Description: A boy dreads the first day of class at his new school because he feels he has nothing special to share about himself. Then his grandmother whispers a secret in his ear--when it's his turn to talk, all he needs to do is open his backpack. What has Abuelita hidden away for him?
Brief description: Alma Flor Ada, author of numerous award-winning books, was born in Camaguey, Cuba. Her grandmother, Dolores Salvador, was a progressive educator who taught her to read and awakened her love of poetry. Following in her grandmother's footsteps, she has dedicated her life to cultivating transformational education and a love of reading.
Review Quotes: A beautifully crafted, multilayered story about starting school that is buoyed by cheery and warmhearted illustrations. -- Martha Rico "SLJ (School Library Journal)"