If You Ever Need a Friend: An Alebrije Story by Nadine Fonseca Author, Lourdes Villagómez illustrator

 

Joaquin is having a hard day at school. He struggles to speak up in class even though he knows the answers, he doesn’t feel included when trying to play soccer with his friends, and he ends up sitting alone during recess—feeling invisible.

But when he investigates a strange shimmery light by the playground slide, he is transported to a special forest filled with fantastical creatures known as alebrijes, or magic companion animals.

His friend, Imogen, introduces Joaquin to several alebrijes, and the special creatures share the ways they help people manage their emotions. One creature roars like a lion with Imogen when she feels angry and needs to let it out. Another one helps Noemi blend into the background like a chameleon when she is feeling nervous and needs a moment to herself. A third alebrije has big ears to hear all of Tío Andres’s worries.

Joaquin learns how to identify his needs and create an alebrije specifically for him, and when he returns to school, he is no longer feeling alone or invisible. With his new, fantastical friend helping him, Joaquin’s hard day is now one of his best yet.

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About The Author

Though “Only a Trenza Away” is Nadine’s debut into the world of children’s literature, she maintains her role as a thought leader and researcher, focusing on the profound impact of human connection and the strategic implementation of diversity, equity, and inclusion within organizations. Additionally, Nadine is the visionary behind Mighty Kind, an organization dedicated to cultivating empathetic learners by fostering anti-bias learning that amplifies diverse stories and experiences.  

My Review

This is a brightly colored book, it really draws your eye, and is geared for children ages 8 - 10, but could be of help to younger.
Joaquin is a shy youngster, he doesn't speak up in class, and this read takes him on an adventure, he meets a new friend, and she shares alebrijes, they are always happy to support him. There is a glossary in the back of this book and it tells exactly what makes up Alebrije, well there is a list of five different purposeful parts.
The book is a sweet story of how to work through your emotions, with several ways not to feel alone.
I received this book through Shadow Mountain Publishing, and was not required to give a positive review.