A New Favorite Middle Grade Book!

Just a few informative descriptors to describe. this wonderful tale!

Teo’s life is changed forever when Esme and her Romani family descend - with their gypsy caravan - on his Mixteco community called the Hill of Dust. Teo is still reeling from the trauma of parental and sibling loss when Esme barrels into his life, with song and vitality that he’s never experienced before. With encouragement from Esme and support from his animal menagerie of a rescue duck, a blind goat, and a three-legged skunk, Teo begins healing.

I love how this tale gives middle graders exposure to the literary fiction style of magical realism. Also, the poignantly portrayed process of aging and the emphasis on investing in youth, coupled with the redemption of multiple characters make this an absolute new favorite book!

Note: I read a physical copy (hardcover of course!), however the audio version on scribd is phenomenal, as well.