My Abuelita (by Tony Johnston)

This is a book readers will want to share over and over. If the mystery, story, and message aren't enough to keep kids intrigued, the artwork is. Every page is a feast for the eyes, full of color, detail, and something unusual. The background of each page is a vivid red, blue, purple, or some other bright, energetic color. Every one is different and exciting. Abuelita's outfits are fanciful, whether she is wrapped in a yellow and black striped towel, a pink fuzzy robe or a flowery gown with bright red shoes and a "scarf like a cloud"  that flows to the ground. 

Other amazing details highlighted with the flowers and patterns of Mexican folk art, and the friendly clay figures with their shining eyes and pudgy cheeks, create such a rich, friendly, warm tone that makes this book feel more like a friend than simply a story. 

The artwork in this book is unique, and as playful as the story. Using clay, wire, felting wool, fabric, metals, Mexican crafts, and acrylic paints, the artist creates a warm and wonderful world full of color, excitement, and happiness. It's easy to see why it won the Pura Belpre Illustrator Honor.