The amount of details in the book is amazing, you really have a feel for the culture of the family. The story revolves around a family that goes back to mexico to celebrate Christmas back in their home town. The parents show their children about the opportunity they receive due to their work in america however, to remember where their real home is. The Book itself is a good book to help children be proud of their roots and to admire those differences, your also able to show case a new culture by examining the book itself. The book can tell you a lot about the culture, for example the background and pictures/ drawling stay true to mexico origin. ( )

Carlos, a child who was born in America, is taking his very first journey to Mexico for Christmas. Though his mother and father calls Mexico home, he's never known this home and does not feel it in his heart. As the journey begins Carlos begins to see the people and the beautiful land as he travels. He meets his family that he's never met and falls in love with Mexico. It's a story of understanding and knowing your heritage. Carlos understands the purpose behind his family leaving Mexico for a better life in North America, and learns the importance of their sacrifice. Reading a story through the eyes of a child is very powerful because as the reader you connect with the innocence. ( )

This book is about a family who revisits where they are from in Mexico. It talks about why they have moved to America, and gives a really good cultural background of Mexico.

I thought this was a great book and its genre is fantasy, I liked how Eve Bunting chose to include Spanish words throughout the book. "'Si. Papeles.' Papa speaks always in Spanish." It shows how Carlos and his siblings differ from their parents because they speak English. I also like the choices made by the illustrator. The background of each page is actually a photograph of Mexican artifacts. The illustrator then puts a drawing of what is happening in the story on top. Overall this story shows the sacrifices parents make to give greater opportunities to their children. This book is meaningful and appropriate for elementary school students. ( )

Illustrator Study: David Diaz

Themes: Immigration, Family, Home, Opportunity, Empathy