Mariana and Her Familia

(Hardback)

Publishing Details

Classifications

Physical Properties

Description

A heartwarming picture book about a young girl on her first trip to visit family in Mexico, who learns there is no language barrier when it comes to lovefrom debut author Mnica Mancillas and rising star illustrator Erika Meza. Perfect for fans of Where Are You From and Mango, Abuela, and Me.

Mariana is visiting her abuelita and extended family in Mexico for the first time. Her tummy does a flip as she and Mami cross the frontera.

There are all new sights, smells, and sounds. And at Abuelitas house, Mariana is overwhelmed by new faces and Spanish phrases she doesnt understand.

But with a story, some kindness, and a few new words from Abuelita, Mariana discovers that the love of family knows no cultural divide.

Reviews

"Mancillas and Mezas picture book is a poignant reminder that, while loved ones may not speak the same languages, their affection and care for one another transcends any human language and is a language in and of itself. Mancillas touching story will be relatable to many first-, second-, and third-generation children and grandchildren of immigrants, who may be reconnecting with their own familias after time and distance apart." Booklist (starred review) "A childs uncertainty in navigating the dual identities of a bicultural upbringing is affirmingly depicted in Mancillass insightful debut. Mancillass assured narrative, which rings with compassion, smatters Spanish words throughout English lines; in Mezas watercolor pencil and gouache illustrations, Mariana swells with love that gives way to bright-eyed affection for a new place and new people." Publishers Weekly Measured in its empathy, this tale admirably explores a familial scenario that many readers will understand all too well. A sweet look at what familia can mean. Kirkus Reviews

Author Bio

Mnica Mancillas is an author, musician, and unapologetic dreamer. She is passionate about writing books in which children of all backgrounds can see themselves on the pages. A first-generation immigrant, her own story closely mirrors that of Mariana and Her Familia. She lives in California with her familia and their dog, Annie, a beta fish, and a lizard. Learn more about her books atwww.monicamancillas.com. Erika Meza migrated from Mexico in 2013, leaving behind her family, friends and her favorite food. She lived in a dungeon with a ghosts-and-ghouls-painting princess, learned how to tell stories, then found and lost a spotted dog in Paris, where she attended school. She finally crossed the France-UK border and settled down in London, where she lives in a small flat and works as an author and illustrator, aided by her cat who tries to leave inky paw prints on her work. She tries to go back home often, at the border of Tijuana and San Diego, where her book was born.