If there’s one thing we all want for our kids, it’s for them to follow even their craziest dreams. We hope that no one can deter them from pursuing what they desire. That’s why it’s so refreshing to read a book like Un Pato en Nueva York, in which the protagonist – an adorable little duck – refuses to stop wishing. He knows in his “pequeño y valiente corazón” that he is destined for the bright lights of Broadway.

This translated version of A Duck in New York City from The Secret Mountain publishers is impressive, to say the least. Its mixed media illustrations by Fil & Julie are worth a second look on every page. Everything from the reeds in the pond to the button wheels on the taxis and the geographically accurate newspaper headlines represents an astoundingly creative approach to book illustration.

While this visually attractive book would appeal to toddlers, it is also appropriate for older children (5-7 years old) who are learning to read in Spanish, because it includes high-level vocabulary, varying verb tenses, and purposeful repetition of several phrases.

Even if you are not confident in your Spanish reading skills, you can enjoy this book with your children. It includes a CD with the audio version of the story and twelve catchy canciones. My favorite is “Una nube quiero ser,” and my son enjoys “Si te gusta el hipopótamo.” This CD will surely replace your child’s favorite sing-along songs for long car rides without driving you crazy.

If you’re searching for a new, quality cuento with a little (actually, a lot) of something extra, this is the book for you and your niños. Enter the giveaway to see why Un pato en Nueva York is worth sharing.

By the way, if you live in Los Angeles, you can catch a performance of Un pato en Nueva York at LéaLA, Feria del Libro en Español de Los Angeles. For more information about this book fair, check out Ana’s post here.

The Giveaway