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60 Empowering Books Starring Latina Mighty Girls

A Mighty Girl's top picks of girl-empowering books for celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month!

"The Latina in me is an ember that blazes forever." — Sonia Sotomayor, first United States Supreme Court Justice of Hispanic heritage

Happy Hispanic Heritage Month! Every year, from September 15 to October 15, Americans celebrate the histories, cultures and contributions of American citizens whose ancestors came from Spain, Mexico, the Caribbean and Central and South America. To recognize this special month, we've put together a selection of our favorite books for children and teens starring Latina Mighty Girls!

In the first section of this blog post, we share books about real-life Latina role models throughout history, while in the second part, we feature fictional stories about Latina girls and women. For more reading recommendations for this month, you can also discover many bilingual Spanish/English books for young readers in our blog post, 25 Bilingual Spanish/English Picture Books Starring Mighty Girls. We hope these empowering titles will help all kids learn more about the diverse contributions and rich cultural traditions of Hispanic Mighty Girls!

For more books about diverse Mighty Girl from around the world, visit our extensive Multicultural Fiction Collection.

Books About Real-Life Latina role models

Sonia Sotomayor: A  Judge Grows in the Bronx / La juez que creció en el Bronx

Sonia Sotomayor: A  Judge Grows in the Bronx / La juez que creció en el Bronx

Written by: Jonah Winter
Illustrated by: Edel Rodriguez
Recommended Age: 4 - 8

From a young age, Sonia Sotomayor wanted to be a lawyer... but that was a big dream for a young girl in the Bronx. In this bilingual picture book, kids follow her as her mother's love, a desire to learn, and the willpower and bravery to defy all the naysayers, led Sotomayor to overcome obstacles like poverty, juvenile diabetes, and the death of her father in order to achieve a seat on the Supreme Court of the United States. Vibrant artwork makes Sotomayor's childhood come alive, while a detailed author's note provides plenty of additional information about her life and career.

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Buy:
Amazon.ca
C$17.46 (CAD)
Amazon.co.uk
£14.60 (GBP)
Amazon.com.au
A$34.99 (AUD)
Amazon.com
$10.49 (USD)

Dreamers

Dreamers

Written by: Yuyi Morales
Illustrated by: Yuyi Morales
Recommended Age: 4 - 8

In this gorgeously illustrated picture book, based loosely on the author's experience of moving from Xalapa, Mexico with her American husband and their infant son to San Francisco in 1994, a woman travels with her son to the United States. There, she discovers an oasis of hope: the public library. Book by book, she untangles the language of this strange new land, and learns to make a home within it, observing that at the library: “We learned to read,/ to speak,/ to write,/ and/ to make/ our voices heard.” Five-time Pura Belpré Award winner Yuyi Morales uses poetic language and elegant illustrations to capture both an immigration journey and the importance of libraries as a welcoming home for new members of a community.

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Amazon.ca
C$24.99 (CAD)
Amazon.co.uk
£12.99 (GBP)
Amazon.com.au
A$36.05 (AUD)
Amazon.com
$10.36 (USD)

I Am Sonia Sotomayor

I Am Sonia Sotomayor

Written by: Brad Meltzer
Illustrated by: Christopher Eliopoulos
Recommended Age: 4 - 8

Sonia Sotomayor, the first Latina Supreme Court Justice, is the subject of the sixteenth picture book in the New York Times bestselling Ordinary People Change the World series. As a child, Sonia loved to read — especially Nancy Drew mysteries! When she saw Perry Mason on TV, she knew she wanted to be a lawyer. Many people thought Latina girls didn't grow up to be lawyers, and she faced other obstacles, too, including a diabetes diagnosis at the age of 9. Fortunately, she had people who believed in her — people who taught her to believe in herself. And because of that, she reached the highest court in the nation. A lively, conversational tone and colorful illustrations draw kids into this book, and inspire them to see how they too can change the world.

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Amazon.ca
C$20.01 (CAD)
Amazon.co.uk
£11.03 (GBP)
Amazon.com.au
A$34.02 (AUD)
Amazon.com
$8.99 (USD)

The Storyteller's Candle / La velita de los cuentos

The Storyteller's Candle / La velita de los cuentos

Recommended Age: 5 - 8

Cousins Hildamar and Santiago are having trouble adjusting to their new home in New York City: the winter of 1929 is cold and harsh, not at all like Puerto Rico. Worst of all, Three King's Day is approaching, and Hildamar is worried about how they can have this special holiday in their new country. Fortunately, a storyteller and librarian named Pura Belpré comes to their classroom and teaches them — and their classmates — about the value of celebrating many different holidays in their diverse community. This lovely introduction to the life of groundbreaking librarian Pura Belpre captures the lasting influence of this advocate for New York's Spanish-speaking communities. For another picture book about Belpré's work, check out Pura's Cuentos: How Pura Belpré Reshaped Libraries with Her Stories for ages 5 to 8.

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Amazon.ca
C$18.93 (CAD)
Amazon.co.uk
(Unavailable)
Amazon.com.au
A$31.68 (AUD)
Amazon.com
$11.54 (USD)

Alicia Alonso Dances On

Alicia Alonso Dances On

Written by: Rose Viña
Illustrated by: Gloria Félix
Recommended Age: 5 - 9

Alicia Alonso grew up in Cuba, where she was thrilled to study ballet — even if she could only afford tennis shoes to practice in. The talented young ballerina quickly learned all she could at the dance schools in Cuba, so before long she traveled to New York City to learn more. Her star was on the rise, but then her vision started to fail. Even after multiple surgeries, she couldn't see like most people, and doctors told her she could never dance. But she found solutions, from ensuring dancer partners would be right on their marks to setting up lighting that helped her find spots on the stage. She not only danced again, but she became a prima ballerina, traveling around the world! This inspiring story from the She Made History series is perfect for anyone who has wondered if an obstacle would end their dreams.

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C$23.99 (CAD)
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£9.09 (GBP)
Amazon.com.au
A$42.35 (AUD)
Amazon.com
$15.50 (USD)

Turning Pages: My Life Story

Turning Pages: My Life Story

Written by: Sonia Sotomayor
Illustrated by: Lulu Delacre
Recommended Age: 5 - 9

As a child, Sonia Sotomayor devoured books. For her, they were everything: a connection with her family in Puerto Rico, a guide when she was diagnosed with diabetes, and a consolation and escape from grief when her father died. Most importantly, they were the source of a dream: a future in which she could do anything. In her own words, Sotomayor tells young readers her life story, while also conveying a powerful message about the value of literacy and the never-ending possibility when you turn pages in books and in life. Sotomayor has also written a picture book about accepting disabilities and differences based on her childhood, Just Ask! Be Different, Be Brave, Be You.

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C$23.99 (CAD)
Amazon.co.uk
£14.24 (GBP)
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A$36.99 (AUD)
Amazon.com
$9.96 (USD)

How to Hear the Universe

Gaby González and the Search for Einstein's Ripples in Space-Time

How to Hear the Universe

Gaby González and the Search for Einstein's Ripples in Space-Time

Written by: Patricia Valdez
Illustrated by: Sara Palacios
Recommended Age: 5 - 9

In 1916, Albert Einstein theorized that there were collisions in space, far out in the universe, which might make sound waves that we could use to understand the beginning of the universe — and the far reaches of it. But there was no way for him to prove it. Decades later, a scientist named Gabriela González, who had immigrated to America from Argentina, decided to take up Einstein's question. With brand new technology and a crack team of physicists, González finally found it: a sound wave, rippling through space-time. 100 years after Einstein had first proposed the idea, it was González who proved he was right. Written by molecular biologist Patricia Valdez, and with exuberant illustrations from award-winning illustrator Sara Palacios, this picture book about two pioneering scientists will fill kids with a sense of wonder about the universe.

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C$23.99 (CAD)
Amazon.co.uk
£12.79 (GBP)
Amazon.com.au
A$27.79 (AUD)
Amazon.com
$11.89 (USD)

A Girl Named Rosita: The Story of Rita Moreno: Actor, Singer, Dancer, Trailblazer!

A Girl Named Rosita: The Story of Rita Moreno: Actor, Singer, Dancer, Trailblazer!

Written by: Anika Aldamuy Denise
Illustrated by: Leo Espinosa
Recommended Age: 5 - 9

When young Rosita and her mother move from Puerto Rico to New York, she faces bullying for everything about her, from the color of her skin to her accent. She perfected her English just so she could talk back to the bullies — and she put the same determination into learning to sing and dance. On stage, she lit up the room, but as she fought for a Hollywood career, she faced stereotyping over and over. And then, one day, a strong, inspiring Puerto Rican role appeared: Anita in West Side Story. Rosita — now known as Rita Morena — soared in the role, and became the first Latinx person ever to win an Oscar. This gorgeous and inspiring picture book about the trailblazing entertainer is a tribute to the power of dreams.

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Amazon.ca
C$21.99 (CAD)
Amazon.co.uk
£15.16 (GBP)
Amazon.com.au
A$39.58 (AUD)
Amazon.com
$19.99 (USD)

The Astronaut With A Song For The Stars: The Story of Dr. Ellen Ochoa

The Astronaut With A Song For The Stars: The Story of Dr. Ellen Ochoa

Written by: Julia Finley Mosca
Illustrated by: Daniel Rieley
Recommended Age: 5 - 9

Ellen Ochoa dreamed of playing her flute professionally — until she discovered engineering in college and was immediately hooked. People doubted whether she could succeed: a girl from an immigrant family wasn't the right sort of person to become a scientist, they thought. She refused to believe them, and not only did she achieve her career in engineering, but she even became a NASA astronaut. And when she flew into outer space, her flute came with her, so she could play a song for the stars! This appealing biography from the Amazing Scientists series is a colorful tribute to this daring scientist and musician.

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C$24.95 (CAD)
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£12.99 (GBP)
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A$29.99 (AUD)
Amazon.com
$17.09 (USD)

Planting Stories: The Life of Librarian and Storyteller Pura Belpré

Planting Stories: The Life of Librarian and Storyteller Pura Belpré

Written by: Anika Aldamuy Denise
Illustrated by: Paola Escobar
Recommended Age: 5 - 9

When Pura Belpré came to America in 1921, she brought with her the cuentos folklóricos of Puerto Rico. When she took a job at the New York Public Library as a bilingual assistant, she transformed library services by sharing diverse stories, championing bilingual literature, and publishing her tales so that she could "be like Johnny Appleseed [and] plant my story seeds across the land." This lush and colorful book celebrates Belpré's life and legacy, and encourages young storytellers to keep sharing their tales with the world. For a Spanish-language edition of this book, check out Sembrando historias: Pura Belpré: bibliotecaria y narradora de cuentos.

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C$23.99 (CAD)
Amazon.co.uk
£14.51 (GBP)
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A$24.48 (AUD)
Amazon.com
$10.99 (USD)

My Name Is Celia: The Life of Celia Cruz / Me llamo Celia: La vida de Celia Cruz

My Name Is Celia: The Life of Celia Cruz / Me llamo Celia: La vida de Celia Cruz

Written by: Monica Brown
Illustrated by: Rafael Lopez
Recommended Age: 5 and up

Celia grew up in Havana, Cuba; she loved to sing and she loved to dance. She built a career, entering every competition she could — even though she was barred from many because of her racial heritage. When Fidel Castro's regime drove her into exile, she moved to Miami and New York City, where she kept singing and dancing... and where she and other musicians like her created a new form of music called salsa. This lyrical bilingual picture book dances through Cruz's story with the same enthusiasm and joy that she displayed on stage.

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C$19.77 (CAD)
Amazon.co.uk
£11.99 (GBP)
Amazon.com.au
A$37.98 (AUD)
Amazon.com
$13.77 (USD)

She Persisted: Sonia Sotomayor

She Persisted: Sonia Sotomayor

Recommended Age: 6 - 9

Before Sonia Sotomayor became the first Latina Supreme Court Justice in American history, she was a girl who loved to read Nancy Drew mysteries and watch Perry Mason on TV. She dreamed of becoming a lawyer — but a diabetes diagnosis at the age of seven, in a time before the disease was more easily controlled, threatened that dream. Still, she persisted, and not only became a lawyer, but proudly took a seat at the Supreme Court bench! Today, she is dedicated to the law, and to teaching children everywhere to work hard and believe in their capabilities. This book from the bestselling She Persisted chapter book series, written by award-winning author Meg Medina and featuring black and white illustrations by Gillian Flint, is a compelling introduction to Sotomayor's life and work. For another book about Sotomayor for emerging readers, check out When I Grow Up: Sonia Sotomayor for ages 6 to 8.

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Amazon.ca
C$14.43 (CAD)
Amazon.co.uk
£31.20 (GBP)
Amazon.com.au
A$66.24 (AUD)
Amazon.com
$12.00 (USD)

Dolores Huerta: A Hero to Migrant Workers

Dolores Huerta: A Hero to Migrant Workers

Written by: Sarah E. Warren
Illustrated by: Robert Casilla
Recommended Age: 6 - 9

Dolores Huerta was a dedicated teacher who found that too many of  her students were going without food or shoes. When she investigated, she discovered that their parents were migrant workers, picking grapes for unlivable wages — but when she confronted their bosses about their employees' poverty, they ignored her. So Dolores encouraged the workers to strike, and rallied customers to boycott grapes, to force employers to treat their workers fairly. This inspiring picture book biography captures the determination and courage of this remarkable activist and role model. For another excellent picture book about Huerta, check out Side By Side / Lado a lado: The Story of Dolores Huerta and Cesar Chavez / La historia de Dolores Huerta y Cesar Chavez for ages 4 to 8.

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Amazon.ca
C$16.43 (CAD)
Amazon.co.uk
£10.64 (GBP)
Amazon.com.au
A$43.61 (AUD)
Amazon.com
$7.99 (USD)

Dancing Hands: How Teresa Carreño Played the Piano for President Lincoln

Dancing Hands: How Teresa Carreño Played the Piano for President Lincoln

Written by: Margarita Engle
Illustrated by: Rafael López
Recommended Age: 6 - 9

Young Teresa Carreño loved music, and the piano provided her comfort when she needed it — even when a revolution in her home of Venezuela forced her family to flee to America. She continued to play, and soon the Piano Girl became famous far and wide, bringing music and joy to people in the midst of the Civil War. Eventually, stories about the 10-year-old prodigy reached the White House, and one day, the young refugee played beautiful tunes for Abraham Lincoln and his family. Poetic language and colorful illustrations tell Carreño's story, celebrating the solace that music brings in difficult times.

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Amazon.ca
C$19.80 (CAD)
Amazon.co.uk
£14.70 (GBP)
Amazon.com.au
A$35.38 (AUD)
Amazon.com
$10.56 (USD)

Separate Is Never Equal: Sylvia Mendez and Her Family's Fight for Desegregation

Separate Is Never Equal: Sylvia Mendez and Her Family's Fight for Desegregation

Written by: Duncan Tonatiuh
Illustrated by: Duncan Tonatiuh
Recommended Age: 6 - 9

Almost 10 years before the historic civil rights decision Brown vs. Board of Education, Sylvia Mendez and her parents helped end school segregation in California. In the 1940s, Sylvia Mendez, an American citizen of Mexican and Puerto Rican background — who spoke and wrote perfect English — was denied enrollment in an all-white Orange County grade school. Her parents took action by organizing the Hispanic community and filing a lawsuit in federal district court. Their success eventually brought an end to the era of segregated education in California.

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C$24.99 (CAD)
Amazon.co.uk
£11.77 (GBP)
Amazon.com.au
A$23.09 (AUD)
Amazon.com
$11.58 (USD)

Jovita Wore Pants: The Story of a Mexican Freedom Fighter

Jovita Wore Pants: The Story of a Mexican Freedom Fighter

Written by: Aida Salazar
Illustrated by: Molly Mendoza
Recommended Age: 6 - 9

Growing up in Mexico, Jovita envied her brothers Ramón and Luciano: they got to wear pants! Abuela made Jovita wear big skirts, but they always tangled around her legs and kept her from moving freely. She could climb the tallest mesquite tree or ride her horse Morongo in a skirt — but it would be so much easier in pants. Then, when the Cristeros War for the right to practice religion freely broke out, Jovita's fathers and brothers joined in, and she watched, learning the terrain of the battles and the strategies her father used. When tragedy struck, she was ready: Jovita cut her hair, put on men's clothes, and led a battalion to victory. Award-winning author Aida Salazar tells the true story of her great aunt Jovita Valdovinos, a Mexican revolutionary who refused to stand by just because she was a girl.

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C$20.50 (CAD)
Amazon.co.uk
£18.38 (GBP)
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A$48.96 (AUD)
Amazon.com
$25.46 (USD)

That's Not Fair: Emma Tenayuca's Struggle for Justice / No es justo!: La lucha de Emma Tenayuca por la justicia

That's Not Fair: Emma Tenayuca's Struggle for Justice / No es justo!: La lucha de Emma Tenayuca por la justicia

Illustrated by: Terry Ybanez
Recommended Age: 6 - 9

Emma Tenayuca grew up in a comfortable life in 1920s San Antonio. But she saw first-hand that others were not so fortunate and the degree of poverty experienced by those working for slave wages at the local pecan-shelling factories. As she grew up, she remained deeply aware of the injustice others suffered, and as a teenager, she spoke movingly on their behalf. When she was 21, the pecan shellers wages were cut even further — from six cents an hour to only three cents an hour — and she decided she had to do more: Tenayuca ended up leading a successful strike by 12,000 pecan shellers. This compelling English and Spanish telling of Tenayuca's story will encourage kids to speak up when they see injustice in their own community.

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Amazon.ca
C$19.75 (CAD)
Amazon.co.uk
£19.24 (GBP)
Amazon.com.au
A$49.85 (AUD)
Amazon.com
$17.30 (USD)

Latinitas: Celebrating 40 Big Dreamers

Latinitas: Celebrating 40 Big Dreamers

Written by: Juliet Menéndez
Illustrated by: Juliet Menéndez
Recommended Age: 6 - 10

Before these pioneering Latinas inspired people around the world, they were kids just like those who read this book — and childhood moments set them on the path to becoming the role models they are today! In this gorgeous book, Juliet Menéndez provides capsule biographies of 40 women from the U.S. and Latin America: artists, engineers, activists, entertainers, and many more. She shows how their young lives shaped their careers, and how their work has changed the world. Featuring figures ranging from Supreme Court Justice Sonia Sotomayor to singer Selena Quintanilla to NASA’s first virtual reality engineer, Evelyn Miralles, and accented by Menéndez's hand-painted illustrations, this compelling book is a celebration of Latina heroes!

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Amazon.ca
C$17.65 (CAD)
Amazon.co.uk
£14.16 (GBP)
Amazon.com.au
A$30.46 (AUD)
Amazon.com
$11.89 (USD)

Sonia Sotomayor: I'll Be The Judge of That!

Sonia Sotomayor: I'll Be The Judge of That!

Written by: Kathleen Krull
Illustrated by: Angela Dominguez
Recommended Age: 7 - 10

Sometimes, rules are meant for breaking! Sonia Sotomayor grew up in a world where girls were supposed to dream of being housewives and where poor Hispanic girls in particular should aspire to menial jobs. Instead, she dreamed of a legal career, and after graduating at the top of her class in both high school and university, she eventually became the first Latina justice and third woman justice to serve on the U.S. Supreme Court. This book from the Women Who Broke The Rules series is perfect for newly independent readers to learn more about Sotomayor's story.

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C$23.29 (CAD)
Amazon.co.uk
£6.99 (GBP)
Amazon.com.au
A$11.99 (AUD)
Amazon.com
$7.99 (USD)

Selena, Queen of Tejano Music

Selena, Queen of Tejano Music

Written by: Silvia López
Illustrated by: Paola Escobar
Recommended Age: 7 - 10

As a child, Selena imitated her music-loving family and sang using a hairbrush as a "microphone." When she was nine, she started singing in the family band. She was determined to be a star — but people told her that she couldn't succeed in male-dominated Tejano music. She ignored them, learned to speak (and sing) in Spanish, and created fun dance steps to accompany the music her older brother wrote. And before long, her band, Selena Y Los Dinos, were playing everywhere! This vibrant, heavily detailed picture book is a fitting tribute to this iconic musician, and celebrates her lingering cultural and musical influence. For two more books about Selena, we recommend the picture book Sing with Me: The Story of Selena Quintanilla for ages 5 to 9 and the illustrated biography Who Was Selena? for ages 8 to 12.

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Amazon.ca
C$20.01 (CAD)
Amazon.co.uk
£17.07 (GBP)
Amazon.com.au
A$48.99 (AUD)
Amazon.com
$12.63 (USD)

Who Is Sonia Sotomayor?

Who Is Sonia Sotomayor?

Written by: Megan Stine
Illustrated by: Dede Putra, Nancy Harrison
Recommended Age: 8 - 12

As a child in the Bronx, living with her immigrant parents, Sonia Sotomayor settled on a seemingly improbable dream: she wanted to be a judge. It seemed ridiculous, especially after she was diagnosed with diabetes at the age of 9, at a time when the disease was more difficult to manage than it is today. But the determined girl learned how to give herself insulin injections, studied hard, and achieved her dream when she was appointed as a federal district judge in 1991. But she continued to work and to climb, and in 2009, President Barack Obama made her a Justice for the U.S. Supreme Court — the first Hispanic judge in the court's history. This book from the popular Who Was...? biography series captures Sotomayor's determination and pride in her heritage.

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C$12.32 (CAD)
Amazon.co.uk
(Unavailable)
Amazon.com.au
A$15.99 (AUD)
Amazon.com
$6.09 (USD)

I Got This: To Gold and Beyond

I Got This: To Gold and Beyond

Written by: Laurie Hernandez
Recommended Age: 8 - 12

Laurie Hernandez always wanted to fly, so when she was six years old, she took her first gymnastics class. It quickly became obvious that she was a natural, and in 2016, America thrilled to see her performances in both the team and individual beam competitions at the Rio Olympics. But you don't get to be a 16-year-old Olympic medalist without some bumps along the way! In this poignant and funny memoir, Hernandez talks about Olympic dreams, family sacrifices, intense training, and the fear that she would lose it all when her progress stalled due to multiple injuries. It all paid off, though, when she got to display her artistry — and energy! — for the world in Rio. This fascinating memoir includes never-before-seen photos and beautifully captures Hernandez's enthusiasm and joy in her sport.

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C$10.99 (CAD)
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£8.24 (GBP)
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A$19.99 (AUD)
Amazon.com
$8.99 (USD)

Who Was Celia Cruz?

Who Was Celia Cruz?

Illustrated by: Jake Murray
Recommended Age: 8 - 12

Celia Cruz was a powerhouse performer, with an enormous vocal range, a vibrant stage presence, and a love of flashy costumes that her fans adored. As the lead singer of the Cuban band Sonora Matancera, she led the group all over the world, where she delighted audiences. But when Fidel Castro came to power in Cuba, she was no longer allowed to return home — so she and her fellow Cuban exiles in America kept making music, creating an all-new genre, salsa. She would become the most popular Latin artist of the 20th century and was hailed as the "Queen of Salsa"! This vivacious biography from the Who Was...? series introduces young readers to a dynamic performer who defied a genre dominated by men to top the charts!

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C$8.54 (CAD)
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£5.73 (GBP)
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A$14.07 (AUD)
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$6.99 (USD)

Sylvia and Aki

Sylvia and Aki

Written by: Winifred Conkling
Recommended Age: 9 - 12

Sylvia Mendez just wanted to attend her local Orange County school, but she was refused enrollment and directed to a Mexican school instead. Aki Munemitsu just wanted to be back in her own home, instead of being shipped to a Japanese internment camp. These two girls both had a story to tell about what it meant to be different in 1940s America, and they had an unexpected connection: the Mendez family rented the vacant Munemitsu farm, and the girls met and became friends after the war. Author Winifred Conkling used interviews with both Sylvia and Aki to write this historical fiction novel about the landmark education desegregation case Mendez v. Westerminster School District.

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C$7.18 (CAD)
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£11.52 (GBP)
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A$16.99 (AUD)
Amazon.com
$6.99 (USD)

Path to the Stars: My Journey from Girl Scout to Rocket Scientist

Path to the Stars: My Journey from Girl Scout to Rocket Scientist

Written by: Sylvia Acevedo
Recommended Age: 9 - 12

As a child in a Mexican-American community, everyone expected that Sylvia Acevedo would grow up to marry and stay at home with her children — but Sylvia yearned for adventure. Then she joined the Brownies and her life was transformed. Through the Girl Scouts, she found peers who shared her love of science and role models that fostered her confidence and independence. Acevedo would become a rocket scientist for NASA — and today, she's the CEO of the Girl Scouts, helping other girls follow their dreams. This inspiring memoir is a celebration of resilience and a testament to the transformative impact of the Girl Scouts on many girls' lives.

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C$12.50 (CAD)
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£10.99 (GBP)
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A$19.99 (AUD)
Amazon.com
$9.99 (USD)

Dolores Huerta Stands Strong: The Woman Who Demanded Justice

Dolores Huerta Stands Strong: The Woman Who Demanded Justice

Written by: Marlene Targ Brill
Recommended Age: 10 - 13

Before Dolores Huerta was one of America's most important activists, she was a child in the farming town of Stockton, California; a teen who experienced discrimination by teachers who didn't think a Chicana was capable of academic success; and a teacher who knew she needed to do something to help the children of farm workers, who came to school hungry and barefoot. In this nuanced and powerful biography, young readers will learn important concepts like unionization and collective bargaining, as well as details about how Huerta became an activist and organizer in her 20s. This award-winning title is a compelling introduction to Huerta's life and work that will inspire young readers to imagine themselves fighting for justice too.

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Amazon.ca
C$31.28 (CAD)
Amazon.co.uk
£16.33 (GBP)
Amazon.com.au
A$39.96 (AUD)
Amazon.com
$15.95 (USD)

The Distance Between Us: Young Readers Edition

The Distance Between Us: Young Readers Edition

Written by: Reyna Grande
Recommended Age: 10 - 14

Reyna's parents have made the dangerous and illegal trip across the US-Mexican border in hopes of a better life for the whole family. Meanwhile, she and her siblings are forced to live with their strict grandmother — until plans have to change and Reyna has to make the journey, alone, with a long-absent father she barely knows on the other side. Then, she struggles with identity and a desperate desire to succeed, as well as dealing with poverty, domestic violence, and life as an undocumented immigrant. Based on Grande's adult memoir of the same name, this story is gently funny and deeply touching, and captures a little-discussed element of immigration: the challenges facing children left behind.

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Amazon.ca
C$10.70 (CAD)
Amazon.co.uk
£8.33 (GBP)
Amazon.com.au
A$26.15 (AUD)
Amazon.com
$8.79 (USD)

The Beloved World of Sonia Sotomayor

The Beloved World of Sonia Sotomayor

Written by: Sonia Sotomayor
Recommended Age: 10 and up

Before she was a lawyer, a judge, and the first Hispanic person appointment to the U.S. Supreme Court, Sonia Sotomayor was a girl in a Bronx housing project, struggling with juvenile diabetes, poverty, and family troubles. But when she found a big dream to pursue, nothing would stand in her way! In this middle-grade adaptation of her bestselling adult memoir, My Beloved World, Sotomayor tells her story in a relatable, appealing way, encouraging young readers to "dream big dreams" — and fight for what they know is right.

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C$14.99 (CAD)
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£9.20 (GBP)
Amazon.com.au
A$28.70 (AUD)
Amazon.com
$9.29 (USD)

Enchanted Air: Two Cultures, Two Wings

Enchanted Air: Two Cultures, Two Wings

Written by: Margarita Engle
Illustrated by: Edel Rodriguez
Recommended Age: 13 and up

Margarita feels caught between two cultures and two countries: her mother's homeland, Cuba, which she visits every summer, and the bustling, busy world of Los Angeles, where words and images provide better companionship than her classmates. Slowly, though, she comes to love her own country as much as her old one, if in a different way. As tensions rise in the late 1950s and early 1960s, being caught between these two homes is not easy, and when the Cuban Missile Crisis breaks out, Margarita is afraid for her Cuban family and confused by how two places she loves can hate one another so much. This evocative and heartfelt memoir in verse depicts how Engle's sense of conflicting allegiances shaped her childhood — and her award-winning writing career.

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C$15.99 (CAD)
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£9.65 (GBP)
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A$22.81 (AUD)
Amazon.com
$8.29 (USD)

In The Country We Love: My Family Divided

In The Country We Love: My Family Divided

Written by: Diane Guerrero
Recommended Age: 15 and up

Today, Diane Guerrero is the star of hit shows like Orange is the New Black and Jane the Virgin, but before she got there, she was a fourteen year old girl who came home from school to discover that her parents had been deported while she was in class. Since she had been born in the US, Guerrero could stay — but to continue her education, she had to depend on the kindness of friends to take her in and help her build a life for herself. In this gripping and ultimately triumphant memoir, Guerrero offers a personal take on the struggles of the millions of undocumented immigrants and their citizen children — and casts a much-needed light on the fears that haunt the daily existence of families like hers. Guerrero has also adapted her story for middle-grade readers in My Family Divided: One Girl's Journey of Home, Loss, and Hope.

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C$19.91 (CAD)
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£17.07 (GBP)
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A$31.38 (AUD)
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$10.69 (USD)

Fictional Stories About Hispanic Mighty Girls

Kitchen Dance

Kitchen Dance

Written by: Maurie J. Manning
Recommended Age: 3 - 6

When this little girl wakes up at night, she hears enticing noises from downstairs. Soon, she and her brother are sneaking downstairs, only to spot their mother and father singing and dancing as they clean up the kitchen: "¡Como te quiero! Oh, how I love you!" When the parents spot their children, they quickly sweep both kids up into a joyous, loving dance... one that slowly changes into a lullaby that rocks both children to sleep. This exuberant celebration of a loving family is also a terrific bedtime book.

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C$21.99 (CAD)
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£14.10 (GBP)
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A$45.18 (AUD)
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$13.79 (USD)

Abuela

Abuela

Written by: Arthur Dorros
Recommended Age: 3 - 7

Rosalba and her Abuela are always going to new places together, but one day, after feeding the birds at the park, Rosalba sits on the bus and dreams about what it would be like if she could fly. Soon, she’s soaring through the sky with Abuela floating beside her, observing the streets and buses, docks and buildings, and even her father’s office, all from high above. Each sight represents an important moment in Abuela's life,  as she tells Rosalba the story of finding her home... the country where Rosalba is growing up. With its colorful illustrations and mix of Spanish and English, this book is a tribute to the love between a grandmother and granddaughter, a celebration of a diverse community, and a poignant immigrant tale of finding a new home.

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C$9.58 (CAD)
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£7.69 (GBP)
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A$19.54 (AUD)
Amazon.com
$7.19 (USD)

A Chair For My Mother

A Chair For My Mother

Written by: Vera B. Williams
Illustrated by: Vera B. Williams
Recommended Age: 3 - 8

When a fire destroys all of their possessions, Rosa, her mother, and grandmother are able to scrape together most of what they need — but what they're missing is a chair, a big comfortable chair for cuddles, reading stories, and to let her mother rest her feet after a long, hard day. Together, they start saving coins in a jar — Mama's tips, Grandma's grocery savings, even Rosa's coins she earns doing odd jobs — so that they can buy the perfect chair of their dreams. This charming, sweet story, a Caldecott Honor winner, is full of warmth and love.

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C$10.99 (CAD)
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£7.65 (GBP)
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A$15.95 (AUD)
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$7.19 (USD)

Margaret and Margarita / Margarita y Margaret

Margaret and Margarita / Margarita y Margaret

Written by: Lynn Reiser
Illustrated by: Lynn Reiser
Recommended Age: 3 - 8

Margaret speaks only English, and Margarita speaks only Spanish. When their mothers take them each to the park, both complain (in their respective languages) that there’s nobody to play with — until each spots the other. Their mothers assume that their lack of a common language will be a barrier, but as far as the girls are concerned, that just means they have to get a little more creative! By the time playtime is over, each girl knows a few words in the other’s language and their mothers are smiling at the realization that friendship can go beyond words. This clever bilingual picture book celebrates multilingual friendships.

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C$15.17 (CAD)
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£32.38 (GBP)
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A$46.13 (AUD)
Amazon.com
$14.02 (USD)

Growing Up With Tamales / Los tamales de Ana

Growing Up With Tamales / Los tamales de Ana

Written by: Gwendolyn Zepeda
Recommended Age: 3 - 8

Every year, Ana's family makes tamales for Christmas... and every year, it seems like her older sister, Lidia, is so far ahead of her that she'll never catch up. When Ana is six, she can mix the dough, but Lidia is old enough to spread it in the corn husks; and as the years go on, every time Ana is allowed to try a new step, Lidia is already learning the next one. Finally, though, when Ana is eighteen, she's old enough to do it all — and old enough to be planning her own business, which will deliver her tamales to people around the world. And maybe she'll even let Lidia work for her!

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C$28.14 (CAD)
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A$37.78 (AUD)
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$13.96 (USD)

What Can You Do With A Rebozo?

What Can You Do With A Rebozo?

Written by: Carmen Tafolla
Illustrated by: Amy Cordova
Recommended Age: 3 - 8

This little girl's family has a rebozo, a traditional woven Mexican shawl. What can you do with a rebozo? Well, Mama can wrap it around herself to make her dress a little fancier, or fold it up and use it to carry her little brother. They keep you warm when you cuddle up with your grandmother, or keep your eyes covered when it's time for a birthday piñata. They can be capes and tunnels and most importantly, the perfect accessory for a swirling dance! This celebration of culture and imagination is sure to delight young readers. There is also a bilingual version of this lively picture book.

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C$12.49 (CAD)
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£6.47 (GBP)
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A$17.99 (AUD)
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$7.99 (USD)

Isabel and her Colores Go to School

Isabel and her Colores Go to School

Written by: Alexandra Alessandri
Illustrated by: Courtney Dawson
Recommended Age: 4 - 7

Isabel is starting at a new school — and she does NOT want to go! She knows she'll have to learn English, which sounds like "stormy blues and blizzard whites" to her; she likes the "pinks and yellows and purples of español" better. As expected, her first day is rough; she misspeaks words, makes some blunders, and even misunderstands an offer of friendship from a classmate! But when coloring time begins, Isabel realizes she can talk to Sarah without saying a word... and that there is a place for her, in both English and Spanish, at her new school. Poetic text — including Spanish words sprinkled throughout and a full Spanish translation of every page — and vibrant illustrations celebrate bilingualism and how friendship can cross almost any border.

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C$21.99 (CAD)
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£17.14 (GBP)
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A$34.77 (AUD)
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$12.99 (USD)

Lucía the Luchadora

Lucía the Luchadora

Written by: Cynthia Leonor Garza
Illustrated by: Alyssa Bermudez
Recommended Age: 4 - 7

When the boys at the school playground tell her that "girls can't be superheroes," Lucí­a suddenly doesn't feel so mighty in her long red cape. Then her grandmother lets her in on a family secret: Lucía comes from a long line of luchadoras, bold and valiant women from the Mexican lucha libre wrestling tradition! Lucía returns to the playground with a bold new identity that has the whole class buzzing. But when she witnesses an injustice in action, Lucía faces a moral quandary: does she break the sacred rule not to reveal the identity behind her mask, or does she do whatever it takes to support someone in need? Full of energy, this fun book gently tackles sexism, bullying, and the importance of standing up for people around you.

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C$16.99 (CAD)
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£16.99 (GBP)
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A$20.79 (AUD)
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$14.05 (USD)

A Song of Frutas

A Song of Frutas

Written by: Margarita Engle
Illustrated by: Sara Palacios
Recommended Age: 4 - 8

When this little girl visits her grandfather in Cuba, she joins him in his work as a pregonero — a singing street vendor who sells all kinds of fruits! She loves singing his special songs about fruits like mango, limón, naranja, and piña. She especially loves visiting "on the eve of el año nuevo" when people buy 12 grapes and make wishes for each month of the upcoming year. Right now, she's far away, and she and her grandfather stay in touch by sending each other letters... but if she could make one of those new year wishes, it would be for America and Cuba to be friendly enough that she and her abuelo could visit whenever they wanted. This vibrant picture book by Pura Belpré Award–winning author Margarita Engle is a loving tribute to a grandfather-granddaughter relationship — even at a distance.

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C$23.99 (CAD)
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£13.53 (GBP)
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A$23.15 (AUD)
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$12.49 (USD)

Alma and How She Got Her Name

Alma and How She Got Her Name

Written by: Juana Martinez-Neal
Illustrated by: Juana Martinez-Neal
Recommended Age: 4 - 8

Alma's full name is far too long for someone so small: Alma Sofia Esperanza José Pura Candela "never fits"! So she asks her father: how did she get her name? It turns out that every part of her very long name is part of a story: Sofia, the grandmother who loved books and flowers; Esperanza, the great-grandmother who longed to travel; José, the grandfather who was an artist; and more. The only name she doesn't hear is Alma — because, her father says, "You will make your own story." This gentle, sweet story celebrates sharing family history and is sure to have kids asking about their own.

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C$20.30 (CAD)
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£24.00 (GBP)
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A$19.25 (AUD)
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$8.99 (USD)

Dreams of Green: A Three Kings' Day Story
New!

Dreams of Green: A Three Kings' Day Story
New!

Written by: Mariel Jungkunz
Illustrated by: Mónica Paola Rodriguez
Recommended Age: 4 - 8

Lucía and her family have moved to Ohio from Puerto Rico, and her new home is very different — quiet, grey, and blanketed by snow. So when Día de los Reyes, or Three Kings’ Day, approaches, Lucía misses her old home more than ever. In Puerto Rico, she'd dance and sing in the streets of her neighborhood, and collect fresh greens to leave for the Three Kings' camels. Will camels even eat arugula from the grocery store? Fortunately, when morning comes, her parents show her that Día de los Reyes, and her island heritage, can be wherever she is! This reassuring picture book is a celebration of Puerto Rican culture and of finding a way to blend old and new traditions.

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C$24.99 (CAD)
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£14.69 (GBP)
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A$42.79 (AUD)
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$17.23 (USD)

Mango, Abuela, and Me

Mango, Abuela, and Me

Written by: Meg Medina
Illustrated by: Angela Dominguez
Recommended Age: 4 - 8

Mia's abuela is moving in, leaving her sunny home surrounded by parrots and palm trees, and Mia is a mix of excited and uncertain... especially once she discovers that Abuela can't speak or read much English. Even though grandmother and granddaughter work to teach Abuela English — and Mia Spanish — they still don't have enough words in common to share stories, hopes, and dreams. Then Mia sees a beautiful parrot in the pet-shop window. Maybe a new friend can help her and Abuela communicate a little better. This charming story combines Spanish and English text beautifully, and kids will love the vibrant, colorful illustrations.

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C$23.50 (CAD)
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£28.00 (GBP)
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A$24.99 (AUD)
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$15.47 (USD)

Carmela Full of Wishes

Carmela Full of Wishes

Written by: Matt de la Peña
Illustrated by: Christian Robinson
Recommended Age: 4 - 8

Today is Carmela's birthday, and she's finally old enough to join her big brother as he does errands — a treat for her, but a nuisance for her brother. On their way, Carmela finds a dandelion, but she has to decide on a perfect wish: should she wish for a candy machine? For her mother to sleep in one of the beautiful beds she makes at the hotel? For her father's papers to be sorted out so he can finally come home? When the dandelion gets crushed before she picks a wish, Carmela is heartbroken... but her brother shows her a place where wishes do come true. This poignant picture book from the award-winning team behind Last Stop on Market Street explores loss, family, and the power of dreams.

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C$24.93 (CAD)
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£11.75 (GBP)
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A$33.36 (AUD)
Amazon.com
$12.68 (USD)

Where Are You From?

Where Are You From?

Written by: Yamile Saied Méndez
Illustrated by: Jaime Kim
Recommended Age: 4 - 8

When this little girl gets asked — over and over — where she is really from, she feels insecure about what her answer should be. For help, she turns to her loving Argentinian abuelo. His answer captures images of a beautiful land she's never seen, of a family's pride in a vibrant culture, but most importantly, of the love between people: "You’re from here, from my love and the love of all those before us.... You are from all of us." This lyrical picture book that celebrates identity and individuality also provides a beautiful conversation starter for either home or classroom.

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C$24.99 (CAD)
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£12.49 (GBP)
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A$29.99 (AUD)
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$10.79 (USD)

The Quiet Place

The Quiet Place

Written by: Sarah Stewart
Illustrated by: David Small
Recommended Age: 4 - 8

Isabel misses many things about her old home in Mexico, including her Aunt Lupita and the comfort of hearing Spanish spoken all around her. At the same time, there are wonderful new experiences in her American home, including a teacher with a wide, friendly smile and her very first snow storm! To help her adjust to all the changes, Papa and her brother Chavo use a big box to make Isabel a "quiet place," where she can keep her books and toys and write letters to her aunt. In fact, the place Isabel feels most at home might just be in her quiet place. Set in the 1950s, this contemplative book captures the slow process of adjusting to a new country and fitting in with new friends.

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C$15.72 (CAD)
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£22.03 (GBP)
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A$41.79 (AUD)
Amazon.com
$19.99 (USD)

My Dog Just Speaks Spanish

My Dog Just Speaks Spanish

Written by: Andrea Cáceres
Illustrated by: Andrea Cáceres
Recommended Age: 4 - 8

Aurora and her family are settling into their new home in America, and that means learning to speak English. Their home is full of notes reminding them: lamp (lámpara), raincoat (poncho), shoes (zapatos). Aurora's learning fast, but their dog, Nena, still only knows commands in Spanish. She can siéntate (sit) and espera (wait)... and she definitely knows postre (treat!) At the dog park, Aurora explains that Nena doesn't understand English, but fortunately the welcoming community is more than willing to help. After all, no matter what language she knows, Nena is a ¡buena chica! Venezuelan-American author-illustrator Andrea Cáceres draws from her own experience to create a sweet story about immigration, language learning, and the special love between a girl and a dog.

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C$23.99 (CAD)
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£17.16 (GBP)
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A$8.15 (AUD)
Amazon.com
$13.80 (USD)

Doña Flor: A Tall Tale About A Giant Woman with a Great Big Heart

Doña Flor: A Tall Tale About A Giant Woman with a Great Big Heart

Written by: Pat Mora
Illustrated by: Raul Colon
Recommended Age: 4 - 8

In a tiny village in the American Southwest, Doña Flor is a beloved neighbor: the giant woman lets children use her flowers as trumpets and her leftover tortillas as rafts! She also loves to read, and often gathers the children around for a story. When a terrible noise like a bellowing animal scares the villagers, Doña Flor is determined to protect her friends — so with the help of her animal companions, she sets off to solve the mystery of the terrifying sound. This original tall tale, full of beautiful watercolor illustrations, ends with a surprise that will get kids giggling!

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C$22.03 (CAD)
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£10.64 (GBP)
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A$29.95 (AUD)
Amazon.com
$16.99 (USD)

I Pledge Allegiance

I Pledge Allegiance

Illustrated by: Patrice Barton
Recommended Age: 4 - 8

Libby's Great Aunt Lobo has lived in America for years, but now she's taking a big step and becoming a citizen! She has passed her citizenship test; now all that remains is the ceremony, where she'll say the Pledge of Allegiance. Libby's class has also been practicing the Pledge — and the same day that Lobo swears her oath, Libby will be leading the Pledge at school. Together, Libby and Lobo practice, talking about the historical and personal meaning of each line, until each of them gets to say it with hand on heart. This sweet story will give kids new perspective on what it means to say the pledge, as well as celebrating this special relationship between a niece and aunt.

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C$91.35 (CAD)
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(Unavailable)
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A$38.29 (AUD)
Amazon.com
$8.99 (USD)

Tía Fortuna's New Home: A Jewish Cuban Journey

Tía Fortuna's New Home: A Jewish Cuban Journey

Written by: Ruth Behar
Illustrated by: Devon Holzwarth
Recommended Age: 4 - 8

Estrella's Tía Fortuna has to leave her Miami apartment building to move into an assisted living community, and Estrella doesn't know how to feel — how can Tía leave her longtime home for someplace new? But as Estrella helps her pack, Tía introduces her to her most important possessions, which speak to her Cuban and Jewish culture and her experience as a Sephardic Jewish refugee fleeing Havana: old photographs, the mezuzah on her doorway, the key to a home she had to leave behind. And as the pair enjoy homemade borekas filled with "potatoes and cheese and... esperanza," Estrella realizes that Tía's home will always be where her family is — and there is plenty of joy and love still to come. This lyrical look at a little-known Jewish subculture is a poignant tribute to family, culture, and love.

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C$18.46 (CAD)
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£15.99 (GBP)
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A$42.43 (AUD)
Amazon.com
$9.26 (USD)

A Gift From Abuela

A Gift From Abuela

Written by: Cecilia Ruiz
Illustrated by: Cecilia Ruiz
Recommended Age: 4 - 8

Abuela adores Niña, and delights in spending time with her, especially when they make papel picado (paper-cutout banners) together or sit in the park eating pan dulce. She wants to give Niña an extra special treat, so she starts saving what money she can put together, a few pesos at a time. But as Niña gets older, it's harder for them to spend time together, and when a newly issued currency makes Abuela's savings worthless, she thinks her dream has been dashed. Fortunately, a surprise visit from Niña shows that, even when life gets in the way, the love between a grandmother and granddaughter is the sweetest gift of all.

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C$16.17 (CAD)
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£29.52 (GBP)
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A$24.99 (AUD)
Amazon.com
$14.62 (USD)

Sofia Valdez, Future Prez

Sofia Valdez, Future Prez

Written by: Andrea Beaty
Illustrated by: David Roberts
Recommended Age: 4 - 9

Sofia loves walking to school with her Abuelo, but when Abuelo hurts his ankle at the local landfill, Sofia has to walk alone. She spends the walk thinking about what she could do about the dangerous trash heap, and she concludes that it's time for the town to turn it into a park. When she arrives at City Hall, plans in hand, the clerk turns her away — a kid can't build a park, after all. Sofia thinks otherwise, and before long, she discovers the power of community organizing... and perhaps a future career in politics! This empowering book by the creators of Rosie Revere, Engineer and Ada Twist, Scientist stars a determined girl who knows that the key to making dreams reality can be political action.

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C$23.99 (CAD)
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£11.89 (GBP)
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A$20.79 (AUD)
Amazon.com
$11.95 (USD)

Sofia Martinez: My Family Adventure

Sofia Martinez: My Family Adventure

Written by: Jacqueline Jules
Illustrated by: Kim Smith
Recommended Age: 5 - 7

7-year-old Sofia Martinez is used to fighting for attention in her big family — but fortunately, she always knows they will be there when she really needs them. In this story, she worries about creating a look for class picture day that ensures no one can mistake her for her sisters; attempts to make a piñata for her grandmother's birthday; and has to chase down a runaway class pet! Her outgoing personality and confidence often result in one part success, one part trouble — but no matter what, Sofia's fiery passion for everything she does makes every day an adventure. This first book in a series includes common Spanish words and phrases. For more of Sofia's escapades, check out the second book, The Marigold Mess.

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C$11.99 (CAD)
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(Unavailable)
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A$14.99 (AUD)
Amazon.com
$4.95 (USD)

Maya's Blanket / La Manta de Maya

Maya's Blanket / La Manta de Maya

Written by: Monica Brown
Illustrated by: David Diaz
Recommended Age: 5 - 8

When Maya was very, very little, Grandma stitched her a blanket with her own two hands. But as Maya grows, the blanket gets frayed. Fortunately, Grandma is able to rework it each time: into a shirt, a shawl, a scarf, a hair ribbon, and finally, a bookmark. But what will Maya do when she loses her bookmark and the last precious scrap of her blanket is gone? Well... why not write a book about her special blanket — one that preserves its memory and shares it with lots of other little boys and girls — including Maya's own daughter! Inspired by the traditional Yiddish folk song Hob Ikh Mir a Mantl (I Had a Little Coat), this sweet story recognizes the power of creativity and family love.

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C$61.14 (CAD)
Amazon.co.uk
£29.98 (GBP)
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A$43.50 (AUD)
Amazon.com
$17.70 (USD)

I Love Saturdays y domingos

I Love Saturdays y domingos

Written by: Alma Flor Ada
Illustrated by: Elivia Savadier
Recommended Age: 5 - 8

Weekends are a very special time for this little girl! On Saturdays, she visits Grandma and Grandpa, her European-American family, and on Sundays — los domingos — she visits Abuelito y Abuelita, her Mexican-American grandparents. Each pair of grandparents has their special rituals and treats, and they are different in many ways, but they are the same in one very important respect: they adore their granddaughter and the rest of her loving family. Instead of presenting a family with dual cultures as competing, this family complements and celebrates one another, creating a unique and special atmosphere.

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C$9.99 (CAD)
Amazon.co.uk
£6.59 (GBP)
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A$22.37 (AUD)
Amazon.com
$6.49 (USD)

Mamá The Alien / Mamá la Extraterrestre

Mamá The Alien / Mamá la Extraterrestre

Written by: Rene Colato Lainez
Illustrated by: Laura Lacamara
Recommended Age: 5 - 8

When Mamá's purse spills one day, Sofia sees a card that describes her mother as a Resident Alien. An alien?! But Mamá looks like a human mother! Sofia is still trying to figure out this mystery when she stumbles upon her mother one night looking like an actual alien... but it turn out that Mamá is just doing a beauty treatment, getting ready for a special day: her citizenship ceremony. That's when Sofia learns that, in English, alien can also mean someone born in a different country. How funny to think that her Mamá really is an alien! This lighthearted book celebrates the milestones of immigration and the importance of family — no matter where that family comes from.

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C$19.56 (CAD)
Amazon.co.uk
£22.64 (GBP)
Amazon.com.au
A$40.97 (AUD)
Amazon.com
$17.15 (USD)

Lola Out Loud: Inspired by the Childhood of Activist Dolores Huerta

Lola Out Loud: Inspired by the Childhood of Activist Dolores Huerta

Written by: Jennifer Torres
Illustrated by: Sara Palacios
Recommended Age: 5 - 8

Lola has a big voice: her grandpa jokingly calls her "Lolita Siete Lenguas" — Little Lola, Seven Tongues. She knows that people think she's too loud, and she does her best to be quiet. But when she sees injustice happening in her very own neighborhood, how can she look away? Maybe her big voice is just what is needed to make things better! Inspired by civil rights activist and labor leader Dolores Huerta, this empowering picture book reminds young readers that every hero started out small — and that loud voices are necessary to fight for change!

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C$16.44 (CAD)
Amazon.co.uk
£12.49 (GBP)
Amazon.com.au
A$40.66 (AUD)
Amazon.com
$14.99 (USD)

In My Family / En mi familia

In My Family / En mi familia

Written by: Carmen Lomas Garza
Recommended Age: 5 - 8

Author Carmen Lomas Garza recounts her fondest childhood memories growing up in a Mexican-American family in Texas. She remembers special holidays and family dinners; music and dancing at a local restaurant; and even seemingly simple moments like a visit to her grandmother's house. Each scene is illustrated in vivid color and accompanied by a text description of the event in both English and Spanish. Gentle and welcoming, this book captures the extraordinary and everyday moments that make up the stories of a cherished family.

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C$16.13 (CAD)
Amazon.co.uk
£13.32 (GBP)
Amazon.com.au
A$27.78 (AUD)
Amazon.com
$7.95 (USD)

My Papi Has A Motorcycle

My Papi Has A Motorcycle

Written by: Isabel Quintero
Illustrated by: Zeke Peña
Recommended Age: 5 - 9

Every night, when papi gets home, Daisy Ramona comes running out with their helmets: it's time for a motorcycle ride! Together, they ride through her vibrant immigrant community. The neighborhood is changing — from new construction being built by her papi and his friends, to empty stores they used to love, like the shaved ice shop. But one thing will never change: the love between father and daughter. Isabel Quintero and Zeke Peña create a touching tribute to Mexican-American culture and the memories that stick with us throughout our lives — particularly about people we love.

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C$25.99 (CAD)
Amazon.co.uk
£18.11 (GBP)
Amazon.com.au
A$43.99 (AUD)
Amazon.com
$14.39 (USD)

Finding the Music: En pos de la música

Finding the Music: En pos de la música

Recommended Age: 6 - 9

Reyna loves spending time at her mom's restaurant, the hub for a diverse group of customers from her local community. So when she accidentally breaks her abuelito's vihuela, a small guitar-like instrument that has always hung on the wall, Reyna figures one of them can help her fix it. The first few she asks can't help, but they tell her fascinating stories about her abuelito's music...and when she finally talks to the owner of the music store, he not only promises they can fix the vihuela together, he also gives her something precious: a recording of her abuelito, playing the music that brought a community together. This poignant and heartwarming story about a girl learning her family's story is sure to delight young readers.

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C$31.66 (CAD)
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£14.01 (GBP)
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A$38.79 (AUD)
Amazon.com
$12.94 (USD)

My Diary from Here to There / Mi diario de aquí hasta allá

My Diary from Here to There / Mi diario de aquí hasta allá

Written by: Amada Irma Perez
Illustrated by: Maya Christina Gonzalez
Recommended Age: 6 - 9

Amada hears her parents whispers, debating whether to move to Los Angeles, where there should be better opportunities for the family. She wants to be hopeful, but secretly, she can't stop thinking about how she'll miss the best friend she's leaving behind, her worry that she'll struggle to learn English, and her fear that they'll never return to Mexico. In her diary, she writes about both her travels and her thoughts about the family's journey, until finally, in their new home, Amada realizes that with the love of her family, there's no change she can't weather. Thoughtful and poignant, this English / Spanish telling of one family's immigration is based on author Amada Irma Perez's own experiences.

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C$31.09 (CAD)
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£27.40 (GBP)
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A$30.79 (AUD)
Amazon.com
$9.80 (USD)

Sarai and the Meaning of Awesome

Sarai and the Meaning of Awesome

Recommended Age: 6 - 9

Sarai Gonzalez knows she can take on every challenge... so when she learns that the landlord is selling the house where her grandparents live, she's sure she can figure out a solution. Having just started a cupcake business, the solution seems obvious: earn enough money to buy the house! But making money with her sisters making a mess in the kitchen seems impossible, and Sarai quickly learns that houses cost more than she expected. Fortunately, with a little optimism and some help from her large, loving family, Sarai might just find a solution anyway. This early chapter book series, which is inspired by the life of viral video sensation and social activist Sarai Gonzalez, will inspire big plans and a hopeful attitude in young readers!

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C$7.99 (CAD)
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£4.48 (GBP)
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A$9.68 (AUD)
Amazon.com
$5.66 (USD)

My Name Is Maria Isabel

My Name Is Maria Isabel

Written by: Alma Flor Ada
Illustrated by: K. Dyble Thompson
Recommended Age: 7 - 10

Maria's name is long and important — Maria Isabel Salazar Lopez, from both her grandmothers, her grandfather, and her father. But when she arrives in her new class after moving from Puerto Rico, her teacher declares that there are too many Marias, so she’ll be called Mary. How can Maria explain to her teacher that her special name is a reminder of where she came from? Fortunately, when the class is assigned a paper titled “My Greatest Wish,” Maria finally finds the words to tell everyone how special her name is — and why she will always be Maria Isabel. Spanish-speaking Mighty Girl fans can read the Spanish-language version of the book, Me llamo Maria Isabel.

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C$5.26 (CAD)
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£5.93 (GBP)
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A$17.47 (AUD)
Amazon.com
$5.58 (USD)

Stef Soto, Taco Queen

Stef Soto, Taco Queen

Written by: Jennifer Torres
Recommended Age: 8 - 11

All Stef wants is to fit in, and to have a little bit of independence from her overprotective parents — especially if it means she can ride a school bus instead of getting picked up by Tia Perla, her family's taco truck. She's tired of being called "Taco Queen" and she dreams of being able to attend the Vivian Vega concert like her (former) friend Julia. But when her family's livelihood is threatened, Stef surprises herself by becoming Tia Perla's biggest advocate. In the end, Stef discovers her own identity: one that takes pride in her newfound love of art, her ability to help her community, and, yes, even in her parents and Tia Perla itself. Heartfelt and funny, with a narrator you'll root for, this is a charming story celebrating family, friends, and delicious food.

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C$8.22 (CAD)
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£7.61 (GBP)
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A$14.99 (AUD)
Amazon.com
$5.99 (USD)

Love Sugar Magic: A Dash of Trouble

Love Sugar Magic: A Dash of Trouble

Written by: Anna Meriano
Illustrated by: Mirelle Ortega
Recommended Age: 8 - 12

Leonora's mother, aunt, and older sisters run the best bakery in Rose Hill, Texas, and Leonora wants to help prepare for Dia de los Muertos — but once again, they tell her she's too young. One day, when Leo sneaks down to the bakery, she learns why: they are all brujas, witches of Mexican ancestry, and they bake a little delicious magic into every bite! Leo's sure she's old enough to learn magic too, so when her best friend has a problem, she decides to dig into the family recipe book. But Leo doesn't read Spanish, so deciphering the recipes isn't easy... and when things go awry, Leo learns that her family will support her but she has to fix her own mistakes! This charming story effortlessly weaves together Mexican, Texan, and American cultures and adds a dash of mystery and magic to delightful effect. The story continues in this three-part series in A Sprinkle of Spirits.

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C$8.65 (CAD)
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£5.17 (GBP)
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A$13.94 (AUD)
Amazon.com
$6.99 (USD)

Unusual Chickens for the Exceptional Poultry Farmer

Unusual Chickens for the Exceptional Poultry Farmer

Written by: Kelly Jones
Illustrated by: Katie Kath
Recommended Age: 8 - 12

Sophie Brown feels totally out of place when her parents move her from big-city LA to the farm they've inherited from a great-uncle, especially when it becomes obvious that the townsfolk assume she and her Latino family are migrant workers rather than landowners. But the farm gets a little more interesting when Sophie discovers that one of the chickens can move things with her mind! Soon, more of her great-uncle's chickens — with even more unusual powers — are coming home to roost. And when a local farmer rival tries to steal the chickens, Sophie will have to find a way to keep her very special chickens safe. Told in a combinations of letters, quizzes, to-do lists, and sections of a correspondence course on chicken care, this fun and quirky story is sure to be a favorite.

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C$10.60 (CAD)
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£6.89 (GBP)
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A$16.99 (AUD)
Amazon.com
$7.79 (USD)

Me, Frida, and the Secret of the Peacock Ring

Me, Frida, and the Secret of the Peacock Ring

Written by: Angela Cervantes
Recommended Age: 9 - 12

Paloma is visiting Mexico City for the first time; she's hoping that her deceased father's hometown will help her remember at least a few things about it. There, she meets siblings Lizzie and Gael, who invite her to join them on a search for the peacock ring, which once belonged to beloved artist Frida Kahlo. But can Paloma help them find the ring — and are the siblings really hoping to find it so that all of Mexico can enjoy it? This middle-grade mystery cleverly incorporates an intriguing introduction to Kahlo's life, along with an atmospheric exploration of her Mexican home.

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C$22.99 (CAD)
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£16.57 (GBP)
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A$23.82 (AUD)
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$15.40 (USD)

The First Rule of Punk

The First Rule of Punk

Written by: Celia C. Pérez
Illustrated by: Celia C. Pérez
Recommended Age: 9 - 12

Twelve-year-old Malú is struggling with the aftermath of her parents' divorce: she misses her laid-back, artsy, white father, and feels pressured by her academic mother, who she calls "SuperMexican." And on the first day at her new school, Chuck Taylor-wearing, punk-loving Malú violates the school dress code and angers the school's queen bee, who calls her a "coconut": brown on the outside, white on the inside. But when Malú gets a band started with some fellow misfits, she'll do anything to keep it together — even if it means standing up to her mother, the school administration, and the world! This exploration of friendship, identity, and the joy of rocking out to your own beat is sure to inspire your Mighty Girl to stand up for what she believes in!

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C$11.99 (CAD)
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£6.99 (GBP)
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A$20.32 (AUD)
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$7.19 (USD)

Silver Meadows Summer

Silver Meadows Summer

Written by: Emma Otheguy
Recommended Age: 9 - 12

When 11-year-old Carolina's Papi loses his job, her family has to move from Puerto Rico to upstate New York, where her Tí­a Cuca and Uncle Porter live. That means a summer at Silver Meadows Camp, under the shadow of her imperious cousin Gabriela. But Caroline develops a friendship with a fellow artist, Jennifer, and discovers an abandoned cottage where she can create art and explore her feelings. And when Silver Meadows (and the cottage) are threatened, she and Gabriela even manage to work together in an effort to save them. This charming and touching story about finding friendship and home in a new land is as warm as a summer's day.

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C$11.99 (CAD)
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£6.99 (GBP)
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A$23.73 (AUD)
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$8.99 (USD)

Tortilla Sun

Tortilla Sun

Written by: Jennifer Cervantes
Recommended Age: 9 - 12

Twelve-year-old Izzy is helping unpack after yet another move when she discovers a baseball marked with the words: "Because... magic." Her curiosity is piqued, but she knows her mother won't satisfy it — her mother never answers any questions about her father, who died before she was born. But when her mother declares that she's finishing her studies in Costa Rica that summer — and that Izzy will be saying with her Nana in New Mexico — perhaps Izzy has a chance to learn more. Nana and her community welcome Izzy with open arms, and soon she's making tortillas, watching her grandmother's work as a curandera providing folk remedies, and even uncovering a few of those family mysteries she's always wanted to know. This gentle story full of appealing characters feels warm, cozy, and eminently satisfying.

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C$13.50 (CAD)
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£8.50 (GBP)
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A$26.83 (AUD)
Amazon.com
$7.37 (USD)

The Other Half of Happy

The Other Half of Happy

Written by: Rebecca Balcárcel
Recommended Age: 9 - 12

Half Guatemalan, half American Quijana never really minded feeling more Anglo than Latinx until her Guatemalan cousins moved to town. Suddenly, her father is embarrassed that she doesn't speak Spanish or know much about her Guatemalan heritage. Quijana, on the other hand, is busy worrying about her Grandma, who's going through cancer treatment in Florida. When her parents announce the whole family will be traveling to Guatemala, Quijana plots to go to Florida instead — but maybe she needs this trip in order to figure out how all the pieces of her identity fit together. Lyrical and heartfelt, this poetic debut novel will speak to anyone who has felt like they live between the "categories" of our world.

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C$11.99 (CAD)
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£5.99 (GBP)
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A$20.71 (AUD)
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$7.99 (USD)

The Moon Within

The Moon Within

Written by: Aida Salazar
Recommended Age: 9 - 12

Black-Puerto Rican-Mexican 11-year-old Celi Rivera is struggling with many changes. Her body is developing, and she's got her first crush. Her best friend, Mar, is exploring a change from girl to xochihuah, a genderfluid identity. Worst of all, her mother is insisting on an ancestral Mexica moon ceremony when Celi has her first period — a tradition Celi desperately wants to avoid. When her crush starts being cruel to Mar, Celi also feels torn between her loyalty to her friend and her attraction. Told in rhythmic and vibrant verse, this novel explores cultural identity, feminine strength, and the power of accepting both yourself and others.

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C$9.99 (CAD)
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£12.43 (GBP)
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A$20.24 (AUD)
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$7.99 (USD)

Merci Suárez Changes Gears

Merci Suárez Changes Gears

Written by: Meg Medina
Recommended Age: 9 - 12

Merci is full of confidence and drive, but sixth grade will test even her. As a scholarship student at her Florida private school, she's always felt different from her peers, and this year, her required community service makes Merci the target of the school queen bee's jealousy. Meanwhile, her grandfather Lolo has been acting strangely, from forgetting things to getting angry over nothing, and no one will tell her what's going on. Fortunately, her take-charge personality helps her overcome all the bumps in the road! This Newbery Medal-winning coming-of-age tale stays light, while still tackling tough issues facing many middle-grade kids. Merci's story continues in Merci Suárez Can't Dance and concludes in Merci Suárez Plays It Cool.

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C$10.99 (CAD)
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£10.79 (GBP)
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A$13.09 (AUD)
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$5.40 (USD)

Dancing Home

Dancing Home

Recommended Age: 9 - 12

Although she was born there, Margie doesn't consider herself Mexican, and she's devoted years of work to ensuring her classmates don't see her that way, either. Then her cousin Lupe moves from Mexico, hoping to see her father, who went north to find work — and to Margie's horror, Lupe is assigned to her class. Now Lupe's frilly clothes and struggles with English are challenging Margie's carefully crafted identity, especially when she's told to translate the teacher's lessons despite not speaking much Spanish. Slowly, though, both Lupe and Margie fall into step with one another, and together they discover how to create new selves that acknowledge both their Mexican heritage and their American home. This beautiful novel, which was also published in a Spanish edition, Nacer bailando, tackles important issues about bullying, cultural identity, and family.

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C$8.84 (CAD)
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(Unavailable)
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A$22.48 (AUD)
Amazon.com
$6.99 (USD)

Lety Out Loud

Lety Out Loud

Written by: Angela Cervantes
Recommended Age: 9 - 12

Lety is an immigrant from Mexico, and she's still improving her English. She loves volunteering at the local animal shelter, so when the shelter is looking for people to write profiles of the animals, Lety's excited to volunteer. But her classmate Hunter also wants the job, and proposes a secret competition: whoever's descriptions get more animals adopted fastest wins the job. Now Lety's worried about the shelter finding out, about her descriptions not being good enough, and about losing out on the chance to adopt Spike, her favorite dog. This story about finding your voice — even if you have to do it in a new language — will also give young readers new empathy for the immigrant experience in America.

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C$9.99 (CAD)
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£6.84 (GBP)
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A$25.08 (AUD)
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$5.99 (USD)

Ghosts

Ghosts

Written by: Raina Telgemeier
Illustrated by: Raina Telgemeier
Recommended Age: 9 - 13

Catrina's family is moving to Bahia de la Luna, where the coastal air will help Maya's cystic fibrosis symptoms. Cat misses her friends and resents being forced to move, but she loves her sister and is terrified of Maya getting sick. So when their neighbor tells them that Bahia de la Luna is home to ghosts — spirits of ancestors who watch over them — Cat wants nothing to do with them... and is horrified to discover that Maya seems fascinated by the ghosts. As the Day of the Dead approaches, and Cat meets the ghosts face to face, she'll learn more about the Mexican side of her heritage — and learn to set her fears aside, for both Maya's sake and her own. This original graphic novel by the author / illustrator of best-selling graphic novels Smile, Sisters, and Drama is sure to delight your Raina Telgemeier fan!

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(Unavailable)
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(Unavailable)
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A$13.85 (AUD)
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$9.12 (USD)

Becoming Naomi León

Becoming Naomi León

Written by: Pam Munoz Ryan
Recommended Age: 9 - 13

It's hard going through school as Naomi Soledad León Outlaw — between her long name and the hand-made clothes, she's never been one of the popular kids. But her grandmother is a loving guardian for her and her brother, whose physical deformities make him stand out, and tries her best to teach them both about their Mexican heritage. When Naomi's mother finally shows back up after seven years, with a scary boyfriend in tow, it soon becomes obvious that her motivations are more about profit and convenience than about reconnecting with her children. Fortunately, Gram and their Mexican neighbors work together so that Naomi can finally have the security she desperately needs. Touching and inspiring, this book asks important questions about what it really means to be family.

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C$9.91 (CAD)
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£7.94 (GBP)
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A$13.99 (AUD)
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$6.69 (USD)

Iveliz Explains It All

Iveliz Explains It All

Written by: Andrea Beatriz Arango
Illustrated by: Alyssa Bermudez
Recommended Age: 10 - 13

Iveliz has spent the past few years struggling: her father's traumatic death has left her with PTSD, panic attacks, and emotional outbursts she can't control. She doesn't like to talk about any of it, and uses her journal of poetry as an outlet — but with the help of medication, she finally feels like grade 7 will be different. But life seems to throw more challenges at her: her abuela Mimi has arrived from Puerto Rico, but her Alzheimer's is getting worse and she keeps saying Iveliz's medicine isn't necessary. Mami is always working, and people at school keep trying to make her angry on purpose. But maybe through her poetry (and with the help of the counselor she nicknames Dr. Turnip) Iveliz can learn how to advocate for the help — and understanding — she needs. This compassionate novel in verse is a poigant exploration of mental health and finding your voice.

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C$19.50 (CAD)
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£12.99 (GBP)
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A$29.99 (AUD)
Amazon.com
$9.99 (USD)

Paola Santiago and the River of Tears

Paola Santiago and the River of Tears

Written by: Tehlor Kay Mejia
Recommended Age: 10 - 13

12-year-old Paola is embarrassed by her mother's warning to stay away from the Gila River, where she says La Llorona lurks; the space-loving girl believes in science, not superstition. Except when she arranges to meet her friends Dante and Emma near the river to try out her new telescope, Emma never arrives... and Pao sees a figure hiding in the reeds. To rescue her friend, Pao has to enter a world full of nightmares and folk tales, where she'll discover that legends — and her own conflicting feelings — have a power of their own. Tehlor Kay Mejia draws on her Latinx heritage to create a fantasy adventure exploring our connection with ancestry and the strength of friendship.

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C$11.99 (CAD)
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£5.35 (GBP)
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A$12.99 (AUD)
Amazon.com
$7.99 (USD)

Hour of the Bees

Hour of the Bees

Written by: Lindsay Eagar
Recommended Age: 10 - 13

12-year-old Carol has never felt much connection to her Hispanic heritage — and she's never even met her grandfather, Serge. Then her parents tell her that instead of spending the summer with her friends, the whole family has to go to New Mexico to help him move to a home for people with dementia. Surprisingly, Carol finds herself bonding with Serge, and he starts sharing stories of a life-giving tree, bees that will end a drought, and more. Before long she's wondering — could Serge's stories be real? This poignant intergenerational story uses magical realism to explore finding your roots and celebrating every moment that life has to give.

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C$12.99 (CAD)
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(Unavailable)
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A$9.82 (AUD)
Amazon.com
$9.99 (USD)

Lucky Broken Girl

Lucky Broken Girl

Written by: Ruth Behar
Recommended Age: 10 - 13

Ruthie is just beginning to regain some confidence after immigrating from Castro's Cuba to New York City: she's slowly learning English, and she's earned her place as the neighborhood's hopscotch queen. Then the unthinkable happens: a car accident leaves her in a body cast, restricted to bed for a year. Ruthie's world has shrunk, but the time gives her the opportunity to consider many things, from her feelings about the boys whose car hit her to the kindness of those around her to her own budding joy in writing and art. Inspired by her real-life experience in the 1960s — both immigrating and suffering injuries that required a long recovery — this book is inspiring, vulnerable, and real.

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C$11.99 (CAD)
Amazon.co.uk
(Unavailable)
Amazon.com.au
A$22.69 (AUD)
Amazon.com
$6.99 (USD)

Tumble

Tumble

Written by: Celia C. Pérez
Recommended Age: 10 - 13

12-year-old Addie Ramírez is dealing with a lot of changes very fast: she has a new half-brother on the way, a big school theater performance coming up, and her stepfather Alex has just offered to adopt her. Addie loves Alex, but she's still got questions about the biological father she never knew... and her research leads her to the legendary Bravos, a family of luchadores! Manny, her father, keeps her at arm's length, but her grandparents, her identical twin cousins, and her uncle Mateo welcome her into the family pastime. But Addie soon realizes that each of them is dealing with their own struggles — and that being a family sometimes means taking off your mask. The award-winning author of The First Rule of Punk and Strange Birds has crafted a charming novel about the complexities of family and the joy of finding yourself.

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C$24.49 (CAD)
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£13.79 (GBP)
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A$15.49 (AUD)
Amazon.com
$13.19 (USD)

Into the Tall, Tall Grass

Into the Tall, Tall Grass

Written by: Loriel Ryon
Recommended Age: 10 - 13

12-year-old Yolanda is struggling with losses past and future: her mother died long ago, her father is fighting in Afghanistan, and her best friend now seems to get along better with her twin sister, Sonja. And then Wela, Yolanda's beloved grandmother and the girls' guardian, falls into an unexplained sleep. She doesn't even have the family "gift" of a connection with nature, something Sonja and Wela share. But when strange grass grows behind their house, Wela wakes... and sets Yolanda the task of getting her to the last pecan tree on the family's land. With her sister, her former best friend, and her friend's brother all tagging along, Yolanda will learn why the family gift can also be a curse... and discover her own gifts. With its deft blend of magical realism and science, this captivating novel explores identity, confidence, and accepting who you are.

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C$9.98 (CAD)
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£8.99 (GBP)
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A$13.80 (AUD)
Amazon.com
$8.99 (USD)

Return to Sender

Return to Sender

Written by: Julia Alvarez
Recommended Age: 10 and up

Tyler's father was injured in a tractor accident, and they're facing foreclosure on their Vermont family farm if they can't get the harvest in. His parents hire a family of migrant workers, but Tyler finds himself wondering if hiring undocumented workers is the right decision. Meanwhile Mari, the family's oldest daughter, challenges his preconceptions with her combination of pride in her Mexican heritage and connection to her American life. As Tyler and Mari become friends, she tells him more about her family's struggles: the poverty they left behind, their fear being deported, and her desperate desire to know if her missing mother is safe. Told in alternating chapters of Tyler's third-person perspective and Mari's diary entries and unsent letters to Mami, this novel tackles the complexity of the issues around undocumented migrant workers in a way that's easily understandable for tweens and teens.

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C$11.06 (CAD)
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£3.23 (GBP)
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A$18.00 (AUD)
Amazon.com
$7.99 (USD)

Esperanza Rising

Esperanza Rising

Written by: Pam Munoz Ryan
Recommended Age: 10 and up

Esperanza grew up in privilege in Mexico, but when her father is killed by bandits shortly before her thirteenth birthday, she and her mother flee to America. In Depression-era California, no one cares about the elegant life Esperanza remembers: she’s just a farm worker, good for nothing but hard labor. But as Esperanza struggles with poverty, racism, and grief, a spirit of labor organization is blossoming around her. Hope is coming both for Esperanza and for the workers around her struggling to get by. This Pura Belpre Award-winning novel stars a courageous girl determined to find a way to rise above her difficult circumstances.

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C$9.99 (CAD)
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£7.99 (GBP)
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A$17.25 (AUD)
Amazon.com
$5.34 (USD)

The Revolution of Evelyn Serrano

The Revolution of Evelyn Serrano

Written by: Sonia Manzano
Recommended Age: 12 and up

Evelyn — who changed her name from Rosa to sound more "mainstream" — starts developing a new view on her heritage when her sassy Abuela, newly arrived from Puerto Rico, helps her see the many problems with their Spanish Harlem neighborhood. When Puerto Rican activist group the Young Lords start protesting, and Abuela steps in to take charge, Evelyn finds herself thrust into the action... and discovers that she feels like she belongs there. Sonia Manzano, who grew up to play Maria on Sesame Street, based this novel on real events from her childhood in El Barrio, and includes an appendix with reports from the New York Times about the real-life protests. A powerful story of identity and family drama, this novel is sure to generate discussion.

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C$13.99 (CAD)
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£8.46 (GBP)
Amazon.com.au
A$27.16 (AUD)
Amazon.com
$9.89 (USD)

Under the Mesquite

Under the Mesquite

Recommended Age: 12 and up

Lupita's Mami has been diagnosed with cancer, and suddenly worries about high school, her role in a play, and her friends seem unimportant. While her father takes Mami to a clinic out of town, Lupita has to care for her younger siblings — and struggles to keep the family going. Her only refuge is the shadow of a mesquite tree, where she can retreat to write. In the midst of the chaos and fears about Mami's health, though, Lupita might discover her voice. This evocative novel in verse captures the power of the written word — whatever the language — as well as the importance of family when people are in crisis.

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C$10.33 (CAD)
Amazon.co.uk
£17.17 (GBP)
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A$47.44 (AUD)
Amazon.com
$20.85 (USD)

The Tequila Worm

The Tequila Worm

Written by: Viola Canales
Recommended Age: 12 and up

Sofia comes from a family of storytellers in a small Texas town. Each chapter in this book are Sofia's stories of growing up in the barrio, full of the mystery and magic of family traditions. Until finally she reaches a turning point: a scholarship to an elite boarding school that will take her far from home. But as she faces this new experience, she realizes how much these traditions matter to her — and how to combine her childhood dreams of being a comadre with the skills she's learned in her new world. This warm novel, full of details about Mexican-American traditions, is sure to delight young adult readers searching for their own place in the world.

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C$8.99 (CAD)
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£6.50 (GBP)
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A$20.90 (AUD)
Amazon.com
$7.39 (USD)

Yaqui Delgado Wants To Kick Your Ass

Yaqui Delgado Wants To Kick Your Ass

Written by: Meg Medina
Recommended Age: 13 and up

One day, a girl Piddy Sanchez barely knows tell her that Yaqui Delgado, head of a gang of girls at school, hates her. Piddy doesn't even know who Yaqui is, but it turns out that Yaqui thinks that Piddy isn't "Latin enough" — white skin, good grades, and no accent — which makes her "stuck-up attitude" even worse in Yaqui's eyes. Piddy tries to focus on finding the father she's never met, and balancing schoolwork and a weekend job, but as the harassment ramps up, Piddy starts to wonder if she can survive without running away or giving up who she is. The sense of claustrophobia and fear in this title, and the lack of easy solutions despite many caring adults, makes this a realistic and emotional look at bullying, class conflict, and ethnic identity.

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C$21.71 (CAD)
Amazon.co.uk
(Unavailable)
Amazon.com.au
A$28.45 (AUD)
Amazon.com
$7.99 (USD)

The Poet X

The Poet X

Written by: Elizabeth Acevedo
Recommended Age: 14 and up

15-year-old Xiomara Batista feels voiceless in her largely Dominican community in Harlem: since she developed curves, she's relied on her fierce exterior and a willingness to throw a punch to keep herself safe. But she pours all of her frustration and insecurity — as well as her conflicts with her strict, religious mother — onto the pages of a notebook. When Xiomara is invited to join her school's slam poetry club, however, she's faced with a choice: leave her poems unspoken or raise her voice, no matter what people think. This powerful novel in verse, winner of the 2018 National Book Award for Young People’s Literature, offers a thoughtful look at identity, family, and the power of words through the eyes of a teen girl.

Buy:
Buy:
Amazon.ca
C$19.99 (CAD)
Amazon.co.uk
(Unavailable)
Amazon.com.au
A$19.51 (AUD)
Amazon.com
$9.99 (USD)

I Am Not Your Perfect Mexican Daughter

I Am Not Your Perfect Mexican Daughter

Written by: Erika L. Sánchez
Recommended Age: 14 and up

In Julia's family, Olga was the dutiful daughter who planned to stay home with her Mexican parents rather than going away to college. That left Julia free to fulfill her own dreams... until Olga was killed in an accident. Now, Julia is the one who has to hold the family together, and her mother is too busy lamenting Julia's failings to realize Julia's grieving too. Then Julia discovers that Olga had her own secrets, and becomes determined to learn more about the sister she now wishes she had known better. This gritty story about a girl facing grief, poverty, and the weight of family expectations is both poignant and funny in turns.

Buy:
Buy:
Amazon.ca
C$25.38 (CAD)
Amazon.co.uk
£18.49 (GBP)
Amazon.com.au
A$36.19 (AUD)
Amazon.com
$11.69 (USD)

With The Fire On High

With The Fire On High

Written by: Elizabeth Acevedo
Recommended Age: 14 and up

When Emoni got pregnant in her freshman year of high school, she stopped thinking about her future to focus on her daughter. Now a senior, she balances motherhood (and joint custody with her ex-boyfriend), school, work, and caring for her abuela. Nevertheless, she can't help but imagine life as a chef: her "magical hands" let people who eat her food sample deep memories. But when a high school cooking elective opens up the opportunity for a week-long apprenticeship in Spain — and a possible relationship with Malachi, a new student — Emoni will realize that she is strong enough to pursue dreams that used to feel impossible. Elizabeth Alcevedo, author of the National Book Award winning The Poet X, celebrates perseverance, passion, and the power of sharing food together in this gripping novel.

Buy:
Buy:
Amazon.ca
C$16.00 (CAD)
Amazon.co.uk
£6.12 (GBP)
Amazon.com.au
A$22.76 (AUD)
Amazon.com
$8.99 (USD)

The Lesbiana's Guide to Catholic School

The Lesbiana's Guide to Catholic School

Written by: Sonora Reyes
Recommended Age: 14 and up

16-year-old Yami Flores has a mission now that's she's starting at a new (predominantly rich and white) Catholic school: nobody is going to find out that she's gay. She's still reeling from the betrayal after her crush/ex-best friend outed her publicly, and she's determined that Mami will never find out. Except at Slayton Catholic, she meets Bo, who wears uniform trousers instead of skirts and pairs them with rainbow sneakers. As Yami and Bo get closer, it gets harder and harder for Yami to follow her new motto: WWSGD, or What would a straight girl do — but she's not sure how much she'd risk if she speaks out. Both funny and deeply vulnerable, this charming story is an exploration of self-acceptance, found family, and living as your true self.

Buy:
Buy:
Amazon.ca
C$20.25 (CAD)
Amazon.co.uk
£18.20 (GBP)
Amazon.com.au
A$38.90 (AUD)
Amazon.com
$12.99 (USD)

Furia

Furia

Written by: Yamile Saied Méndez
Recommended Age: 14 and up

17-year-old Camila Hassan is a dutiful Argentinian daughter at home, pleasing her mother and avoiding her abusive father — but on the soccer field, she is a rising star known as La Furia. When her team qualifies for the South American tournament, it opens a world of possibilities: she could even be scouting for the North American university. But to compete, she needs her parents' permission... and just to add more complications, Diego, the boy she loved who left to play for an internationally renowned soccer team, has returned to try to win her back. A vivid Argentinian setting provides the backdrop for romance, sports heroism, and a powerful story of a girl trying to create her own identity in the world.

Buy:
Buy:
Amazon.ca
C$14.95 (CAD)
Amazon.co.uk
£8.99 (GBP)
Amazon.com.au
A$15.59 (AUD)
Amazon.com
$7.99 (USD)

¡Ay, Mija! My Bilingual Summer in Mexico

¡Ay, Mija! My Bilingual Summer in Mexico

Written by: Christine Suggs
Illustrated by: Christine Suggs
Recommended Age: 14 and up

16-year-old Christine is used to having their mother along when they visit their grandparents and tía in Mexico — but this year, work commitments mean that their mom has to arrive two weeks late. That means two weeks of struggling with Spanish, feeling like they don't fit in either white or Mexican communities, and wrestling with body image without any support. But as Christine sees where their mom grew up — and learns more about the impacts of colonialism on both their mother's country and their mother's family — they begin to discover new things about themselves, too. This bilingual, semi-autobiographical graphic novel is an exploration of both embracing and rebelling against tradition, as well as what it means to belong.

Buy:
Buy:
Amazon.ca
C$22.99 (CAD)
Amazon.co.uk
£11.27 (GBP)
Amazon.com.au
A$29.99 (AUD)
Amazon.com
$13.00 (USD)

The House On Mango Street

The House On Mango Street

Written by: Sandra Cisneros
Recommended Age: 14 and up

Esperanza Cordero is a Latina girl coming of age in a world that’s full of joy and laughter, but also oppression and struggle. In a series of vignettes, many in free verse, she decides that the house on Mango Street is only temporary, a place she must stay until she can find a better life, away from the poor neighborhood where she grew up. At the same time, she is determined not to forget those who she leaves behind, but to come back and help lift them out of poverty as well. Full of clever, funny observations and insightful views of gender roles and culture, this modern classic is perfect for thoughtful teen readers.

Buy:
Buy:
Amazon.ca
C$15.95 (CAD)
Amazon.co.uk
£20.00 (GBP)
Amazon.com.au
A$29.64 (AUD)
Amazon.com
$8.25 (USD)

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