Mónica Mancillas

Mariana is visiting her abuelita and extended family in Mexico for the first time. Her tummy does a flip as she and Mami cross the frontera. There are all new sights, smells, and sounds. And at Abuelita's house, Mariana is overwhelmed by new faces and Spanish phrases she doesn't understand. But with a story, some kindness, and a few new words from Abuelita, Mariana discovers that the love of family knows no cultural divide.

Mexican American boy Sami loves combining Spanish and English to make Spanglish and is eager to share his language and joy with his skeptical Abuela and his vibrant community.