Books for kids. Libros para niños.
Two picture books out, both in English and Spanish. Both about family. Both award-winning, which I'm still getting used to saying out loud. Read on to learn more, or find one at your local bookstore.
Papá's Magical Water Jug Clock
El Barrilito Mágico de Papá.
Little Jesús is excited to spend a Saturday with his landscaper Papá at the “family business.” He loves Papá's cool truck and all the tools he gets to use. Papá even puts him in charge of the magical water jug, which is also a clock! When it's empty, Papá explains, the workday will be done. It's a big job, and Jesús wants to do it right. But he just can't help giving water to an array of thirsty animals—a dog in a sweater, some very old cats, and a flock of peacocks. Before he knows it, the magical water jug is empty—but the workday's not over yet! Will Jesús be fired?! Or is the jug not really magical after all? This mischievous tale of a very young comedian's life lesson will warm hearts and have class clowns, practical jokers, and all high-spirited kids nodding in sympathy.
“A debut picture book that's been showered with awards for good reason.” School Library Journal
Where to buy
Honors and recognition
- 2024 Pura Belpré Honor Award · American Library Association (Author + Illustrator)
- ALSC Notable Children's Book Title
- NCTE Charlotte Huck Recommendation
- 2024 Charlotte Zolotow Highly Commended Title
- New York Public Library · Best Book for Kids
- Chicago Public Library · Best Book for Children
- Kirkus · Best Picture Book of 2023
- Kirkus · Best Picture Book of 2023 About Families
Mamá's Magnificent Dancing Plantitas
Las Magníficas Plantitas Bailadoras de Mamá.
In this highly anticipated companion to Pura Belpré Honor winner Papá's Magical Water-Jug Clock, little Jesús gets a new and very important job: caring for Mamá's beloved houseplants. From sharing his best jokes with the grumpy Cactus to dancing with the beautiful Peace Lily, it's going great—until the Golden Pothos, Mamá's favorite, crashes to the floor! How will Jesús get out of this one?
When Jesús gets home after school, he has to fill the time until Mamá can take him outside to play. It's tough, until Mamá appoints him Chief Plant Officer—he'll be like a big brother to her precious houseplants! Jesús does an excellent job keeping them watered, entertained, and happy—until an unfortunate accident during a dance party throws Jesús's entire job into crisis mode! Join Jesús and a hilarious cast of houseplants as they navigate the biggest challenge of all.
The high-spirited hero of Papá's Magical Water-Jug Clock is back with another irresistible family misadventure that will warm your heart and make you laugh.
“Amuses with similar madcap humor and shenanigans, focusing on [a] supportive mother-son relationship… the miniature scamp's hijinks and wry observations.” Kirkus Reviews
Where to buy
Honors and recognition
- Best Picture Book of 2024 · BookPlate
- 150 Most Anticipated Books of Fall 2024 · Kirkus Reviews
- 30 Best New Book Releases This Month · Parade
- Children's Book of 2024 · Growing Book By Book