Gracias/Thanks

Gracias/Thanks (2009)
Author: Pat Mora, Illustrator: John Parra
Publisher: Lee & Low Books, Age: 5 to 9 (English/Spanish Text)

There are so many things to be thankful for. For one young boy, it’s flying ladybugs, splashing ocean waves, a best friend, and much more. Straight from the heart of a child flows this lighthearted bilingual celebration of family, friendship, and fun. Come share the joy, and think about all the things for which you can say, "¡Gracias! Thanks!" 

EDITORIAL REVIEWS:
“This delightful bilingual book has universal appeal and would be a wonderful choice for library storytimes or classroom read-alouds as the “giving thanks” theme lends itself to holidays and social topics. The author’s endnote challenges readers to list the things for which they are thankful. A must buy for all libraries looking to add to their children’s Spanish collections.” Shannon Dye Gemberling, Peoria Public Library, AZ —School Library Journal

“Mora has a keen sense of the concrete, child-friendly detail, and it's put to splendid use here. Readers will find themselves nodding in agreement as the unnamed narrator gives thanks to the ladybug that lands on his finger, the bees that don't sting him and his little brother, who throws mashed peas at their sister. Parra's folk-art-style acrylics evoke a suburban neighborhood replete with twining morning glories, green lawns and red-tiled roofs. The flat perspectives and bright colors skillfully complement the child's voice. Dominguez's Spanish translation precedes the English text of this bilingual tale on each spread, a thoughtful touch that honors both the book's creators and its Latino audience. For this graceful celebration, ¡gracias!”—Kirkus

AWARDS:
Pura Belpré Honors Award, ALA
Golden Kite Award for Picture Book Illustration, SCBWI
Notable Children's Book, ALA
Gelett Burgess: Children's Book of the Year
Bank Street Book Committee's Best Books of the Year for Children
2X2 Reading List, Texas Library Association
Tejas Star List, Texas Library Association
CCBC Choices (Cooperative Children's Book Center)
"Starred Review", Booklist
"Starred Review", Kirkus

ORDER: Amazon, Bookshop, B&N, Indiebound

MEDIA: Author Intro, Gratitude, Music Composition, Lorito Books (Audiobook), Goodreads