Because he can only speak Spanish, Francisco, son of a migrant worker, has trouble when he begins first grade.

This story is about a boy named Francisco, whose family was part of the migrant circuit that traveled to work in the fields around the country during the different seasons. Francisco is starting in a new school, but he doesn't speak English and is worried about how it will go. This book helps the reader gain a new perspective on what it is like to not fit in due to culture and language barriers, but it also reveals how relationships can be made through acts of kindness and love. This book has beautiful illustrations, some Spanish words, and is also available as an audio book. ( )

Summary: Francisco can not speak or understand English when he begins school, but finds his way to having friends and a place in the class when he wins a blue ribbon for his drawing of the butterfly.

Reaction: I like this book, it give understanding to the difficulties children can have when they do not understand, not just due to the language spoken, but also due to developmental disabilities.

Extension: This is a good project book for English/Spanish learning words and also for the process of the cocoon/butterfly. It is a great way for children to get an understanding of how hard it can be for someone that can not speak English.

RGG: Beautifully illustrated, sweet story based on Jimenez's childhood. Some imagery, figurative language. Nice pre-cursor to Esperanza Rising, and Jimenez's The Circuit, etc. Reading Level: P.

Francisco is in his first year of school in America and can’t understand English. This is the story of how he struggles to learn English. During the year he is drawn to a caterpillar in a jar that he begins to watch. Just like the caterpillar who will turn into a Butterfly, Francisco too is changing. A wonderful look at how an ESL student’s struggle as he learns a new language. Grades 2-3