I am, yo soy

On days when "I feel like I am not from here, ni de aquí" or "I feel like I am not from there, ni de allá," the narrator of this affirming picture book is reminded that "I am the same in two languages. Each with its own history, heritage, and traditions--both pieces important because they make me whole." Kicking off phrases with "I am," simple text by Orozco Belt highlights dual experiences: "I am Independence Day on the 4th of July... And I am Independence Day on September 15." Ortega's speckle-textured digital scenes show children of various skin tones enjoying corn on the cob and elote, football and soccer, Halloween and Day of the Dead, and more. Though the frequently bilingual text consistently translates Spanish into English, English phrases often fail to appear with Spanish counterparts, undercutting the book's message of fluidity across languages and cultures. Nevertheless, the work provides a meaningful reflection of "all that I am and where I am from." Ages 4--8. (Mar.)

Orozco Belt pays tribute to the richness of the bicultural, bilingual experience. Though the author starts off by addressing feelings of alienation--"Some days I feel like I am not from here, ni de aquí"--she emphasizes that identity isn't a struggle but something worth celebrating. A variety of Latine children, who vary in skin tone, offer personal and unique perspectives, using food, sports, and holidays to render tangible a potentially complex and abstract concept. "I am football--gridiron, pigskin, touchdowns…And I am soccer--pass, shot, goal!" "I am 'Happy Birthday to You.' / Blow out the candles and make a wish…And I am 'The Mornings.' / Sung in the early morning, filled with joy." National flags and references to specific customs--dancing bachata, observing Día de los Muertos--emphasize the diversity within Latine cultures. The book opens with a vibrant, contrasting palette, with hot hues set against cooler ones; Ortega maintains this color scheme while shifting to increasingly imaginative and expressive backdrops. Narrated in first person, with Spanish phrases sprinkled throughout (and color-coded translations for the English statements), it's an engaging, easy-to-follow, and ultimately affirming work sure to leave readers smiling. Sweet and empowering.(Picture book. 4-8) Copyright (c) Kirkus Reviews, used with permission.