El chino (The Matador)

Reach for this book when your child feels like they do not fit the mold of their peers or when they are struggling to bridge two different parts of their identity. It is an ideal choice for a child who feels like an outsider, whether due to their physical stature, their heritage, or interests that seem at odds with their community's expectations. This stunningly illustrated biography follows Billy Wong, a Chinese American boy from Arizona who defies every expectation to become a professional matador in Spain. The story navigates themes of resilience, cultural courage, and the pursuit of a dream that no one else can see. Allen Say's masterful use of color, moving from sepia tones to vibrant hues as Billy finds his calling, provides a sophisticated visual metaphor for self-actualization. It is a quiet but powerful testament to the idea that who we are meant to be is not always dictated by where we come from.