. VERDICT The Spanish text provides ample opportunity for educators and parents to delve into conversations about forests, fairy tales, and friendship so young readers learn new words along the way!–Sharon Sherman

Pfister, Marcus. Buenas noches, pequeño Pez Arcoíris. tr. from English by David Bowles. illus. by Marcus Pfister. 32p. (Rainbow Fish). NorthSouth. Apr. 2025. Tr $19.95. ISBN 9780735845817. SP
PreS-Gr 2–Rainbow Fish cannot sleep and turns to the comfort of his mother in this Spanish translation of the well-known picture book. When pequeño Pez Arcoíris is unable to fall asleep, his mamá comes to provide comfort and stay with him for a little while. When she promises to always be by his side, pequeño Pez Arcoíris asks, what if a strong current sweeps him away? Or he becomes trapped in the tentacles of a jellyfish? Each time pequeño Pez Arcoíris thinks of a situation, his mother replies with how she will help him and make sure he is safe, until, at last, the little Rainbow Fish falls asleep. This lovely picture book shares the uncertainties children may have that require the comfort and love of a parent and combines the lovely illustrations familiar to many readers with an excellent translation into Spanish that will make this a regular read. VERDICT A lovely story, great translation, and classic illustrations make this edition a great choice for Spanish-language picture book collections.–Selenia Paz

Romero, Estefanía. Cambios. illus. by Àgata Gil Capeta. 40p. (Grandes herramientas para pequeños guerreros). Editorial Flamboyant. Sept. 2024. Tr $16.51. ISBN 9788410090347. SP
Gr 1-4–Part of this collection that hopes to provide “big tools for small warriors,” this volume focuses on how changes affect kids’ wellbeing and feelings. This title begins with defining what “cambios” are, from simple changes, such as a haircut, to life-altering changes that come with bad news, such as the illness or death of a loved one. Each major change is discussed along with the feelings that may accompany it. Suggestions on what to do when receiving bad news are explored, such as turning to trusted people with questions and allowing feelings to exist—cry if needed, and do not hold feelings in. Examples of different types of change are shared along with their pros and cons, such as how moving means losing your friends, but it also means making new ones. Readers are encouraged to take care of themselves as well as others and to share their emotions with trusted loved ones. Kids are reminded to be aware of others around them who may be having a difficult time. The art palette features purples, yellows, and reds on white backgrounds to show the range of the characters’ emotions. The conversational and informative tone is inviting and encourages readers to explore their emotions and to think back on times of big change. VERDICT An encouraging and informative text, this Spanish title is an excellent choice for SEL shelves.–Selenia Paz

Seales, Stephanie. Mi papá es un cowboy. tr. by Lucy Cristina Chau. illus. by C.G. Esperanza. 48p. Vintage Español. Dec. 2024. Tr $18.95. ISBN 9798890982469. SP
Gr 2-5–Papá rides his horse, Power, and our young narrator rides her “poni” Clover in this introspective story about their love of horses. This Spanish-language picture book offers vivid images of city cowboys, linking one Panamanian family to the cowboy tradition, with an urban twist. Birds wake up as father and daughter mosey past storefronts and cafés, and he tells her how he became a cowboy. Neighbors open their shops and wave hello while the sun rises. Back at the ranch, Papá’s cowboy friends gather to start their day, and our storyteller’s morning with dad is over, but the best memory of this ride will always be bound to spending time with Papá, the cowboy. Seales’s text beautifully complements Esperanza’s nighttime scenes on a ranch and pre-dawn street scenes in the city. Opportunities abound in this book for both family and classroom conversations about urban and country life—and may generate more avenues for budding authors to absorb what brings people from different communities together. VERDICT Spanish-language readers will enjoy the journey, learning new words and connecting with cowboy life through the eyes of a young girl on horseback.–Sharon Sherman

Transitional

Díaz Reguera, Raquel. Una sensación que da bocados. illus. by Lucía Serrano. 64p. (La tribu de Kai: Bk. 3). Editorial Flamboyant. Sept. 2024. Tr $14.74. ISBN 9788410090224. SP
Gr 2-4–Kai’s funny and loving tribe returns in the third installment in this chapter book series. Kai and her tribe have found themselves somewhere with soft, white sand next to a large body of water that continues on forever, and they aren’t able to find a way back home. While there doesn’t appear to be as many dangers here as back home, and they have found many tasty things to eat, they still get homesick. Some of the kids get a strange sensation that someone’s watching them. They soon discover a small child. Sula, the oldest member of their tribe, takes charge and comforts the child. But it makes them wonder whether they are not alone. When the child disappears, they discover that Sula has been captured by another tribe. They work together, with a little bit of luck on their side, to scare off the other tribe and ensure their safety, for the time being. The likable characters and story’s humor are sure to delight fans new and old, and the colorful and equally fun illustrations bring the characters to life and work perfectly with the fun, action-filled story. Fans of the series won’t want to miss this entry, while new readers will be able to jump in as one of the tribe members fills readers in on what has happened to them so far. VERDICT An excellent and fun addition to Spanish chapter book collections for children.–Selenia Paz

Martín Piñol, Joan Antoni. Una pizza para el dragón. illus. by Erica Salcedo. 160p. (Crónicas de Pizzania: Bk. 1). Editorial Flamboyant. Sept. 2024. Tr $18.22. ISBN 9788410090194. SP
Gr 1-4–An intrepid girl and a pizza-hungry dragon clash wills in this hilarious, illustrated chapter book. Iris is not content to stay at home sewing and cooking in her medieval-like Spanish town. Instead, she informs Luigi Martinelli, a blacksmith-turned-pizza chef, that she is now his apprentice. The round and saucy treat was newly introduced to the kingdom, and the community is obsessed, including the cantankerous king. The pair just can’t keep up. Iris recruits knights as delivery guys, and their business is a mouth-watering success, eventually reaching a bored dragon, who won’t rest until he’s eaten every single slice—even if that means destroying the whole kingdom. Brave and problem-solving Iris takes the conflict into her own hands in this silly romp. Newly independent readers will enjoy the characters’ high jinks, with each chapter more preposterous than the last. The plot sometimes gets tangled, but kids will be enjoying themselves so much, they won’t mind. The pencil-like illustrations are done in a limited palette of red, white, and black and complement the narrative, depicting the characters with bulgy eyes and over-the-top poses. VERDICT This Spanish-language fairy tale will charm chapter book readers who will look forward to the next installment.–Shelley Diaz

Moser, Erwin. El abeto. tr. from German by Núria Albesa. illus. by Erwin Moser. 64p. (El gato Boris: Bk. 5). Editorial Flamboyant. Oct. 2024. Tr $15.94. ISBN 9788418304835. SP
PreS-Gr 2–Emerging pre-readers and youngsters who want to write and illustrate their own short stories will enjoy this fifth Boris book. Eight beautifully illustrated Spanish-language adventures feature Boris, an adventurous black-and-orange striped cat, and some of his forest friends. Boris cleverly helps injured hedgehog Ernesto ice skate, and the two later learn that tractors don’t fare as well on a frozen lake. Children will also learn what it takes to cut down a fir tree on a snowy day or how to weather a blizzard on skis to get to a friend’s house. Each winter tale presents a problem that is resolved in a few pages, introducing Spanish vocabulary and situations that are both inventive and humorous. Great care is taken in this volume to bring Moser’s text alive in Spanish. Focusing on friendship and kindness, these mini-stories are properly translated and provide tidy resolutions when Boris runs into trouble skiing, driving a tractor, and prepping for a costume party, among other delightful adventures. Happy endings abound and children will be inspired when Boris’s quick thinking comes into full view. VERDICT A wonderful choice for transitional readers.–Sharon Sherman

Middle Grade

Garza, Xavier. Racing at Devil’s Bridge and Other Stories/Carreras en le puente del Diablo y otros cuentos. tr. by Alaíde Ventura Medina. illus. by Xavier Garza. 129p. Arte Público. Oct. 2024. pap. $14.95. ISBN 9798893750034. BL
Gr 4-8–Creatures from Latin American folklore are waiting at the turn of a page in this fun and spooky bilingual story collection. While stories of the creatures included in the book have been around for many years, this collection brings them into a modern setting with young characters. Stories include characters like the infamous La Llorona, a small demon dog who chases two cousins out of a cemetery, and a ghost chancla ready to teach anyone a painful lesson. While some entries are humorous, others also convey a darker or more serious tone, and the final tale brings everything perfectly together. Each story includes a striking full-page, black-and-white illustration, often depicting the creature from the story. Half of the book includes the stories in English, and the other half features the Spanish translations, making this a great choice for Spanish, English, or bilingual speakers. VERDICT Perfect for fans of folklore and readers who love scary and short stories, this bilingual story collection is a great addition to school and public libraries.–Selenia Paz

Navarro Gezan, Andrea & Pablo Ruiz T. El gran libro del cambio climático. 48p. Beascoa. Nov. 2024. Tr $18.95. ISBN 9798890981943. SP
Gr 3-6–This nonfiction text is a detailed look at climate change and its causes. The greenhouse effect, deforestation, and our carbon footprint are only a few of the many topics covered in this graphic novel-like informational book. This text explains the various ways our planet is being negatively affected by climate change each day. Kids will learn about the impact of climate change on bees and how that affects the food that we eat. Rampant wildfires mean a diminishing supply of healthy air. Many of the scientific concepts that can be daunting for most are visually explained with graphics that keep readers flipping the pages. The jewel-tone and cartoony illustrations make a complex topic more accessible. This can be a touchstone text for a whole unit on climate change. Readers will enjoy not only learning about the reality facing our world today but will also feel empowered to make steps toward taking care of the planet. Instead of traditional bibliography in the back matter, sources are sprinkled throughout. VERDICT Purchase for all Spanish-language nonfiction shelves, especially where there’s a curriculum gap. Truly an excellent book.–Melanie Ortega