Early Reader Review: Paletero Man by Lucky Diaz

Source: From the publicist in exchange for an honest review. This in no way alters my opinion or review.

Paletero Man by Lucky Diaz 

Illustrated by Micah Player
Publisher: HarperCollins
Publication Date:  June 1, 2021

 

Format: Ebook


Rating:

Goodreads Synopsis: 

A truly refreshing picture book about determination, kindness, ice pops—and the true meaning of being part of a community—from Latin Grammy winning musician Lucky Diaz and celebrated artist Micah Player!

What’s the best way to cool off on a hot summer day? Run quick! And find Paletero José!

Ring! Ring! Ring!

Can you hear his call?

Paletas for one! Paletas for all!

Follow Paletero José’s call and rush along with our narrator as he passes through his vibrant and busy neighborhood in search of the Paletero Man. But when he arrives, our narrator’s pockets are empty! What happened to his dinero? It will take the help of the entire community to get the tasty treat now.

Celebrating the strength of community and the tastes of summer, fans of Thank You, Omu and Carmela Full of Wishes will be hungry for what Paletero Man has in store.

The book includes Spanish words and phrases throughout and an author’s note from Lucky Diaz about why he was inspired to write this picture book.

Review: 

This wonderfully colorful and enjoyable book. The illustrations are vibrant and full of movement. There is lots to look at in these two-page full spreads.  It also showcases a community of color and includes Spanish throughout. I should disclaimer that I don't speak or read Spanish, although I did take it as a language it didn't stick. This book did a good job of incorporating it so that you can understand through context clues. For younger readers this may be difficult so parents should try to have an understanding before reading to children. 

The book is about a boy running to meet up with the Paletero man, which is the fruit-ice pop man. Along the way the young boy passes by members of his community all working but still saying hello and trying to engage with him as he hurries to get his treat, only to find when he arrives that he has lost all is money. Luckily his community is a supportive one and they come to the rescue. 

This story was so heartwarming and will be a great one for bilingual families. It is also a great book as we start entering the warmer months, but be forewarned... as a reader you will then want an ice-pop... they look delicious in the illustrations.