Accordionly - by Michael Genhart (Hardcover)

About the Book

Finalist in the International Latino Book Awards

Three accordions, two grandpas, one family!

Book Synopsis

When both grandpas, Abuelo and Opa, visit at the same time, they can't understand each other's language, and there is a lot of silence.

The grandson's clever thinking helps find a way for everyone to share the day together as two cultures become one family. This unique book includes a bonus fold-out and a note from the author sharing the true story of his own family.

Review Quotes

"Genhart pulls from his own childhood growing up in bicultural family in this cheery picture book, which tells of a young boy and how the accordion brought his family together.... Music is the universal language.... Great for reading aloud and featuring bright, energetic illustrations, this endearing story supports diversity and multicultural inclusion." --Booklist-- "Booklist"

"Genhart's story is pure joy.... his is a very clever idea for a book, as we all have bits of different cultures in our history. And there are many of us who have chosen to create bicultural and multiracial families through adoption. This book will have a far-reaching appeal to many families. It is such an uplifting and feel-good story."-- "Children's Books Heal"

"Members of multiracial families may have more in common than expected... Even more, the boy's problem-solving abilities offer an opportunity to talk to children about situations that trouble them, and possible solutions. A thoughtful picture book for storytime and one-on-one reads." --School Library Journal-- "School Library Journal"

"Genhart draws on his own family's history for inspiration in his newest diversity-celebrating picture book.... This is a reassuring story, emphasizing that though we may be different we can find common ground, an especially important message for multiracial/multiethnic children who can often feel pulled between competing identities... Burris' dot-eyed and brightly colored illustrations are darling, highlighting each culture well.... As mixed-race families continue to grow, this title is sure to find a ready audience." --Kirkus Reviews-- "Kirkus Reviews" (2/4/2020 12:00:00 AM)

About the Author

Michael Genhart, PhD, is the descendant of Mexican Americans and Swiss Americans, and is a licensed clinical psychologist in private practice in San Francisco. He has also written Rainbow: A First Book of Pride; Cake & I Scream!...being bossy isn't sweet; Mac & Geeeez!...being real is what it's all about; Peanut Butter & Jellyous...sometimes friendships get sticky; Ouch! Moments: When Words Are Used in Hurtful Ways; I See You; and So Many Smarts! He lives with his family in Marin County. Visit MichaelGenhart.com or visit him on Facebook @picturebookauthor.

Priscilla Burris is Mexican American and is a member of the board of advisors for the Society of Children's Book Writers and Illustrators and its national illustrator coordinator and advisor. She lives with her family in Southern California. Visit priscillaburris.com and visit her on Instagram and Twitter @PriscillaDesign.