Paletero Man by Lucky Diaz, Micah Player
Published by HarperCollins on June 1, 2021
ISBN: 0063014440
Pages: 32
Format: Picture Book Fiction
Goodreads

It’s the hottest day of the year, and a young child is really looking forward to seeing Paletero Jose. Paletas are popsicles and other icy treats, and all the neighborhood kids can’t wait to get one. Along the way, the young child meets and interacts with several community members, and when he finally gets to the paletas, he’s found he has no money. These same community members have collected all the money he dropped and bring it to him. Their kindness prompts Paletero Jose to give everyone free paletas.

This is a fun story of community and kindness (and sweet icy treats!). The illustrations are high color, cartoon-like, and really bring the story to life. All the bright colors exude summertime and fit the tone of the book perfectly. The entire book is based on a song with the same title, and young readers will love singing along. Throughout, there are Spanish words intertwined with English words making for a fun and diverse read aloud.

Recommended for readers 3 and up. Reviewed by Jessie Trafton, Skidompha Library, Damariscotta, ME