¡El Primer Voto de Leo! ( Spanish Edition)

K-Gr 2--Leo's father has just become a United States citizen and will be voting in the presidential election for the first time. Election season is in full swing, and Leo is experiencing its many facets, from the mock election in class where students will vote for one of two (unnamed) candidates to televised national conventions and debates, ads, and campaign calls. Soontornvat seamlessly peppers facts about elections throughout and deftly captures the mixed emotions a child may feel absorbing continuous press coverage and discussions among friends and family. Thankfully, Leo's community members--from college students sharing pamphlets about poll sites to a classmate's grandmother helping his dad register to vote--guide him and his father toward better understanding the process. Roxas's cut-paper illustrations represent the diversity of Leo's community, and the textured layers rendered in oil and acrylic enliven each page. Extensive back matter describes the basics of the voting process, from when elections are usually held to the electoral college, adding context to the right to vote and its importance. VERDICT A timely and informative title about the election process in the U.S. from a child's perspective, with an emphasis on community and participation. Highly recommended for Spanish-language collections.--Jessica Agudelo

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