María J. Guarda – illustratör

“A welcome addition to an immigrant stories collection, this is a heartwarming reminder for children and their caregivers that oppression falls, families survive, and connections and love withstand and return.” Bulletin of the Center for Children’s Books“A poignant portrayal of home, family, and support in trying times.” Booklist“A gentle yet powerful reminder of the strength it takes to find home, both in new places and in the heart.” Kirkus ReviewsPaloma’s home has changed. The dictator who took over the country has stripped its people of their freedoms, and it’s no longer OK to think for yourself. So, like birds, Paloma and her parents fly away in search of a new home, without a chance to pack or say goodbye. The new country is different and generous, and their arrival is a big adventure ... but it's not an easy change.With a simple narration and stunning illustrations, María J. Guarda brings us a tender story about home, family, and identity during times of immeasurable change.

Will Paloma and her parents someday find their way back to home and family? A Chilean artist tells an emotionally resonant, beautifully illustrated immigration story through a child’s eyes.Paloma’s home has changed. The dictator who took over the country has stripped its people of their freedoms, and it’s no longer OK to think for yourself. So, like birds, Paloma and her parents fly away in search of a new home, without a chance to pack or say goodbye. The new country is different and generous, and their arrival is a big adventure. Though things are unfamiliar and Paloma misses the country she left, her new friends are soon like family, and she feels right at home. Then she grows older, and more changes come, and Paloma and family are flying away again, to a country she can barely remember... With a simple narration and stunning illustrations, María J. Guarda brings us a tender story about home, family and identity during times of immeasurable change.