José and El Perro

Reach for this book when your child is navigating the patience required to build a new relationship, whether with a pet or a peer who speaks a different language. It is a perfect selection for families looking to validate the effort it takes to solve problems with empathy and persistence. The story follows José as he brings home a rescue dog only to realize the pup doesn't respond to Spanish commands. Rather than giving up, José becomes a teacher, bridging the communication gap with kindness. This early chapter book is ideal for children ages 5 to 8, especially those in bilingual households or immersion programs. It beautifully balances the excitement of pet ownership with the responsibility of understanding another's needs. Parents will appreciate how it frames language not as a barrier, but as a bridge, fostering a sense of pride in one's heritage while celebrating the universal bond between a child and their dog.