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2025 Pura Belpré Children’s Illustration Award

“A child seemingly separated from his parents cultivates dreams for himself and others in this heart-tugging intergenerational picture book from Verdad. When Miguel Ángel and his grandfather, Abuelito, prepare for their day, they chat about the coins they’ve saved in a jar “to buy an airplane… one with two seats so you can fly with me.” Before heading to the beach to sell their wares—cold coconuts and dream catchers—young Miguel notes how the work of weaving makes him feel close to his parents. … En route, Miguel wonders whether the dream catchers help people secure their varied hopes. Asked whether dreams come true, Abuelito lovingly but realistically responds: “Not always…. But if your heart and actions walk the same path, good things can happen.””
–Publishers Weekly

The Dream Catcher

Written by Marcelo Verdad
Illustrated by Marcelo Verdad
Published by Little, Brown Books for Young Readers

Some people dream of perfect waves, fancy castles, or piloting a plane. Others dream of someone to laugh and play with all day long. Some just dream of having a meal for the next day.

And little Miguel? As he and Abuelito work in the hot Oaxacan sun, selling cold coconuts and macrame dream catchers to earn a few coins, Miguel has only one simple wish—to have his parents by his side. But how can he keep the faith when the truth is that dreams don’t always come to pass?

Look for the Spanish version, El Atrapasueños.

Primary ISBN: 9780316330664
Publication Date: May 2024
Available As: Hardcover
Picture Book, Age 04 or older

Community Represented:

Themes: , , , , , , , ,

Setting: Mexico (Oaxaca)

Character's Place in the Immigration Journey: Home Country

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

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