Eres libre

PreS-Gr 2–A thoughtful exploration of diversity and acceptance. Expósito Escalona’s lyrical poem uses the metaphor of wings and flying to signify how freedom keeps communities afloat. She uses different definitions for freedom to help children learn about diversity, respecting others, and self-respect. An overarching theme is mindfulness for yourself, those around you, and how your actions may impede others’ self-expression. The poem is divided by spreads with verses and correlating abstract illustrations. ­Gutiérrez Serna’s expert use of negative space lets her illustrations interact with but not detract from the text. Though the children are presented with a gray skin tone, the images show a diversity of hair texture and facial features. A limited six-color palette makes the linear additions of birds, the sky, and grass stand out against the figures. Some birds are layered behind or in front of the children so readers can imagine actual wings.