Emilia Wishing - by Belen Medina (Hardcover)

About the Book

"Emilia wishes for new clothes and nicer things, but a layaway purchase at a thrift store helps her see the strength of her mother's love"-- Provided by publisher.

Book Synopsis

In this poignant picture book, Emilia wishes for all the things she doesn't have, including her own bed, a new car, and nicer clothes. But as she discovers through her mom's sacrifices, Emilia already has what she needs.

Emilia wakes up with hot breath in her face and a sharp knee poking her from behind, wishing she had her own bed. Emilia looks out from the back seat of her old car at her neighborhood, wishing she lived on a tree-lined street in a big house with a swimming pool. And when she gets to the rundown strip mall where the thrift shop is--and not the fancy mall across the street--she models clothes for her Mama and sisters, wishing they could all be hers. But money is tight, and Mama works hard, and so she must wait. And when the day finally comes when they can make the last payment on layaway, Emilia realizes that the clothes don't matter--her Mama's love and joy and radiance is what does.
Emilia Wishing is a beautiful tale of gratitude, family bonds, and the realization that true wealth lies in the love and sacrifices of those around us.

About the Author

Belen Medina, the daughter of Mexican immigrants, was born and raised in California's Central Valley. She spent her childhood summers with her extended family in Mexico and has been navigating two cultures her entire life. She is a Lee & Low New Voices Award Honoree and an Ann Paul Whitford Award Honoree. Belen's debut picture book, Daughter of theLight-Footed People: The Story of Indigenous Marathon Champion Lorena Ramírez, received three starred reviews and was named a best book of the year by School Library Journal and the Horn Book.

Magdalena Mora is a Minneapolis-based illustrator and graphic designer. She has illustrated numerous picture books including Still Dreaming/Seguimos Soñando and The Notebook Keeper, both of which were 2023 Pura Belpre Honor award winners. She is also the illustrator of Barrio Rising, which received two starred reviews. Magdalena grew up between Chicago, Mexico, and California. When not drawing, Magdalena likes reading, people-watching, and trying to find the best tacos in the Twin Cities.