By: Meg Medina
Release Date: August 25, 2015
Audience: Kindergarten-3rd grade
Mia’s abuela has left her sunny house with parrots and palm trees to live with Mia and her parents in the city. The night she arrives, Mia tries to share her favorite book with Abuela before they go to sleep and discovers that Abuela can’t read the words inside. So while they cook, Mia helps her learn English and Mia learns some Spanish too. Still though, Abuela struggles with the words she needs to tell Mia all her stories. Then one day, Mia sees a parrot in the pet-shop window and has the perfect idea for how to help them all communicate a little better.
Not only is this book a great way to introduce kids to Spanish, but it also is excellent for introducing them to cultural diversity and the importance of language. The bond that grows between Mia and Abuela as they begin to finally be able to communicate shows that we all can learn from each other and help one another grow. The illustrations are lovely, soft, and bright, which makes the story come alive and have a sort of warm feel to it. This story would be excellent as a read-aloud, bedtime story, or really an anytime story!