THE BRONX IS MY HOME
Santiago likes to visit the four other New York boroughs but is proud to say “The Bronx is my home.” With Mami, a teacher, Santiago spends one Saturday traveling to different sites around the borough that they love. They delight in the ordinary, like riding the subway and catching glimpses of the people below and stopping by Santiago’s godfather’s food truck. Santiago and Mami visit the Bronx Equestrian Center and see lions and butterflies at the Bronx Zoo. They hike the Siwanoy Trail, splash their feet in the waves at Orchard Beach, and eat Italian food on Arthur Avenue before crossing the historic High Bridge to spend the night at Abuela’s house. The childlike observations effectively draw readers into Santiago’s day, and the story serves as a satisfying introduction to an experience of fun urban living. Spanish phrases are incorporated into the dialogue between Santiago and Mami. Nods to local heroes Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez and Sonia Sotomayor are seamlessly worked in; facts about landmarks feel a bit forced and are most likely to appeal to those already familiar with the Bronx. Holt’s animation-style illustrations lend energy to the sweet relationships and diverse communities depicted. (This book was reviewed digitally.)
