Purchase to Support Our Program

“In this endearing story about facing insecurities and building confidence when trying a new language, Max loves to spend Sundays with Abuela baking, with the help of her pet parrot, Lorito. Abuela and Lorito speak Spanish, but Max doesn’t—he struggles with pronunciation, particularly rolling his r’s. …He doesn’t do it perfectly, but trying is what’s important! Galotta’s colorful artwork nicely pairs the story about self-consciousness and finding courage in the face of insecurity. Children in bilingual families who struggle with a language divide will particularly appreciate this cheerful, sweet story, which closes with a recipe for rice pudding.”

– Booklist

Squawk of Spanish

Written by Gabriella Aldeman
Illustrated by Romina Galotta
Published by Charlesbridge

Max isn’t confident with his Spanish, especially rolling his Rs, and his cousins always tease him about it. But he loves spending weekends baking with his Spanish-speaking abuela, while Lorito the parrot helps translate.

But when Lorito disappears for a day, Max and Abuela must figure out how to communicate. Max’s Spanish doesn’t have to be perfect, and Abuela can attempt a little English. Trying is what counts!

Look for the Spanish version, Un Graznido en Español.

Primary ISBN: 9781623543921
Publication Date: August 2024
Available As: Hardcover, eBook
Picture Book, Age 05 or older

Community Represented:

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

Setting: United States

Character's Place in the Immigration Journey: 2nd Generation

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

Click here for details about how we define our titles.

Engagement Projects & Resources:

Share your favorite resources for this book with info@imyourneighborbooks.org.

Engagement Materials:

Activity Sheets

Make Your Own Lorito Parrot Puppet

Source: Charlesbridge