Américas Award Commended Title
New York Public Library Best Books for Kids
Chicago Public Library Best Picture Books
 
* “Perez lavishly portrays San Juan and New York City with beautiful artwork and crafts a tale that is sure to ring true to many children.”—School Library Connection, starred review

“Perez draws upon his own childhood experience of moving from Puerto Rico to Ohio, capturing the emotional experience of moving, adjusting, and remembering one’s culture and origins. Bright, bustling cartoon illustrations offer readers plenty to look at as they take in the two distinct cities alongside Miguel.”—Booklist

“The happy and positive message that not all new beginnings are to be feared is a welcome one.”—Kirkus Reviews

“Vivid spreads bring Miguel’s entwined trepidation and awe to life, resulting in a reassuring narrative.”—Publishers Weekly

“Vibrant, colorful illustrations depict the life and beauty of Puerto Rico and the rich diversity that can be found in Miguel’s new neighborhood. . . . and conveys the excitement, sadness, and new possibilities that Miguel experiences. This is a wonderful book with a comforting message, perfect for sharing with young readers who are experiencing big changes. . . . A strong choice for all collections.”—School Library Journal

09/03/2021

PreS-Gr 2—Miguel loves listening to his abuelito's stories, sharing meals with his family, and playing baseball with his friends and pet frog, Coquí. When Miguel and his parents have to move to the U.S. mainland, he has to leave so much that he loves in San Juan, Puerto Rico. Once in New York City, he is uncertain and misses his home, Miguel agrees to go out to explore their new neighborhood with Mamá. As they find familiar things they love—empanadillas, a baseball field, and even a pond full of frogs like Coquí—New York City begins to feel much more like home. Vibrant, colorful illustrations depict the life and beauty of Puerto Rico and the rich diversity that can be found in Miguel's new neighborhood. The text is available in English and Spanish editions and conveys the excitement, sadness, and new possibilities that Miguel experiences. This is a wonderful book with a comforting message, perfect for sharing with young readers who are experiencing big changes. Miguel is light-skinned. VERDICT A strong choice for all collections.—Selenia Paz, Harris County P.L., Houston