Today we celebrate the book birthday of A Flicker of Hope. We sat down with Musa Cynthia Harmony to learn all about the inspiration behind this book.

But first, a little bit about the book: 

A FLICKER OF HOPE - A Kirkus and Publishers Weekly Star recipient.

LUCÍA loves to watch the monarcas’ annual migration with her papá. But this year, their flight north holds extra weight: Papá is heading north, too, to work on faraway farms to feed his family. Though she hates to see him go, he leaves her a song and a promise that when the weather turns cold and the monarcas return, so will he. After many months apart, Lucía watches the skies for a flicker of hope, the monarchs’ homecoming that signals Papá’s return. Through parallel journeys, this love letter to the bonds that connect us celebrates the power of families and nature, both of which know no borders.

Today, we're thrilled to reveal the cover to SQUAWK OF SPANISH by Gabriella Aldeman, illustrated by Romina Galotta. This gorgeous picture book will be released August 13th, 2024, from Charlesbridge. 

But first, a little bit about the book:

Max finds his Spanish-speaking voice with the help of his abuela’s pet, Lorito.
Max isn’t confident with his Spanish, especially rolling his Rs, and his cousins always tease him
about it. But he loves spending weekends baking with his Spanish-speaking abuela, while
Lorito the parrot helps translate. But when Lorito disappears for a day, Max and Abuela must
figure out how to communicate. Max’s Spanish doesn’t have to be perfect, and Abuela can
attempt a little English. Trying is what counts!

Gabriella says:
My first reaction to the cover was: “This is Max, Abuela, and Lorito—I see them!” I instantly fell in love with Max. With soft curls and a round face, he resembles my son who was the inspiration for the story. Like Max, my son’s Spanish words sometimes knot in his throat and refuse to come out. I was blown away by how Romina illustrated the warmth between Max and Abuela as well as Lorito’s whimsical personality. Romina made Lorito into a sidekick all kids will want to have. I cannot wait for readers to fall in love with his silly jokes and joyous personality!

Romina Galotta’s illustrations brought tears to my eyes and a smile to my face. I also have to thank the designer, Kristen Nobles, and my wonderful editor, Karen Boss. I think this cover is full of joy. I hope you all agree!

Written by Gabriella Aldeman, illustrated by Romina Galotta, and published by Charlesbridge,
Squawk of Spanish will be out on August 13, 2024 and simultaneously released in Spanish as
Un graznido en español.

Pre-order Squawk of Spanish and Un graznido en español today!

Add Squawk of Spanish and Un graznido en español to your Want-to-Read List on GoodReads!

Gabriella Aldeman is an author and translator who is constantly trying to get her kids to respond to her en español. She has a mission to make educational content accessible to Spanish-speaking families and engage readers with rhymes, stories, and worlds of wonder.

Gaby grew up in Panama and now lives in Virginia. This is her second picture book. Please visit
her at www.writebetween.com or @write_between on Twitter or Instagram.