Precious

Young Pedrito lives in Aguadilla, Puerto Rico, with his mother and older brother, while his father, who used to make music with them, works in the contiguous U.S. As a hurricane approaches the coastal town, the family prepares, and Pedrito observes the foreboding clouds: “It looks like a big wolf is coming.” That night, the child has disturbing dreams that segue into waking life when he rescues a trapped dog. After the storm passes, the townspeople band together to clean up the wreckage, and though Pedrito is devastated when the dog’s true owner appears, his mother asks him to lead the family, at twilight, in singing his father’s favorite song—“ ‘Preciosa,’ a song about beautiful Puerto Rico.” Months later, when Pedrito and his family prepare to head to the U.S. mainland, the child receives a surprise puppy, whom he names after the song. Honoring a beloved tune from Rafael Hernández Marín, Aponte (Across the Bay) crafts a resonant story that leans into themes of community care and cultural heritage; stylized digital illustrations carefully display the community and setting alongside the family’s expressions. A Spanish-language edition publishes simultaneously. Includes limited lyrics from the song. Ages 3–7. Agent: John Rudolph, Dystel, Goderich & Bourret. (May)