“Today is a BIG day. Today is the first time I get to help my papi at his work. He is a landscape contractor.” Juanito and Papi begin by picking up Javier, who works for Papi and has been teaching Juanito some Spanish. “‘¿Listo para trabajar?’ he says. ‘Sí, listo,’ I answer.” At the first job, Juanito waves to Alex, a boy he knows from school who is watching from the house next door. But Alex pretends not to see him, leaving Juanito feeling awkward and sad. Throughout the day, Papi and Javier teach Juanito how to help with various tasks, but at every work site Juanito also pulls out his sketchbook and draws. And throughout the day, Juanito remembers Alex looking away. It prompts him to ask Papi if he likes his job. Papi explains that even though it’s hard work, and sometimes he’s treated like he’s invisible, “when you do something you love and get to feel creative, you feel proud.” A story that leaves space for both reflection and discussion also showcases the nurturing of a young artist; it was inspired by author/artist Parra’s own father and childhood. In a moving author’s note, Parra tells more about his Mexican American family and the workers, often from Mexico, whom his father employed. Parra’s distinctive, folk-art-inspired illustrations are full of captivating details and abundant warmth. (Ages 5-9)

Four starred reviews!
A Kirkus Reviews Best Picture Book of the Year

From award-winning artist John Parra comes a “heartwarming family story that underscores the value of creativity, passion, and hard work” (Kirkus Reviews, starred review) that is “a love letter to sons and their fathers” (BookPage, starred review) based on his childhood experience.

Today is a big day—the first time Juanito gets to help his papi on the job as a landscape architect! Throughout the day, Juanito sketches anything that catches his eye: a nest full of baby birds, a nursery with row upon row of plants and flowers, and more. Father and son travel from house to house, pruning, weeding, mowing, and turning overgrown and chaotic yards into beautiful spaces.

A few of the clients don’t appreciate Papi’s hard work, like Juanito’s classmate who pretends not to see him. But Papi always feels pride in owning his own business and in a job well done. And at the end of the day, Juanito may get the chance to turn his artistic eye toward landscape design—just like his papi.