Where Are You From?

This charmingly illustrated, thoughtfully written picture book offers a gentle wayfor the youngest readers to explore the complexities of identity. The story in Where Are You From? expands the idea of "origins" beyond a physical location to include the people, the natural world, and the history of a place and culture we are from. Most kids will relate to feeling left out, as well as finding comfort with a loving relative. The story encourages self-awareness, empathy, and family relationships.

The language verges on the poetic, with tender renderings of setting and history. There are soothingly illustrated pictures of a sunset walk, moving from the pastels of early evening to warm golds and oranges to the deep blues of night. Abuelo and the little girl are often visually small on the page, giving the feel of just how expansive a person's identity can be. Where Are You From? is like a window and a mirror: It allows young readers who haven't explored their backgrounds to look into lives that may not be like their own, and it reflects and affirms the experiences of kids who are not always accepted because of the way they look or speak. Overall, it's a great pick for families interested in exploring cultural identity with younger kids.