A Gift from Papa Diego: Un Regalo de Papa Diego

Under the star-sprinkled skies that stretch from New Mexico to Mexico, Dieguito’s heart hums with the promise of bedtime kisses across the border, each Spanish phrase—“mi corazón,” “buenas noches”—whispered like a secret lullaby that knits their worlds together. In this loving bilingual ode, Benjamin Alire Sáenz’s poetic prose and bright, clay-modeled illustrations transform a simple picture book into a bridge of Cultural Understanding, Immigrant Rights, and Family Diversity. A handy glossary of Spanish expressions and a complete Spanish text on every page invite bilingual literacy and champion Education Equity for all young readers, as People en Español praises its seamless Spanish translation and attractive design. Kirkus hails its warmth, School Library Journal praises its poignant clay artwork, and Naomi Shihab Nye calls it “a tender love story.” As classrooms, library storytimes, and family reading circles share these colorful pages, they learn how creativity and care can turn separation into connection—and limited coins into life-sustaining hope. Sáenz’s first children’s book is both a gift to young readers and a call to celebrate the bonds that defy distance, uniting hearts wherever they may be. Tap the Save to List button to bookmark this title, or tap the External Link button to view purchase and rental options.