AN OFRENDA FOR PERRO

A boy deals with the loss of his dog.

Ever since Benito was born, his dog, Perro, has been his faithful companion. But one day, when Benito invites Perro to go on a walk, the elderly dog stumbles and is unable to get up. Benito’s father takes Perro to the vet but returns alone. Benito is devastated, missing even Perro’s wet-dog smell after a walk in the rain. The time comes to prepare for Dia de los Muertos, and though Benito doesn’t feel like doing anything, his mother convinces him to help. As he joins his parents in gathering marigolds, buying candles, and arranging family portraits on the altar, he learns the meaning of each symbol and the reason for the holiday. “We don’t celebrate the dead,” his father tells him, “but the love we have for them.” As they share memories of deceased loved ones, Benito understands that as long as he remembers him, Perro will be with him always. The text is minimal, providing the story a strong backbone without overexplaining. The result is a tale that will help children articulate their own feelings while giving them space to infer and project deeper emotional nuances. The lush illustrations—including a joyful representation of Perro’s spirit—counterbalance Benito’s sadness and invite readers to linger on each scene. Benito and his parents are Latine and brown-skinned. (This book was reviewed digitally.)

Will leave anyone grieving feeling seen and hugged.