The Plant Rescuer

In this sunny problem-solving tale, Manny and his landscaper father “come from a long line of gardeners.” Though the Latinx-cued family’s apartment has no garden, “Dad has a gift for growing jungles in the smallest spaces,” and lush, collage-like spreads by Rivera show the home overflowing with growth. Inspired, Manny asks for a plant of his own, and his father is quick to oblige. When the plant begins to lose leaves, the story follows Manny as he tries to revive it. The plant’s rebirth champions independence (“I promised I would take care of my amigo by myself”), patience, and finding answers at Manny’s “old friend, the library,” while the child’s success, and his father’s affirmation, result in a generous impulse: “Mijo, let’s share your gift and take cuttings of your amigo to our neighbors.” Ages 4–8. (May)