"In this conversational illustrated travelogue by Perkins. a tween discovers friendship that transcends a language barrier and the exhilarating mysteries of an unfamiliar environment. Realistic full-page b&w illustrations punctuate the narrative, evoking a gentle episodic feel to the plot and emphasizing Lissie's wide-eyed insights." - Publishers Weekly "This younger middle grade novel is delightfully adorned throughout with black-and-white artwork that ranges from spot art to multi-page spreads and comic panels which both enhance and amplify the well-written story. A simple, charmingly written story about a vacation to Guatemala" - School Library Journal "Lissie. hopes to learn Spanish on the trip she's taking with her dad and grandma. Word by word, phrase by phrase, Lissie's Spanish skills expand in that faraway place where she has both new and familiar experiences and meets many kind people. Black-and-white drawings illustrate elements of Lissie's trip, as well as some of the words, phrases, and concepts she is learning in Spanish, with phonetic pronunciation and English translation provided in this quietly captivating, full-hearted story.

" - Cooperative Children's Book Center "Newbery Medal winner Perkins writes and illustrates an engaging middle-grade book about the personal fulfillment and delight of travel. While unable to communicate freely with other kids, [Lissie] learns that words are not always necessary, especially when playing soccer or making friendship bracelets. Black-and-white multimedia artwork appears in the book as full-page illustrations and comic panels, adding visual interest and helping readers see the beauty and wonder of Guatemala. Spanish phrases with phonetic spellings and English translations are also included throughout the narrative to help readers learn Spanish phrases alongside Lissie." - Booklist "Lissie travels with her father and grandma to a distant country, where volcanoes overlook the city and the residents speak Spanish. Lissie's engagement with Spanish partially drives the narrative, and she is portrayed as listening closely to gauge the meanings of unknown words and excitedly asking for translations. With vignettes both lighthearted and profound, the story also strikes a resonant note of cultural sensitivity." - Horn Book Magazine "An enriching, inspiring, and well-crafted story for young readers.

It blends adventure, friendship, courage, and the transformative power of travel into a bilingual package." - NY Journal of Books.