Precious
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- $10.99
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- $10.99
Publisher Description
The heartwarming story of a boy, all the things he holds dear, and the song that inspires him when he needs it most
Sometimes hearing a song gives you all the courage you need for a day. That’s what happens to Pedrito after a hurricane howls through his neighborhood and he has to give up his rescue dog. The moment his big brother starts strumming “Preciosa,” a beautiful song about his beautiful island, Pedrito knows that somehow everything will be okay. . . .
Pura Belpré Honor winner Carlos Aponte’s love for Puerto Rico shines through his vibrant illustrations and touching story, which show the power of music and community to comfort and give strength.
PUBLISHERS WEEKLY
Young Pedrito lives in Aguadilla, Puerto Rico, with his mother and older brother, while his father, who used to make music with them, works in the contiguous U.S. As a hurricane approaches the coastal town, the family prepares, and Pedrito observes the foreboding clouds: "It looks like a big wolf is coming." That night, the child has disturbing dreams that segue into waking life when he rescues a trapped dog. After the storm passes, the townspeople band together to clean up the wreckage, and though Pedrito is devastated when the dog's true owner appears, his mother asks him to lead the family, at twilight, in singing his father's favorite song—" ‘Preciosa,' a song about beautiful Puerto Rico." Months later, when Pedrito and his family prepare to head to the U.S. mainland, the child receives a surprise puppy, whom he names after the song. Honoring a beloved tune from Rafael Hernández Marín, Aponte (Across the Bay) crafts a resonant story that leans into themes of community care and cultural heritage; stylized digital illustrations carefully display the community and setting alongside the family's expressions. A Spanish-language edition publishes simultaneously. Includes limited lyrics from the song. Ages 3–7.
