Common Sense Media Review
By Regan McMahon
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Boy dreams of buying an airplane in sweet, gentle tale.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 4+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Read
Parent and Kid Reviews
What's the Story?
THE DREAM CATCHER begins with little Miguel being woken up by Abuelito, his grandfather. "It's time for work," Abuelito says. Soon they're off to the beach to sell Abuelito's cold coconuts and Miguel's dream catchers, which his mom taught him how to weave. Miguel is saving up his coins to buy an airplane, presumably to reunite with his missing parents. It's never explained where his parents are, but he clearly misses them. "My dream catchers make me feel close to Mom and Dad," he says. As they walk home, Miguel asks, "Abuelito, do you think my dream catchers can help people catch their dreams?" Abuelito answers, "Perhaps, mijo, if the dreamer believes."
Is It Any Good?
This gentle, wistful story of a simple outing to sell goods on the beach shows the loving bond between grandfather and grandson. When Miguel and his grandfather talk about the different kinds of dreams people have, Abuelito says that "some dream of someone they miss, and of seeing them again."
A sense of longing lingers over The Dream Catcher, but so does Abuelito's loving assurance that enjoying the moment can be enough: "Selling my cold coconuts next to you and seeing you smile is all I dream of. I like it here and now because we're together." Author-illustrator Marcelo Verdad's childlike acrylic, paper, and digital collage illustrations set the perfect, playful tone for the characters' special relationship.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about hopes and dreams in The Dream Catcher. Why do you think Miguel dreams of buying an airplane? What are some of your dreams for the future?
Miguel and his Abuelito are close and model good communication. Do you have a grandparent or other caregiver you're close to? What do you like to do together?
Miguel misses his parents. Where do you think they are? Do you know what it feels like to miss someone? Is there someone you miss?
Book Details
- Author :
- Illustrator : Marcelo Verdad
- Genre : Picture Book
- Character Strengths : Communication , Curiosity , Gratitude , Perseverance
- Book type : Fiction
- Publisher : Little, Brown Books for Young Readers
- Publication date : May 14, 2024
- Publisher's recommended age(s) : 4 - 8
- Number of pages : 40
- Available on : Hardback
- Awards : Common Sense Selection , Pura Belpré Awards and Honors
- Last updated : April 28, 2025
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