Laughing out Loud, I Fly

Reach for this book when your child is exploring their family history, navigating the complexities of a bicultural identity, or seeking a way to express their own big feelings through creative writing. Juan Felipe Herrera, a former U.S. Poet Laureate, uses vibrant and rhythmic verse to paint a portrait of a migrant childhood filled with both the dust of the road and the gold of family love. It is an invitation for children to see their own lives as worthy of poetry. While the book touches on the challenges of moving and the loneliness that can come with being an outsider, the overarching tone is one of joy and resilience. The bilingual format (English and Spanish) makes it a beautiful bridge for families who speak both languages or for those wanting to introduce a new linguistic perspective. Best suited for ages 8 to 12, this memoir-in-verse celebrates the small, everyday moments that shape a person's sense of belonging and self-worth.