Accordionly: Abuelo and Opa Make Music

K-Gr 2—Members of multiracial families may have more in common than expected. This is the story of a young boy whose grandfathers cannot understand each other because they come from different countries and speak different languages. This saddens the boy, especially at family gatherings. One day, the boy realizes that even though his Abuelo and his Opa do not speak the same language, they are both great accordion players and share a love for music that radiates to the whole family. Genhart, who is Mexican and Swiss American, is a clinical psychologist and an Independent Publisher Book Award recipient for children's books. The mixed Latin-European heritage is conveyed by the main character as he tries to reconcile the differences between the two sides of his family and the features that bring them together. The illustrations rely on expressive tertiary characters and a pictorial setting built with shades of brown and other brighter colors to depict the story line. This picture book is published by an imprint of the American Psychological Association, which may resonate with parents who are looking for a story based on mixed-race families. Even more, the boy's problem-solving abilities offer an opportunity to talk to children about situations that trouble them, and possible solutions. VERDICT A thoughtful picture book for storytime and one-on-one reads.—Kathia Ibacache, Simi Valley Public Library, CA

Copyright 2020 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

"Genhart draws on his own family's history for inspiration in his newest diversity-celebrating picture book.... This is a reassuring story, emphasizing that though we may be different we can find common ground, an especially important message for multiracial/multiethnic children who can often feel pulled between competing identities... Burris' dot-eyed and brightly colored illustrations are darling, highlighting each culture well.... As mixed-race families continue to grow, this title is sure to find a ready audience." —Kirkus Reviews— "Kirkus Reviews" (2/4/2020 12:00:00 AM)