Have you ever used a grown-up’s clothes and make-up to play dress up? In this book, Julian dresses up in a spectacular outfit after seeing, and being inspired by, three women on the subway. But what will his Abuela think? 

This almost wordless book is a wonderful way to engage 4-8 year olds in a discussion about their self and their identity, and to raise awareness about the freedom of self-expression. 

        Watch the Virtual Storytime               Purchase a copy of the book

Done with the read aloud? Use these ideas to continue the conversation with your child. 

• Do you like to  play dress up? What do you like to dress up as?
• Have you ever worn special costumes for a play or parade, or perhaps a family event? How did it feel to dress up or pretend to be someone else?
• New York holds a mermaid parade every year on Coney Island. This is a time for thousands of people to join local residents and artists as they come together to express themselves and celebrate. Have you taken part in a parade or carnival? What was it like? 

Try this!  

• Make a mermaid tail. Talk with your parents or family members about what you would do if you saw mermaids. 
• Dress up in a costume that expresses who you are. Feel free to include the mermaid tail in your costume. 
• Parades often come with music! Fill water in jars to make your own musical instrument.  
• In this book, Julián’s abuela was a very special person who helped Julián express himself. Make a gratitude card for someone special in your life. 

Read
Other books about children learning more about themselves. 

The Day You Begin

• Purchase a copy of this book

Alma

• Purchase a copy of this book

Sing
Will.I.Am and his muppet friends from Sesame Street celebrate the things that make each person special! Listen to and learn this song, which is about believing in yourself.

Puzzle
Check out these puzzles for all ages from Reading is Fundamental.

Listen
Grownups may enjoy listening to this interview with author Jessica Love, conducted by the Children’s Book Podcast.

When you purchase a children’s book using the Bookshop.org links above, Tandem will receive 10% of each sale as a donation, and each Bookshop.org purchase financially supports local, independent booksellers. For more titles, please view our Tandem book recommendation list that includes children’s book titles vetted for quality and representation of diverse families.

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