(1) K-3 In this wordless picture book, two boys make a mango tree (or mata de mango) their hideout -- napping, eating juicy mangos, and even taunting some fearsome creatures from the safety of its branches. When a vicious storm blows through their island, it whisks away the mango tree in its boat-like pot, along with one child. After a choppy night at sea, boy and tree land on another island, with unfamiliar people and vegetation. The boy plants the last mango from the tree, and as a new tree grows, it becomes a space to play and enjoy its fruit for a crowd of children. Rodriguez's striking wood block and digital illustrations in a limited color palette are dynamic and well-balanced, with the sunset-glow of a mango guiding viewers through even the darkest spreads. Although the story itself is fantastical, the author's note -- provided in both English and Spanish -- explains how Rodriguez was inspired by his own experience of migration and by the mango tree and best friend he left behind.

Reviewer: | Horn Book Magazine Issue: July, 2024

(2) K-3 Clumsy penguin Sergio loves soccer. Determined, he becomes a goalie and practices like mad--then a rival team of thuggish-looking seagulls puts him to the test. The story's humor is amply evident in the dynamic three-color illustrations, speech bubbles, and well-timed page turns. Direct language, plentiful sports action, and clever interplay between words and illustrations energetically deliver the tale's message.

Reviewer: Claire E. Gross | Horn Book Magazine Issue: July, 2009

(3) K-3 Even though he loves water, penguin Sergio is afraid to swim in the ocean. On a school field trip to the open sea, he finally takes the plunge--but not without his snorkel, floaties, and life preserver. Rodriguez shows a good sense of comic timing in his uncluttered three-color illustrations featuring amusing speech balloons on an appropriately icy-blue background.

Reviewer: Martha Sibert