LOOKING FOR BONGO

Looking for Bongo

Written and Illustrated by :Eric Velasquez
Paperback| Pages: 32
Size:9 x 10| USD:$8.99
ISBN:9780823437672
Publication Date: January 30, 2017
Age: 3-6| Guided Reading Level: J
Recommendations: K, PW, SLJ

About the Book

Where could Bongo be? Help a young boy find his beloved toy—and figure out how he got lost to begin with.
 
The boy knows Bongo was right there with him this morning—but suddenly, Bongo is missing. He asks his whole family if they've seen the stuffed toy.  "Yo no sé," says abuela, "I don't know." 
 
Mom and Dad haven't seen him either. And Gato just meows and runs away. 
 
When he finds Bongo, the boy is thrilled—but he still doesn't understand how his toy ended up there. So he sets a trap to catch the Bongo thief. . . .
 
Eric Velasquez's detailed, expressive illustrations follow the boy's investigation throughout his home, giving a glimpse at a warm, multi-generational family.
 
A Bank Street Best Children's Book of the Year

★★★THE REVIEWS ARE IN!★★★

★ “* "An Afro Latino boy searches for his missing stuffed toy in this tender tribute to family, music, and childhood. . . . this work's celebration of the diversity within Latino culture will warm hearts. A sweet tale recommended for diverse toddler storytimes and one-on-one sharing."—School Library Journal, Starred Review

"Velasquez's text is a simple mix of English and easily decipherable Spanish . . . The illustrations of the narrator's quest are active, consisting of many gestures and close-up facial expressions, and the colors are warm creams, blues, and oranges. Home life is multigenerational and loving."—Booklist

"Velasquez's portrayal of a family that is both black and Latino (a rarity in children's books) is refreshing. . . . this simple story with a twist should have wide appeal. Darling."—Kirkus Reviews