Looking for Bongo

January 1, 2016
A little boy searches for his lost toy. An unnamed but adorable young boy awakens to find his beloved Bongo missing. Painterly oil illustrations show the boy looking under his covers and his bed to no avail. The opposite spread presents him standing in his pajamas and socks with an endearingly realistic questioning expression and stance. A search commences as he asks various family members (humans and pets alike) if they know Bongo's whereabouts. No one does, but particularly astute readers may discover a clue as to who is responsible for Bongo's disappearance. Spanish phrases in the dialogue are followed by their English translations in a matter-of-fact manner. Scenes such as one in which his mom combs his sister's hair lend a warm, cozy feel. In a twist, readers discover who spirited Bongo away through the protagonist's cleverness. Velasquez's portrayal of a family that is both black and Latino (a rarity in children's books) is refreshing. His clever (if not subtle) inclusion of his previous title (Grandma's Records, 2001) may lead readers to seek out that worthy story. Unfortunately, Spanish words are italicized, a decision that perhaps should have been rethought given recent debate about the exclusionary nature of the practice. Still, this simple story with a twist should have wide appeal. Darling. (glossary) (Picture book. 2-5)

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Starred review from February 1, 2016

PreS-An Afro Latino boy searches for his missing stuffed toy in this tender tribute to family, music, and childhood. The adorable narrator, depicted charmingly with a puffy Afro, protruding tummy, inquisitive eyes, and pj's, inquires after the whereabouts of his beloved Bongo. With Spanish-peppered text, the toddler asks his parents, the family pets, his Wela (abuela), and even the delivery man for help but finally finds the toy dog on his own. When his grandmother suggests that Bongo's disappearance is due to his owner's negligence, the boy comes up with a plan to figure out the mystery. Small clues sprinkled throughout will invite repeat readings, and savvy children may guess the identity of the true culprit. The warm, vibrant oil paintings illuminate in obvious and not so obvious ways the family's love of music, literature, and their African roots. Pinterest-worthy bookshelves, African art on the walls, and rhythm instruments, such as congas and bongos, are present throughout, and they offer an inviting backdrop. The mostly brown and orange palette invokes a 1970s vibe, though the story takes place in the present, and the narrator's mother's Audrey Hepburn style gives this tale, inspired by the author's own upbringing, a nostalgic undertone. Velasquez's Grandma's Records (Walker, 2001) makes a cameo during the boy's bedtime ritual. And as in that previous title, this work's celebration of the diversity within Latino culture will warm hearts. VERDICT A sweet tale recommended for diverse toddler storytimes and one-on-one sharing.-Shelley Diaz, School Library Journal

Copyright 2016 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

February 1, 2016
Preschool-K From the cover illustration of a boy on his knees, peeking around the corner with big, questioning eyes, mystery is inherent here. Special toy Bongo is missing, and his owner wants him back. He asks his abuela, the cat, the dog, and his father, and even interrupts his sister's hair teasing, but no one has seen the missing Bongo, now suspected to be stolen. Velasquez's text is a simple mix of English and easily decipherable Spanish, although a glossary at the end confirms translations. The illustrations of the narrator's quest are active, consisting of many gestures and close-up facial expressions, and the colors are warm creams, blues, and oranges. Home life is multigenerational and loving. The culprit, who is finally caught at the end, is a believable thief and makes this family all the more realistic. Pair with Where's Mommy? (2014), by Beverly Donofrio, for another story of lost and found.(Reprinted with permission of Booklist, copyright 2016, American Library Association.)