Archives for March 26, 2022

This spring, Simon & Schuster is publishing Jessie Sima’s eagerly-anticipated companion to the bestselling Not Quite Narwhal, PERFECTLY PEGASUS (3/29/22)! Not Quite Narwhal has become a beloved read for thousands of children since it was published in 2017. So much so, that not only was it a New York Times bestseller, it’s also being adapted into a television series with DreamWorks and Netflix!

In this gorgeous companion picture book, readers will meet Nimbus, who has always lived among the clouds. She’s a pegasus, after all, and the sky is where she belongs. She is one of a kind. And when she wants a friend, all she has to do is look up—and talk to the stars. Only…they don’t really talk back. The clouds don’t, either. And sometimes, being the only pegasus can be a little…lonely? So she decides to find a fallen star to make a wish on—and wishes for friends who are just like her. Along the way she meets a Unicorn named Kelp, and a host of other creatures…who might just open her eyes to something other than what’s up in the sky.

Like Jessie’s previous books, PERFECTLY PEGASUS has that magical combination of humor and heart that’s made Jessie so tremendously popular. With gentle spirit and affirmation, this stunning read is attentive to the feelings of its young readers, delivering a story that is joyful and uplifting.

This truly is a beautiful children’s book with a delightful story and amazing illustrations! I highly recommend it!

Self Disclosure: I received a free copy of this book to facilitate this spotlight post. A cover image was also provided.

A young couple from Mexico decides to come to the U.S. in search of the “American Dream” — illegals in a foreign country, no family, no friends. They are forced to confront the choices they have made.

KIDS FIRST! Film Critic Eshaan M. comments, “Por Mi Hija is a gripping, evocative film; it does its part to encourage dialogue about immigration and the journeys of illegal immigrants to the U.S. while greatly entertaining audiences. The film’s cinematography further enhances the engaging storyline.” See his full review and interview with director, Fernando Rodriguez below.

Por Mi Hija

By Eshaan M, age 16, KIDS FIRST! Film Critic

Por Mi Hija is a gripping, evocative film; it does its part to encourage dialogue about immigration and the journeys of illegal immigrants to the U.S. while greatly entertaining audiences. The film’s cinematography further enhances the engaging storyline.

Por Mi Hija follows Leo (Christopher Bustos) and Emma (Daniela Vidaurre), a newlywed couple from the small town of Jalostotitlán, Mexico. Leo’s friend helps him get a job in Fresno, California, and the two head north as illegal immigrants to start a new life.  Soon they must confront the reality that their new life in America isn’t all that it’s cut out to be.

The acting, cinematography, and storyline of the film all come together to make Por Mi Hija a unique experience. The film jumps back and forth in time, using color and light to indicate these shifts. Director Fernando Rodriguez ensured this isn’t disorienting to audiences; rather, he keeps viewers interested throughout the hour-long feature film. Rodriguez also wrote the script, which contains a melodious mix of Spanish (about 90%) and English (about 10%). Bustos, Vidaurre, and young Luciana Elisa Quiñonez, who plays the character of the same name, deliver their lines with beautiful conviction. Their eyes speak just as they do, and their body language syncs up perfectly with the mood of the scene. The cinematography is remarkable as well; especially towards the beginning and during tense scenes—the use of light and framing of scenes adds layers to the film.

Por Mi Hija promotes staying together despite difficulties, taking risks, never running from challenges, and, at its heart, the film’s all about empathy: empathy for immigrants, yes, but also for all those around you. Por Mi Hija contains racism, blood, slight profanity, and alcohol.

I give Por Mi Hija 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults. Por Mi Hija is available now on digital and DVD.