María Mariposa

From acclaimed author Karla Arenas Valenti and New York Times–bestselling illustrator Ana Ramírez González comes a lyrical children's book about finding confidence, embracing identity, and recognizing that your unique self is more than enough.

A gift from Mexico alights on María Mariposa’s windowsill on her first day of school in a brand-new country: “¡Una mariposa!” / “A butterfly!” And with the butterfly, in comes magic. Filled from her toes to her new butterfly wings with memories of home, María knows exactly who she is. But when everything at school is different and strange, doubt begins to make María’s confidence fade away. The place she comes from, the community she loves, the magic inside her . . . does any of it really belong in her new life in the United States?

With courage and compassion, this picture book confronts the most difficult moments—and feelings—of being new, sweeping readers up in a powerful celebration of the magic we each contribute to the world.

TIMELY, REASSURING MESSAGE: This sweet story offers an inspiring, reassuring message, just right for kids facing the first day of school or a big move.

TEACHES SELF-LOVE AND EMPATHY: This book emphasizes the importance of courage, empathy, and friendship. Young readers will be encouraged to embrace new challenges with resilience and a strong sense of their own self-worth.

A STORY OF IMMIGRATION AND TRANSITION: This beautiful, lightly bilingual picture book speaks to the experiences of children who have moved or immigrated. A rich celebration of Mexican immigrant identity, it will resonate with any reader going through a time of transition and change.

A GREAT READ-ALOUD: The positive messages and gorgeous illustrations will spark imagination and inspire children to discover and express their own inner magic. It’s a perfect classroom or library read-aloud.

Perfect for:

• Parents, grandparents, and caregivers
• Educators and librarians looking for diverse and bicultural children's books
• Kids moving to new schools or houses
• Anyone seeking books that celebrate family heritage and individuality

“Warm and compelling, sure to have hearts soaring.” —Kirkus Reviews 
“Come for the simple but important story of strength in cultural roots, stay for the gentle magic in the pictures, bursting with color and

framing the ordinary world as something brighter, better. Immigration and individualism in one gorgeous package.”— School Library Journal

Karla Arenas Valenti was born and raised in Mexico City but has since put down roots in other places she now calls home: France, Germany, Japan, and the United States. The author of several children’s books, Karla lives and writes in the Chicago area.

Ana Ramírez González is an artist and filmmaker at Pixar Animation Studios by day and a New York Times–bestselling illustrator by night. Born and raised in Guanajuato, Mexico, Ana attended art school in France and now divides her time between San Francisco, Paris, and Guanajuato.

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