Yamile Saied Méndez

This exceptional and powerful anthology explores the joys, heartbreaks and triumphs of immigration, with stories by critically acclaimed and bestselling YA authors who are shaped by the journeys they and their families have taken from home—and to find home. WELCOMEFrom some of the most exciting bestselling and up-and-coming YA authors writing today…journey from Ecuador to New York City and Argentina to Utah…from Australia to Harlem and India to New Jersey…from Fiji, America, Mexico and more… Come On In. With characters who face random traffic stops, TSA detention, customs anxiety, and the daunting and inspiring journey to new lands…who camp with their extended families, dance at weddings, keep diaries, teach ESL…who give up their rooms for displaced family, decide their own answer to the question “where are you from?” and so much more… Come On In illuminates fifteen of the myriad facets of the immigrant experience, from authors who have been shaped by the journeys they and their families have taken from home—and to find home.

Few campers at Camp Apple Hill Farm have found the mysterious cabin rumored to be hidden deep in the woods--but those who have whisper of a mysterious woman who tells tales of horrors beyond imagination. Are you brave enough to visit Cabin 23? When Gen Far as's brother, Lorenzo, is arrested, everything changes. Gen's neighbors look at him and his family with suspicion, his parents are distraught, and no one will tell Gen what's happening. But the worst part is what only Gen knows: It's all his fault. If he hadn't forgotten to leave their bedroom window unlatched the night of Lorenzo's arrest, maybe his brother would have never been caught. Guilt haunts Gen--guilt, and a terrifying shadow that crouches each night on the tree branch outside his window, watching him with penetrating eyes. Gen's parents decide to move to Los Astros, a beautiful village nestled in the mountains, to try to regain some sense of normalcy. But Los Astros, Gen soon discovers, is no ordinary town. There are creepy wicker figures on every lawn and strange stories of children who go missing. Beneath its idyllic facade, Los Astros has a secret--one Gen must uncover if he doesn't want to go missing himself. And don't miss the other books in the hit Tales from Cabin 23 series: The Boo Hag Flex and Night of the Living Head

Silver Medalist for Bank Street College of Education's Best Spanish Language Picture Books of the Year Named one of Kirkus Reviews Best Books of 2019 Named one of New York Public Library's Top Ten Los Mejores Libros para Peque os list Named one of New York Public Library's Best Books for Kids 2019 "An ideal vehicle for readers to ponder and discuss their own identities."-- Kirkus (starred review)Este resonante libro ilustrado cuenta la historia de una ni a a la que constantemente se le hace una pregunta simple que no tiene una respuesta simple. Un excelente tema de conversaci n en el hogar o en el aula: un libro para compartir, en el esp ritu de I Am Enough por Grace Byers y Keturah A. Bobo. Cuando se le pregunta a una chica de d nde es, de d nde es realmente, ninguna de sus respuestas parece ser la correcta. Sin estar segura de c mo responder, se dirige a su abuelo amoroso en busca de ayuda. l no le da la respuesta que ella espera. Le da una a n mejor. De donde soy? Eres de huracanes y tormentas oscuras, y de una ranita cuyo canto llama a los isle os para que vuelvan a casa cuando el sol se va a dormir.... Con temas de autoaceptaci n, identidad y hogar, este poderoso y l rico libro de im genes resonar con lectores j venes y viejos, de todos los or genes y de todos los colores, especialmente cualquiera que haya sentido que no pertenecen. Tambi n disponible en ingl s: Where Are You From?

From the award-winning author of Furia--two brothers struggle against a totalitarian regime in this historical YA about fighting for what you believe in, even when the world around you tries to silence your voice. In 1976 Rosario, Argentina, brothers Daniel and Adri n Aguirre share a passion for music and a bond as best friends. However, under the authoritarian military government, artists and musicians are considered enemies of the state, even if they're just teenagers playing at home. When one of their songs unexpectedly gains popularity on the radio, Daniel and Adri n, along with their band R o Babel--comprised of children of immigrants from Spain, Palestine, and Germany--face a daunting choice. They must decide whether to pursue their dream of becoming musicians or to remain silent to protect their families. Ready to challenge the military regime, their resolve is tested when one of their own goes missing. This novel delves into the power of music in the fight for a better tomorrow, making it a compelling read for those who appreciate stories of courage, family, and the enduring spirit of resistance against a totalitarian regime.

A powerful story about family, f tbol, and playing like a girl, perfect for fans of Front Desk, The Academy, and, Are You There God? It's Me, Margaret from the award-winning author of Furia. At twelve years old, Valeria "Magic" Salom n is already the best soccer player her town has ever seen. She has talent in spades and an abuelo whose tough-love coaching and lessons about "strength and honor" have made her the star of the Overlords, the top boys' team in the state. Then everything changes at the State Cup semifinal. After an embarrassing moment on the field, Valeria's team is unexpectedly eliminated and everyone who used to treat her as their secret weapon now sees her as their weakest link. Soon, she doesn't have a team at all anymore. She's not sure she has a relationship with her grandfather either. Valeria's a fighter, however. With the help of her grandmother and support of her cheerleader BFF, she finds herself on a girls' team for the first time. But the Amazons aren't exactly excited to have her there. After all, Valeria's spent years ignoring their existence. With the next tournament looming on the horizon, Valeria has a month to figure out her place on her new team and learn how to play like a girl. The award-winning author of Furia returns to the world of "the beautiful game" in this uplifting, heartfelt novel about family, self-confidence, and the power of second chances.

What happens when you fall hard for your fallback? In this luminous love story, a young woman who's spent years traveling the globe to outrun her own grief faces a momentous decision on her 33rd birthday... A moving story about wanderlust, loss, hope, and the special magic of finding love in unexpected places--at just the right time - for readers of Elena Armas, Emily Henry and Mia Sosa, from the acclaimed author of the Reese Witherspoon YA Book Club Pick Furia. All Stevie Choi ever wanted was a cozy life in suburbia--a loving husband, adorable kids, a dog. That simple dream shattered into a million pieces when she was only seventeen. She's spent the years since trying to outrun the pain and make something of herself, if only to prove to her estranged family that she's happy and successful--even though she's secretly yearning for another chance at love. If only she believed she deserved it . . . So, Stevie drowns herself in her job, and in the low season, "dates" new countries, leaving her Utah home-base to circle the globe, from Paris to Cairo to Cabo San Lucas, curating a gorgeous Instagram feed--while spending every New Year alone. Then one frigid January day in Rome she meets Cristian. He would be her perfect match--if they weren't separated by continents and obligations. Unable to say goodbye, they agree that if they're both single at seventy, they'll marry each other if only to have a fun companion to travel with. . . . But through the years, their friendship grows into something more, and suddenly it's up to Stevie to choose happiness . . . Sparkling with hope, All Roads Lead to Rome soulfully examines all the ways a tender heart can be broken--and how faith in the future--and in oneself--can make it whole again . . .

After a panic attack prevents Florencia from performing as Clara in The Nutcracker and her best friend takes the lead, a new dance style helps her face her anxiety as well as a troubled friendship. Ballet is Florencia del Lago's entire world. After years of hard work, she is chosen as Clara in the winter production of The Nutcracker. Not only is she the youngest dancer to receive such an honor but also the first Latina. She's on track to be recruited by the best ballet companies. Unfortunately, she suffers a panic attack on opening night--on stage, in front of everyone. And then Selena, Florencia's best friend, steps right into the role to replace her. Just like that, Florencia's whole world falls apart--the ballet studio expels her, and her best friend turns on her, tormenting her on social media and in real life. But even though the one thing she was driven toward has come to an end, therapy and family support help Florencia open up to new experiences. She notices people at school she's never paid attention to before, and she even stumbles upon an Irish dance school and decides to give it a try. Can a new passion for Irish dance help Florencia find the joy of performing on the stage that she lost that fateful winter night?

Cuando un ataque de panico impide que Florencia act e como Clara en El Cascanueces y su mejor amiga act a como Clara en lugar de ella, un nuevo estilo de baile la ayuda a enfrentar su ansiedad y una amistad problem tica. After a panic attack prevents Florencia from performing as Clara in The Nutcracker and her best friends takes the lead, a new dance style helps her face her anxiety as well as a troubled friendship. El ballet lo es todo para Florencia del Lago. Despu s de a os de arduo trabajo, es seleccionada como Clara en la producci n invernal de El Cascanueces. No s lo es la bailarina m s joven en recibir tal honor sino tambi n la primera latina. Est en camino de ser contratada por las mejores compa as de ballet. Desafortunadamente, la noche del estreno, sufre un ataque de p nico-- en el escenario, delante de todos. Y luego Selena, su mejor amiga, la reemplaza como Clara. As , se desmorona su mundo entero-- el estudio de ballet la expulsa, y su mejor amiga se vuelve contra ella, atorment ndola en las redes sociales y en la vida real. Pero a pesar de que algo que ella amaba lleg a su fin, la terapia y el apoyo familiar la ayudan a abrirse a nuevas experiencias. Forma una amistad con dos chicos de la escuela a los que nunca les hab a prestado atenci n, e incluso se encuentra con una escuela de danza irlandesa y decide intentar aprender esta nueva forma de arte. Podr una nueva pasi n por la danza irlandesa ayudarla a encontrar la alegr a de bailar en el escenario que perdi aquella noche de invierno? Ballet is Florencia del Lago's entire world. After years of hard work, she is chosen as Clara in the winter production of The Nutcracker. Not only is she the youngest dancer to receive such an honor but also the first Latina. She's on track to be recruited by the best ballet companies. Unfortunately, she suffers a panic attack on opening night--on stage, in front of everyone. And then Selena, Florencia's best friend, steps right into the role to replace her. Just like that, Florencia's whole world falls apart--the ballet studio expels her, and her best friend turns on her, tormenting her on social media and in real life. But even though the one thing she was driven toward has come to an end, therapy and family support help Florencia open up to new experiences. She notices people at school she's never paid attention to before, and she even stumbles upon an Irish dance school and decides to give it a try. Can a new passion for Irish dance help Florencia find the joy of performing on the stage that she lost that fateful winter night?

Perfect for fans of The Proudest Blue and Alma and How She Got Her Name -- a warm tale about celebrating sisterly love, family, and quincea eras by Pura Belpr winner, Yamile Saied M ndez Two sisters, Ellie and Isabella, have been dreaming of Isabella's quincea era for months and now the day is finally here. The house is bustling with preparations for the party and Ellie is determined to help make her big sister's day as special as possible. But making flower arrangements is harder than Ellie expected and decorating the cake almost ends in disaster Will Ellie be able to do something special for Isabella before the party is over? Award-winning author Yamile Saied M ndez has crafted a beautiful ode to sisterly love and the magic of quincea eras. Acclaimed illustrator Christine Almeda's bright and colorful art brings a lively energy to this sweet story.

A heartwarming story about grief and new beginnings, by Pura Belpr Award-winning author Yamile Saied M ndez. THE TROUBLE WITH SUNSHINE IS IT COMES EVEN IF YOU THINK YOU DON'T DESERVE IT. Dorani's mom, Isa, taught her to be bold and challenge the rules if they don't seem fair. People are more important than rules. But she never taught Dorani how to do it all without her. So, when Isa dies on the way to speak with the principal about Dori's latest revolution, Dori loses her voice. Her grief and guilt become the loudest parts of her. Moving from vibrant Miami to quiet, middle-of-nowhere Wyoming with her aunt feels like the punishment she deserves. She spends most of her time with their newest horse, Sunshine. Sunshine was involved in an accident that's left her skittish and hard to care for. Tia Ivette knows her behavior comes from fear, and she is trying everything to make Sunshine brave again. But Dori knows grief can feel like fear... and grief is just love with no place to go. Speaking up for Sunshine reminds Dori that the very best parts of her mother live on through her, and so when she starts to notice that the rules at her new school unfairly target specific students, she knows just what her mother would do...

Timed for Mother's Day, this touching, inclusive picture book celebrates the beautiful grandmother and grandchild relationships from iconic Disney and Pixar films. From Pura Belpr winning author Yamile Saeid M ndez comes a beautiful and inclusive picture book that celebrates the special relationships between Disney kids and their grandmas. From Gramma Tala inspiring Moana to turn her fears into courage, to Abuela Alma recognizing what makes Mirabel special, each spread will remind readers of all the amazing things grandmas can do--and how, even though every grandma is unique, they're all magic in their own ways. With gorgeous illustrations from Minji Kim, this picture book is the perfect gift for families to share on Mother's Day or all year round

Sweet or savory. Fried or baked. Little pockets filled with love and a taste from home. Grandma Monona always made the best empanadas for Mami's birthday. But this year Monona is in heaven and Mami is sad. Her birthday won't be the same without Monona. Star and Sebi know they need a special birthday surprise to cheer up Mami. Maybe they can make Mami Monona's empanadas themselves But will they be able to capture the same magic as Monona's empanadas if they don't know her secret ingredient? From Yamile Saied M ndez (acclaimed author of Where Are You From? and What Will You Be?) and Sara Palacios comes a moving and heartfelt picture book about the ways in which we carry those we've lost with us always--in pockets of love.

The first in a must-read middle grade series from Girl Scouts of the USA about a group of fifth graders with lots of courage, confidence, and character who make the world a better place. This novel written by award-winning author Yamile Saied M ndez is perfect for readers who love The Baby-Sitters Club and American Girl's Girl of the Year series. Maven wants to be known for something great. She had been nervous about starting fifth grade after spending all summer with her little brother and baby cousins. So when her fifth-grade teacher announces a district-wide robotics competition, she jumps at the opportunity to be the class's leader. Being in charge is better and cooler than playing make-believe, right? Many people doubt her, especially the boys in her class, but with the support of her friends and Girl Scout troop, Maven is determined to prove them wrong. Then she goes overboard with her dedication to the competition, and she seems to be disappointing everyone--including herself. She begins to realize maybe being herself is what she needed to do all along. Look out for more incredible middle grade books from Girl Scouts: The Ultimate Friendship Journal coming March 2025Anika and the Great Dog Rescue, the second book in this Girl Scout Novel series, coming May 2025Take Action: You Can Make the World a Better Place coming Fall 2025

How far would you search for the soulmate of your dreams? Brimming with the magic of old San Juan and la Isla del Encanto, this charmingly romantic new novel from Yamile Saied Mendez, acclaimed author of Twice a Quincea era, is the perfect read for anyone who has longed for a legendary love story that transcends time and distance--and the powerful magic of steering their own dreams. Fans of Emily Henry and Elena Armas will fall for this fresh take on the soulmate trope set against the vivid beauty of Puerto Rico. Madi Ram rez has it all--a thriving career she loves, a successful boyfriend, and a wedding to plan--when he finally proposes. So why does she feel like there is something missing? Jayden even has the right initials--the JR that appeared to Madi years ago, in a dream visitation from her beloved, wise abuela. Madi's friends think her expectations are too high--but she can't help wishing for that dreamy feeling in real-life. Wishing that Jayden would show her a little more affection. That she could really believe they were meant to be . . . When a business trip to Puerto Rico presents itself, Madi is quick to take it. She can finally scatter her abuela's ashes on the beach, as she wished. And maybe time apart will remind Jayden how much Madi means to him--and maybe he'll begin to show it. But in Puerto Rico, Madi finds something--well, someone--else. A man who makes her heart beat triple-time--and who feels as right as someone Fated--except for those nagging initials . . . "Love of My Lives is a lush, vibrant and enchanting story. Escape into the magic of a love destined to be... You won't regret it." --Jayci Lee, author of Booked on a Feeling

Welcome to Paradise Ranch, where everyone can get a second chance. Carolina Aguasvivas se crio en el Rancho Para so y conoce a todos los animales del lugar. Sin embargo, las cosas parecen cambiar cuando aparece Chelsie S nchez, la hija de la nueva due a, quien tiene una actitud arrogante y es due a de una en rgica purasangre llamada Terciopelo. La yegua es asustadiza, testaruda y tiene una pata lastimada, pero Carolina est decidida a montarla. Chelsie, quien no se quiere rebajar a limpiar la caballeriza, no parece ser una verdadera amante de los caballos, mientras que Caro piensa que ella es la nica que puede ayudar a Terciopelo a recuperarse; adem s de querer demostrarlo, cueste lo que cueste. Carolina Aguasvivas grew up on Paradise Ranch, which she knows down to every last pony. But things are sure to change when the new owner's daughter, Chelsie S nchez, sweeps in with an attitude and a feisty Thoroughbred named Velvet. The mare is skittish, headstrong, and hurt -- and Carolina is determined to ride her. Chelsie, who considers herself too good to clean stalls, certainly doesn't seem like a real horse girl. Caro knows she's the only one who can help Velvet recover, and she's ready to prove it -- no matter what it takes.

Trouble in Paradise? In this second installment of Horse Country, critically acclaimed author Yamile Saied Méndez welcomes readers back to the ranch. Carolina's hope of opening up Paradise Ranch to everyone is coming true: the Unbridled Dreams program is ready to welcome its first sponsored student! Gisella Bassi seems like the perfect fit -- on paper, that is. When she arrives at Paradise Ranch, she's not as excited as everyone expects. She might even be... scared of the horses? But if their first student isn't a success, there's no way the program will continue. Can Caro and her new friend, Chelsie, agree on how to rope Gisella in? Perfect follow up for fans of Can't be Tamed Endearing tale of resistance Great book for young animals lovers!

Pura Belpré Award winner Yamile Saied Méndez welcomes readers back to the ranch in the fourth installment of Horse Country! Carolina Aguasvivas's oldest friend, Vida Jones Castillo, has never been interested in riding horses -- until now! Carolina is thrilled for her BFF to join Paradise Ranch, along with new sponsorship student Brielle Stuart. The barn is a full, happy house! But the girls' perfect summer falls apart when they find out that one of the horses might be sold -- Carolina's favorite riding buddy, Shadow. Can Carolina and her friends save her beloved horse... and the future of the Unbridled Dreams program? Check out the first two books in the series, Can't be Tamed, Friends Like These and Where There's Smoke Endearing tale of resistance, friendship and the support of a tight-knit community Great book for young animals lovers!

Welcome back to Paradise Ranch, where everyone can get a second chance, in this third installment of the Horse Country series by Pura Belpr Award-winning author Yamile Saied Mndez. Carolina Aguasvivas knows just what to do with Paradise Ranch's new sponsored student, Rockwell Richards. He's clearly a perfect match for a gentle giant of a horse named Napoleon, as they both have mysterious pasts. Carolina can't wait to learn everything she can about the cute and thoughtful new boy...but Rockwell doesn't seem to appreciate her snooping -- or admiration. When the barn is threatened by local wildfires, can he and Caro put everything aside and help keep the horses safe? Check out the first two books in the series, Can't be Tamed and Friends Like These Endearing tale of resistance, friendship and the support of a tight-knit community Great book for young animals lovers!