Los Angeles Libros Festival Titles 2023

Max and Jay are two Bribri American brothers trying to survive an abusive father. When they try to help a friend, suddenly violence erupts and their future is threatened. Will they be able to overcome their family, community and have the strength they need to move on? The novel is told in alternating voices and poetry.

 

Gorgeously illustrated tale that follows Althalia as she gains her power. Realism meets fantasy in dealing with oppression, both religious and secular as Althalia must fight to become her true self while keeping her family near.

Grades: Pre-K - 3

Woodson reminisces about childhood “in Brooklyn in the summer not so long ago,” when kids had the freedom to play in the streets all day long. Leo Espinosa’s illustrations are the perfect complement, portraying bell-bottoms, afros, and roller skates in the style of a 1970s cartoon. Parents and grandparents will want to share their own memories of childhood as they read.

Salvadoran poet Yesika Salgado is based in Los Angeles and writes about her family and her culture.

Isabel Quintero's graphic novel biography of Graciela Iturbide will appeal to all ages. Quintero interviewed the 76-year-old photographer whose pioneering work in photographing indigenous cultures is as remarkable as her own life. Other books by Iturbide can be found here.