Back of Book:
Ava Gabriela is visiting her extended family in Colombia for the holidays. She’s excited to take part in family traditions such as making bunuelos, but being around all her loud relatives in an unfamiliar place makes Ava shy and quiet. How will Ava find her voice before she misses out on all the New Year’s fun?
My Review:
I received a copy of this picture book from Albert Whitman Publishing in exchange for an honest review.
“Feliz New Year, Ava Gabbiela!” by Alexandra Alessandri is a terrific own voice story that follows a young girl as she celebrates the new year with her extended family in Colombia. Ava is shy around all her family and feels like her words keep getting stuck in her mouth. Ava begins to participate in the events like making an Old Year doll and eating grapes for good luck. She finds her voice just in time to celebrate the new year. The text is written with a sprinkle of Spanish words that allows readers a glimpse into Colombian culture. The back of the book has a glossary, as well as more information about the excitement of celebrating the new year. The illustrations by Addy Rivera Sonda are bright, and allow readers to feel like they are celebrating along with Ava and her family. “Feliz New Year, Ava Gabbiela!” is a wonderful diverse picture book that should be in every home and classroom library.
32 Pages
Ages 5 and up
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