Papi's Gift

In this IRA Notable Book for a Global Society, Graciela overcomes her disappointment at not receiving the birthday present Papi promised to send by thinking of what Papi might need from her. Graciela lives in a country south of the United States, and Papi works on a farm in California. Though he can't be with her to celebrate her seventh birthday, he has promised to send her a special birthday present tied in red string. On the front of the package will be her name: Garciela Maria Reyes Rivera. Each day Graciela checks the mail, and each day she finds no present. Graciela is angry and disappointed. But then she has a thought: maybe Papi could use a gift himself. Karen Stanton's touching story about a child's selfless act of love is beautifully illustrated by Rene King Moreno.

Karen Stanton is the author and illustrator of Mr. K and Yudi. She teaches children's picture book writing, illustration, and publishing at City College of San Francisco. She lives in Piedmont, California.

Rene King Moreno was born in North Carolina and received a degree in fine arts from the Rhode Island School of Design. She is the illustrator of Under the Lemon Moon by Edith Hope Fine, and Fiesta! and Siesta, both by Ginger Foglesong Guy. She lives in Chicago.