My Abuela is a bruja

K-Gr 2--A day spent in a lush land with a girl and her abuela, deeply connected to nature and each other. Based on the author's own upbringing in Puerto Rico, this lyrical story shows a little girl spending the day with her grandmother, whom she thinks is a witch because she can grow a bountiful garden and make delicious food. They show affection and respect for one another; they talk about the women who came before them, and those who will come after. This book is a resounding triumph, where heritage, family, nature, history, and love come together. The breathtaking illustrations and color palette will transport readers to a luminous, vibrant, tropical place. The detailed images invite children to explore each page with wonder and awe. The abuela and most characters have brown skin. The English edition includes Spanish throughout, and a glossary at the end. Both editions have photos and letters from the author, in addition to recipes. VERDICT A first purchase for libraries serving Spanish-speaking communities, especially those with Puerto Rican patrons.--Carolina Youssif

A child and her abuela spend cherished time together. The girl affectionately calls her grandmother a bruja--a witch--because of the magic that seems to infuse her every activity. Whether growing a garden rife with "rich beds of yuca" or whipping up flan that tastes of "sugary kisses and caramel dreams," Abuela performs each task with such confidence and grace that witchcraft seems the only possible explanation. Eager to uncover Abuela's secrets, the girl pays close attention to everything she does; she longs to discover her own magic, but Abuela gently counsels patience. She reveals that magic has always been within her, passed down through generations from their Taíno ancestors. Slowly, the girl begins to understand. Cuevas and Alvarez Gómez beautifully capture the tender bond between grandmother and granddaughter, set against the vibrant backdrop of Puerto Rico. Melodic language blends with illustrations bursting with color and detail, such as reinitas (black and yellow birds) and the güiro (a traditional Puerto Rican instrument). Tastes, sounds, scents, and feelings come alive on every page; this is a tale that celebrates cultural heritage and encourages readers to find magic in the quotidian. Abuela is brown-skinned with curly black-and-gray hair, while her granddaughter has light brown skin and curly black hair. Publishes simultaneously in Spanish. A heartfelt tribute to family, culture, and the everyday magic that connects us. (glossary, recipes)(Picture book. 4-9) Copyright (c) Kirkus Reviews, used with permission.