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Books del Sur curates Latin America Spanish-language literature to support dual language curriculum.

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La Casita de Esperanza

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La Casita de Esperanza, de Terry Catasús Jennings, ilustrada por Raúl Colón, es un libro ilustrado bilingüe que narra la historia semiautobiográfica de una familia cubana que construye una nueva vida en Estados Unidos. Cuando Esperanza y su familia se mudan a una casa pequeña y deteriorada, la transforman en un espacio acogedor, no solo para ellos, sino también para otras familias inmigrantes que buscan consuelo y comunidad. Gracias al trabajo arduo, la generosidad y las experiencias compartidas, la casita se convierte en un símbolo de esperanza y pertenencia. Con un texto poético en español e ilustraciones cálidas y expresivas, el libro celebra la resiliencia, el orgullo cultural y el poder de ayudar a los demás, convirtiéndolo en un recurso emotivo para las aulas bilingües que exploran temas de migración y solidaridad.

Recognition / Reconocimiento

Un Mejor Libro Ilustrado Infantil del Año según Bank Street en español

Una selección del Junior Library Guild

Un Mejor Libro del Año de la Biblioteca Pública de Nueva York

“Colón’s signature watercolor and colored pencil illustrations start by portraying the uncertainty of a new place with a gray, almost stormy sky over unfamiliar surroundings, then transition to scenes of a loving family, a warm home, sunny outdoor moments, and the hopes and dreams of those striving for a better life despite challenges. The poetic Spanish text (an English edition, The Little House of Hope, is also available) skillfully conveys these hopes and fears in a way that is accessible to young readers. A wonderful choice that honestly depicts both the struggles and triumphs of families working hard for a brighter future.”—School Library Journal

English Description:

La Casita de Esperanza by Terry Catasús Jennings, illustrated by Raúl Colón, is a bilingual picture book that tells the semi-autobiographical story of a Cuban family building a new life in the United States. When Esperanza and her family move into a small, worn-down house, they transform it into a welcoming space—not just for themselves, but for other immigrant families seeking comfort and community. Through hard work, generosity, and shared experiences, the casita becomes a symbol of hope and belonging. With poetic Spanish text and warm, expressive illustrations, the book celebrates resilience, cultural pride, and the power of helping others, making it a heartfelt resource for bilingual classrooms exploring themes of migration and solidarity.

Recognition / Reconocimiento

A Best Illustrated Children's Book of the Year according to Bank Street in Spanish

A Junior Library Guild Selection

A Best Book of the Year from the New York Public Library

“Colón’s trademark watercolor and color pencil illustrations begin by showing the uncertainty of a new place with a gray, almost stormy sky as the backdrop to the unfamiliar, and then move on to depict a loving family, warm home, sunny outdoors, and the hopes and dreams of many who face difficulties in their attempts at a better life. The poetic Spanish text (an English edition,The Little House of Hope, is also available) deftly conveys these hopes and fears in a accessible way to young readers. A great selection that honestly presents the hardships and the victories of families working hard for a bright future.”—School Library Journal

Publishing Details

Author : Terry Catasús Jennings

Illustrator : Raúl Colón

Author Nationality : Cuba

Type of Spanish : Translated

Physical Details

Type of Book: Picture

Cover: Hardcover

Pages: 32

Size: 8.33 x 0.35 x 11.25 in

Year Published: 2022

Instructional Details

Reading Grade Level: 2nd

Genre: Fiction

Sub-Genre: Fiction

Theme: About POC, Change, Community, Culture, Equality, Family, Identity, Social Emotional, Immigration, Migration