A picture book debut by an award-winning author about a boy's life on
the U.S.-Mexico border, visiting his favorite places on The Other Side
with his father, spending time with family and friends, and sharing in
the responsibility of community care.
Early one Saturday morning, a boy prepares for a trip to The Other
Side/El Otro Lado. It's close--just down the street from his school--and
it's a twin of where he lives. To get there, his father drives their
truck along the Rio Grande and over a bridge, where they're greeted by a
giant statue of an eagle. Their outings always include a meal at their
favorite restaurant, a visit with Tío Mateo at his jewelry store, a cold
treat from the paletero, and a pharmacy pickup. On their final and most
important stop, they check in with friends seeking asylum and drop off
much-needed supplies.
My Two Border Towns by David Bowles, with stunning watercolor
illustrations by Erika Meza, is the loving story of a father and son's
weekend ritual, a demonstration of community care, and a tribute to the
fluidity, complexity, and vibrancy of life on the U.S.-Mexico border.
Available in English and Spanish.