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“A beautiful story that feeds the heart and soul completely. Lila, Abuelo, and Abuela are unforgettable—the smells and tastes of this special recipe and André’s stunning illustrations bring them all to life.”

—Jenny Torres Sanchez, author of With Lots of Love

“Poetic and poignant, When We Find Her is a beautiful reminder that those we love are always with us, and that food helps us keep our connection to our family.”

—Yamile Saied Méndez, award winning author of Where Are You From? and Pockets of Love

“Timeless and beautiful, an ode to the love our abuelas wrap around us with cherished recipes.”

—Donna Barba Higuera, Newbery Medal and Pura Belpré award winning author of The Last Cuentista

When We Find Her

Written by M. García Peña
Illustrated by André Ceolin
Published by Viking Books for Young Readers

A moving portrait of the absence lost loved ones leave in our lives—and the food traditions that keep their memories from fading.

Lila and her Abuelo Carlos miss Abuela Ana. Without the sound of her laughter, the rhythm of her dancing, or the aromas of her cooking, home just isn’t the same. So Lila devises a plan to hold onto every detail she can remember. She and Abuelo will make Abuela’s signature dish—sancocho!

Off to the market they go, guided by a faded recipe that takes them through the stalls, where each ingredient sparks a warm memory. As Lila and her abuelo learn to lean on each other, Abuela’s words help them recreate a dish that tastes like love.

Primary ISBN: 9780593624098
Publication Date: September 2025
Available As: Hardcover, eBook
Picture Book, Age 04 or older

Community Represented:

Themes: , , , , , , , ,

Setting: Puerto Rico

Character's Place in the Immigration Journey: Home Country, Unknown Arrival

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

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