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2025 Pura Belpré Children’s Illustration Honor Book

“This book has charming themes of family and connecting to family culture, even if it’s far away. Distance does not diminish the love of family. This is a wonderful book that will be highly relatable to many families. A must-have for any picture book collection.”

School Library Journal, Starred Review

A Maleta Full of Treasures

Written by Natalia Sylvester
Illustrated by Juana Medina
Published by Penguin Young Readers Group

It’s been three years since Abuela’s last visit, and Dulce revels in every tiny detail—from Abuela’s maletas full of candies in crinkly wrappers and gifts from primos to the sweet, earthy smell of Peru that floats out of Abuela’s room and down the hall. But Abuela’s visit can’t last forever, and all too soon she’s packing her suitcases again. Then Dulce has an idea: maybe there are things she can gather for her cousins and send with Abuela to remind them of the U.S. relatives they’ve never met. And despite having to say goodbye, Abuela has one more surprise for Dulce—something to help her remember that home isn’t just a place, but the deep-rooted love they share no matter the distance.

Look for the Spanish version, La Maleta de Tesoros.

Primary ISBN: 9780593462423
Publication Date: April 2024
Available As: Hardcover, Audiobook, eBook
Picture Book, Age 03 or older

Community Represented:

Themes: , , , , , , , , , ,

Setting: United States

Character's Place in the Immigration Journey: 1st Generation

Book Creator(s) Connection to the Community Represented: Own Voices/Lived Experience

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