A Sled for Gabo

October 15, 2020
Waking up on a cold winter morning to fresh snow makes little Gabo wish for nothing more than a sled...and maybe a new friend. Gabo walks into the kitchen to the familiar sounds of the old steam radiator whistling and a can in a saucepan on the stove, bouncing as the water boils, when he sees children from his new school sledding outside. Gabo very much wants to join them, but his hat is too small, his socks are cotton (not wool), and his shoes are not waterproof. And he doesn't have a sled. Gabo's mom helps out, and with his dad's hat, four pairs of socks, and plastic bags over his sneakers, he is ready to go outside. Gabo comes across different neighbors and family members in his community, and eventually he makes a new friend who is good at thinking outside the box and teaches him that a cafeteria tray can be a sled with a little imagination. This sweet story centers a Latinx family and touches on issues of poverty. Spanish words and phrases are scattered throughout, accessible to non-Spanish speakers through context, though some touches (such as the dulce de leche Gabo enjoys with his new friend at the end of the day) are left unexplained for readers familiar with the culture to savor. The illustrations are bright and cheerful, making everything stand out nicely against the snowy day. Big expressions on Gabo's face will be easy for young kids to identify and relate to what he is feeling across his journey. (This book was reviewed digitally with 8-by-18-inch double-page spreads viewed at 48.5% of actual size.) A charming winter story about friendship and making do with love. (Picture book. 4-8)

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January 1, 2021
Preschool-Grade 1 This Spanish-infused picture book, with vibrant illustrations by Gonz�lez that will warm up any winter day, follows Latinx Gabo as he tries to make new friends after it snows in his neighborhood. The charming narrative pairs seamlessly with the colorfully detailed art, which utilizes a bright palette, conjuring up the feeling of sunshine upon a new snowfall. Gabo, not having winter gear or clothing--and, worst of all, no sled--is shy about approaching the other children, but, with some encouragement from friendly neighbors, help from his Mami, and unexpected gifts, he learns that being creative and openminded can lead to new friendships and an unforgettable day outside. Otheguy's dialogue, mixing Spanish and English, captures the tentativeness and reluctance of many children, like Gabo, to try something new and put themselves out there, while the illustrations offer a nostalgic take on winter playdates and the brilliance of childhood. In the end, after a long day of playing, Gabo looks forward to sharing some sweet treats with new friends.

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April 1, 2021

PreS-Gr 1-Winter adventures await Gabo just outside the frosted glass of his kitchen window, but his socks are only cotton, his cap is too small, and he has no sled for coasting down the hills with the other kids. Some quick ingenuity from his mother amends his wardrobe, but the boy is still without a sled. A handful of visits from neighbors, relatives, and new friends show Gabo that it's not about what he doesn't have, but what he can do with the things he has. The concurrent conflicts of Gabo's shyness and his hunt for a sled duel for reader attention, but Otheguy's unhurried, lyrical approach to the story's central problems are of a piece with the message that life is constantly presenting opportunities for happiness, if you know how to look for them. The book's setting, a snowbound neighborhood populated by Hispanic characters who naturally shift between English and Spanish, is a unique and welcoming locale. Gonzalez's artwork possesses a sunny palette that will put readers in mind of Karen Katz and Pat Hutchins, and the warm, pleasing note that the book ends on is sure to attract fans of that duo's work. VERDICT A distinct mise-en-sc�ne paired with a toasty, traditional message distinguishes this story of snowy self-discovery.-Jose Cruz, Shannon Staub P.L., North Port, FL

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