Areli is a Dreamer – Samantha Cronin’s Kid Lit Library

Areli is a Dreamer

Author: Areli Morales

Illustrator: Luisa Uribe

Published in 2021 by Random House Studio

Areli is a Dreamer is a true personal narrative by Areli Morales, a DACA recipient, that tells her immigration story from Mexico to New York. The story begins at her Abuela’s house in Mexico where she enjoys playing with her cousins, creating memories, laughing, and sharing delicious food. Soon, she will join her parents and baby brother in the United States. Areli anxiously anticipates her big move, feeling sad to leave behind her life in Mexico. When she arrives in New York, everything is “bigger and faster and noisier” and “it wasn’t home at all.” At her new school, children are unkind, teasing her because of her language and calling her “illegal.” Her story reveals the discrimination and injustice that many immigrants and refugees are faced with.

During a class field trip to Ellis Island, Areli learns the history of immigration to the United States and realizes she really does belong. Her heartfelt narrative and the magnificent illustrations uplift the courageous, hopeful, affirming message that immigrants make America and deserve all the bright and brilliant opportunities this world has to offer. A glossary defines Spanish words and phrases from the story at the conclusion of the book.

*The Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) is an immigration policy that has provided relief to thousands of undocumented children, referred to as “Dreamers,” who came to the United States as children and call this country home.

If you love this book, you will also enjoy Dreamers by Yuyi Morales.

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