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Reviewed by Carol Thompson for Readers' Favorite
Angelito’s Big Adventure by Joel Contreras is a heartwarming children’s book that beautifully captures the journey of a young boy embracing his cultural identity during a significant life change. The story follows Angelito, a lively boy from Mexico City whose life is filled with his hometown’s vibrant culture, colors, and sounds. His daily routine with his mother, riding through iconic Mexican landmarks, paints a vivid picture of a city rich with history and life. The narrative is pivotal when Angelito and his family move to Atlanta, Georgia. The story skillfully addresses the challenges children in diaspora communities face, including adapting to a new environment and facing classmates’ curiosity and, sometimes, insensitivity toward their cultural practices. This transition is portrayed with sensitivity and realism, emphasizing Angelito’s initial struggle to find his place in this new world.
Joel Contreras does an excellent job of portraying Angelito’s growth from feeling like an outsider to becoming a confident ambassador for his culture. The message is clear and powerful: embracing heritage isn’t just about preserving traditions; it’s also about sharing them proudly with others, no matter where you are in the world. When Angelito shares his Mexican culture with his classmates by introducing them to traditional Mexican foods, it is a turning point, transforming his experience from isolation to cultural exchange and appreciation. It’s a beautiful depiction of how food can bridge cultural gaps and build understanding among people. The illustrations by Cecilia Carraro enhance the story, adding emotion to Angelito’s journey. Her artwork complements the themes by visually celebrating the richness of Mexican culture and the vibrancy of Angelito’s new life in the U.S. Angelito’s Big Adventure is written in English and Spanish, making it a culturally enriching story.
