Calling the Doves / El canto de las palomas

Reach for this book when your child is curious about their family roots or when you want to nurture a young artist who sees the world with sensitive eyes. This lyrical memoir by former U.S. Poet Laureate Juan Felipe Herrera captures the warmth and wonder of a childhood spent in the agricultural fields of California. It focuses on how a child can find beauty and rhythm in a life of constant movement and hard work. Through the gentle guidance of his parents, a young Juan learns that his voice is a powerful tool for creation. It is a perfect selection for families looking to celebrate Mexican American heritage, explore the resilience of the human spirit, or introduce the concept of poetry as a way to document one's life. The bilingual text allows for a shared linguistic experience that honors the richness of Spanish and English storytelling.