Amor de Abuelita: Book Review - Bilingually Yours

Disclaimer: I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. This post also contains affiliate links.

Amor de abuelita by Misty Black book cover

Amor de abuelita by Misty Black is a heartwarming story that honors the relationship between grandmother and grandchild —and it’s a timely read-aloud for Spanish teachers, bilingual parents, and bilingual grandparents alike.

Follow Koala and Abuelita as they spend quality time baking pies, building blanket forts, and reading (and cuddling) together. While Abuelo makes an appearance, it’s interesting to see Koala and Abuelita’s strong bond take center stage. Kids will have fun reading about all the things the pair does together —right up until it’s time to go and a teary-eyed Koala and Abuelita must say their goodbyes. (A touching moment I particularly loved.)

There are a few things lost in translation from its original English version to Spanish. (The English edition is written in a lyrical rhyming text, whereas the Spanish version is not.) But there is sincerity in Koala and Abuelita’s relationship that kids will easily connect with. Plus, the illustrations add a layer of detail to each one of their moments together. It makes Amor de abuelita a great addition to any school or home library.

The book comes with several activities at the end of the story to keep kids reflecting on their family and their grandparents. Resources include a letter-writing template, a family tree, and a list of questions kids can ask to learn more about their families.

Given the pandemic, and how many kids and grandparents have had to stay socially distanced, it makes the story all the more relevant and bittersweet.

Amor de abuelita is intended for kids aged three to eight. The activities at the end of the book make it a worthwhile title for teachers. But most of all, it makes for a touching gift for grandparents.

Amor de abuelita is available on Amazon in Spanish and Englishttps://amzn.to/3HOYOL5h.