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“This book gently explores the idea of second-language acquisition, children who translate for others, and code switching, suggesting patience with those who learn at different speeds. . . . Colorful, happy digitally rendered illustrations show the closeness between girl and dog, and Nena’s friendly, affectionate nature.”
—The Horn Book

My Dog Just Speaks Spanish

Written by Andrea Caceres
Illustrated by Andrea Caceres
Published by Candlewick Press

When Aurora came to the United States, she learned to speak English. But her spaniel, Nena, did not. Sweet Nena loves to give besos, and she knows only Spanish. She doesn’t know SIT, but she does know SIÉNTATE. She doesn’t know WAIT, but she does know ESPERA. And while TREAT doesn’t mean anything to Nena, she can certainly sniff out a POSTRE! At the park, Nena may not know what the other dog owners are saying, but she and Aurora will always understand each other just fine. Borrowing from her lived experience, Venezuelan-American author-illustrator Andrea Cáceres offers a gentle, charmingly illustrated ode to love that extends a hand—or a paw—to readers who may feel displaced or are learning a new language themselves.

Look for the Spanish version, Mi perro solo habla español.

Primary ISBN: 9781536222784
Publication Date: May 2023
Available As: Hardcover, eBook
Picture Book, Age 02 or older

Community Represented:

Themes: , ,

Setting: United States

Character's Place in the Immigration Journey: Immigrant

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

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