The Most Beautiful Place in the World

Now that Juan’s mother has left him with his grandmother, he shines shoes to earn a living. More than anything else, though, 7-year old Juan wants to learn to read and go to school. Guatemala comes alive through the daily lives of Juan and his grandmother and the detailed black/white illustrations.

Book lists this appears on

Themed Booklist

Books for Hispanic Heritage Month

Barrio: José's Neighborhood / Barrio: El barrio de José

Themed Booklist

Latino and Spanish-Language Favorites

Other books by this author

Julian, Secret Agent

Ann Cameron

Illustrator:

Diane Allison

Age Level:

6-9

Spunky speaks only Dog but understands Human and has a special affinity for Huey (first introduced in the Stories Julian Tells (opens in a new window)). Spunky’s narration provides insight into Dog customs and human behavior as well has his frustration when they bring a snobby cat into the family as a friend for Spunky! Readers will laugh at Spunky’s observations in this fast-paced family story.