By: Daniela Ramirez / Illustrated by: Maribel Lechuga

“Every so often, a character resonates with readers of all ages. Esmerelda reminds us that home is in the heartand in music. And if we listen closely, our favorite songs will always meet us on the dance floors of our lives, right when we’re ready to feel the beat again.”
Antwan Eady, author of Nigel and the Moon and The Last Stand

It’s time to go homebut Esmerelda’s never been there.

Papa’s job in the military has taken Esmerelda and her family all over the worldand yet she’s never lived in the United States. Now she and her family are moving to San Antonio, Texas.

Although many of her extended family members live there, Esmerelda is unsure it’ll feel like home. Even more, she’s unsure she will fit in. Gradually, music and her sweet abuela spark bravery and the realization that home is not always a placeit’s familia.

Heartwarming and hopeful, Welcome Home, Esmerelda will provide reassurance to any kid that while moving and change are difficult, you have the support of loved ones to help you through it.

“With lyrical text and cumbia energy, Welcome Home Esmerelda is full of beautiful layers of encouragement and familia love as well as the treasured lines spoken by Abuela, Home is not always a place. Home is a feeling in your heart. Get ready to fall in love!”
Kim Tomsic, award-winning author

“Daniela Ramirez crafts a heartfelt ode to the sacrifices of military families, Chicano heritage, and the power of music. . . . [A] stunning, tender celebration of identity, belonging, and the music that ties us to those we love.
Mara Dolores guila, author of Barrio Rising

“A lovely reminder that home is not always a place, but a connection to community.”
Jenny Lacika, author of the Mathical Award winner Again, Essie?

“This beautiful intergenerational book will capture your heart. Ramirez’s engaging text and Lechuga’s playful, pastel illustrations offer a soothing story full of musical rhythm and abuela reminders to help readers reimagine home.”
Laurel Goodluck, award-winning author of Forever Cousins

If you like this book, youll enjoy these:
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Forever Cousins

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Author & Illustrator

Daniela Ramirez, author

Daniela Ramirez has a passion for writing books for children. She is Mexican American and excited to share her culture. Daniela loves writing Latine characters and wishes to inspire her own children. She is married to her college sweetheart, is a military spouse, and currently resides in New Mexico.

Read more about Daniela.

Maribel Lechuga, illustrator

As a child, Maribel Lechuga spent every quiet hour of the day drawing. She studied illustration in art school in Madrid and is now the illustrator of many children’s books, including Night Owl Night, Ten Beautiful Things, and Seaside Stroll. Maribel loves the environment and animals and recharges her batteries by hiking through the Spanish hills.

Read more about Maribel.

Awards & Honors

• Coming soon!

Editorial Reviews

Children’s Literature

Esmeralda and her family are preparing to move from Germany to San Antonio, Texas. Esmeralda’s dad is in the military, so moving is not new to her, but she is nervous about living in San Antonio because she fears feeling out of place. Even though she was born there and her family lives there, she has no memories of Texas, unlike her older sister, Mariana. Esmeralda is concerned she won’t fit in. Mariana comforts her and tells her everything will be okay. Once they arrive in San Antonio, Esmeralda watches her parents and Mariana glow with smiles as they reconnect with the family. Then, To George learns that Esmeralda loves music like her abuela, so he turns up a song by Selena. Esmeralda comes alive, pulling her sister onto the dance floor. All the family joins in, creating a cumbia line. Esmeralda beams with joy and realizes she is home. This heartwarming tale depicts the challenges of growing up in a military family. Children who have parents in the military will be able to relate to Esmeralda. Ramirez’s beautiful story captures that struggle but also offers hope. Readers will get to see how good things can come from change.

Details

English Hardcover
ISBN: 978-1-62354-390-7

Spanish Hardcover
ISBN: 978-1-62354-438-6

Ages: 69
Page count: 32
9 x 9

Publication date: May 13, 2025

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