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 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.)