Illustrated by John Parra. Lee & Low Books, Inc., New York, 2009.
Hardcover edition, 32 pages, ISBN 978-1-60060-258-0.
Parra's rosy-cheeked boy leads us through a busy day filled with gratitude for graces large and small, crucial and zany, beginning with: "For the sun that wakes me up so I don't sleep for years and years and grow a long white beard, thanks." The paint on wood of the illustrations, the colorful exotic flowers, and Hispanic decor give this modern story an old world feel.
Each double page spread features Spanish text on the left page and English text on the right. An author's note, also bilingual, exhorts the reader to look for things to be thankful for, and enumerates the author's own blessings. She adds, "Listing what I'm thankful for always makes me happy."
Helping children live a life looking on the bright side is of great social and personal benefit. This book reminds us that our American Thanksgiving holiday is not the only time to be grateful, but that every day we have a fresh opportunity to remember the good things.
ALA Notable Book, 2010
Bank Street Best Children's Books of the Year, 2010
Texas Library Association 2X2 Reading List, 2010
CCBC Choices, 2010
Golden Kite Award for Picture Book Illustration, 2009
Belpré Illustrator Honor Book, 2010
Booklist Starred Review
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