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Areli Es Una Dreamer (Areli Is a Dreamer Spanish Edition): Una Historia Real por Areli Morales, Beneficiaria de DACA
En esta edición en español del primer álbum ilustrado escrito por una beneficiaria de DACA -una "dreamer"- Areli Morales narra su poderosa historia como inmigrante.
En la casa de la abuela -en las montañas de México- los sábados estaban llenos de familiares y de mucho sol. Areli era buena jugando al escondite y aún mejor persiguiendo gallinas. Cuando Areli era sólo una bebé, su mamá y su papá se mudaron a Nueva York con su hermano -Alex- en busca de una mejor vida para su familia. Cuando Areli entró a preescolar, enviaron a alguien por ella también.
Todo en Nueva York era diferente: grande, rápido y ruidoso. Areli casi no hablaba inglés y sus compañeros la acusaban de ser ilegal. Pero con el paso del tiempo y lentamente, Areli se convirtió en una neoyorquina . . . aún sin ser ciudadana estadounidense. -Aquí podría hacer lo que quisiera -Areli le dijo un día al cielo citadino-. Algún día lo lograré.
Ésta es una conmovedora historia -que evoca la de millones de inmigrantes que son parte íntegra de nuestro país- acerca de una niña que vive en dos mundos, una niña cuya solicitud de DACA fue eventualmente aprobada y que ahora vive el sueño americano.
In the first picture book written by a DACA dreamer Areli Morales tells her own powerful and vibrant immigration story in this Spanish translation companion book.
When Areli was just a baby, her mama and papa moved from Mexico to New York with her brother, Alex, to make a better life for the family--and when she was in kindergarten, they sent for her, too.
Everything in New York was different. Gone were the Saturdays at Abuela's house, filled with cousins and sunshine. Instead, things were busy and fast and noisy. Areli's limited English came out wrong, and schoolmates accused her of being illegal. But time passed, and Areli slowly became a New Yorker--although not an American citizen. "I could do anything here," Areli says one day to the city sky. "Someday, I will."
This is a moving story--one that resonates with millions of immigrants who make up the fabric of our country--about one girl living in two worlds, a girl whose DACA application was eventually approved and who is now living her American dream.
En la casa de la abuela -en las montañas de México- los sábados estaban llenos de familiares y de mucho sol. Areli era buena jugando al escondite y aún mejor persiguiendo gallinas. Cuando Areli era sólo una bebé, su mamá y su papá se mudaron a Nueva York con su hermano -Alex- en busca de una mejor vida para su familia. Cuando Areli entró a preescolar, enviaron a alguien por ella también.
Todo en Nueva York era diferente: grande, rápido y ruidoso. Areli casi no hablaba inglés y sus compañeros la acusaban de ser ilegal. Pero con el paso del tiempo y lentamente, Areli se convirtió en una neoyorquina . . . aún sin ser ciudadana estadounidense. -Aquí podría hacer lo que quisiera -Areli le dijo un día al cielo citadino-. Algún día lo lograré.
Ésta es una conmovedora historia -que evoca la de millones de inmigrantes que son parte íntegra de nuestro país- acerca de una niña que vive en dos mundos, una niña cuya solicitud de DACA fue eventualmente aprobada y que ahora vive el sueño americano.
In the first picture book written by a DACA dreamer Areli Morales tells her own powerful and vibrant immigration story in this Spanish translation companion book.
When Areli was just a baby, her mama and papa moved from Mexico to New York with her brother, Alex, to make a better life for the family--and when she was in kindergarten, they sent for her, too.
Everything in New York was different. Gone were the Saturdays at Abuela's house, filled with cousins and sunshine. Instead, things were busy and fast and noisy. Areli's limited English came out wrong, and schoolmates accused her of being illegal. But time passed, and Areli slowly became a New Yorker--although not an American citizen. "I could do anything here," Areli says one day to the city sky. "Someday, I will."
This is a moving story--one that resonates with millions of immigrants who make up the fabric of our country--about one girl living in two worlds, a girl whose DACA application was eventually approved and who is now living her American dream.
40 pages, Hardcover
First published June 8, 2021
8 people are currently reading
524 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 155 reviews
June 7, 2021
Growing up a Latin X reader it was always amazing to find books that depicted people that looked and sounded/spoke the same language as me. But this book goes above and beyond and giving you the real-life story of Arieli. There's very few punches that are pulled, but something that I could relate to personally is not going to Abuela's house anymore. And not seeing my cousins every day like how I was used to. The isolation you feel when you have to leave your home in search of a better life is devastating. So a book like this is essential to have especially in a classroom setting so that kids just like Areli know that they're not alone.
July 30, 2021
Areli Is a Dreamer: A True Story by Areli Morales, a DACA Recipient is a children's picture book written by Areli Morales and illustrated by Luisa Uribe. A Dreamer recalls her journey from Mexico to New York and the subsequent reality of living as an undocumented immigrant.
Areli Morales Romero was born in Puebla, Mexico, but was raised in New York City. She is a DACA recipient. A graduate of CUNY-Brooklyn College with a bachelor's degree in childhood bilingual education, she currently works as a substitute teacher.
Morales' text is rather simplistic, straightforward, and informative. Morales, a DACA recipient, spins an admirable third-person memoir that deeply resonates thanks to keen details that conjure moods with a few choice words. Backmatter includes an author’s note and glossary. Uribe's colorful yet muted artwork depicts the young Dreamer’s voyage from Abuela’s house to America with a lovely sense of restrained appreciation.
The premise of the book is rather straightforward. Areli's tale begins at Abuela's house and calls from Mamá and Papá from America. It’s an idyllic life, but it is undercut when Areli's big brother, Alex, born in America, returns to Nueva York, leaving Areli behind. Though Mamá and Papá work hard for a better life, the days pass with Areli separated from her family. Then one day Areli must leave Mexico and head to New York with a family friend. It’s a time of difficult goodbyes for Areli, and in the span of a few wordless pages, Areli's in the midst of the bigger and faster and noisier bustle of New York, reunited with her family.
All in all, Areli Is a Dreamer: A True Story by Areli Morales, a DACA Recipient is a powerful in its clear-eyed optimism about an undocumented immigrant.
Areli Morales Romero was born in Puebla, Mexico, but was raised in New York City. She is a DACA recipient. A graduate of CUNY-Brooklyn College with a bachelor's degree in childhood bilingual education, she currently works as a substitute teacher.
Morales' text is rather simplistic, straightforward, and informative. Morales, a DACA recipient, spins an admirable third-person memoir that deeply resonates thanks to keen details that conjure moods with a few choice words. Backmatter includes an author’s note and glossary. Uribe's colorful yet muted artwork depicts the young Dreamer’s voyage from Abuela’s house to America with a lovely sense of restrained appreciation.
The premise of the book is rather straightforward. Areli's tale begins at Abuela's house and calls from Mamá and Papá from America. It’s an idyllic life, but it is undercut when Areli's big brother, Alex, born in America, returns to Nueva York, leaving Areli behind. Though Mamá and Papá work hard for a better life, the days pass with Areli separated from her family. Then one day Areli must leave Mexico and head to New York with a family friend. It’s a time of difficult goodbyes for Areli, and in the span of a few wordless pages, Areli's in the midst of the bigger and faster and noisier bustle of New York, reunited with her family.
All in all, Areli Is a Dreamer: A True Story by Areli Morales, a DACA Recipient is a powerful in its clear-eyed optimism about an undocumented immigrant.
October 19, 2021
Pair with I Wish You Knew, immigration discussions, sharing circles and morning meetings. Focus: empathy, compassion, communication, and understanding
March 25, 2023
Lovely and important story!! The illustrations were my favorite
Content warning: racism
Content warning: racism
May 30, 2024
✨3.5✨
Lo estaba amando y después puff se acabó 😭 creo que pudo haber sido solo un poquitito de algo más
Lo estaba amando y después puff se acabó 😭 creo que pudo haber sido solo un poquitito de algo más
November 8, 2021
I need to know more of Areli’s story! I don’t know much about DACA and I wish this told the story of how she became a DACA recipient and what that means to her, but hopefully that’s a story for another book!
If you enjoy the art, I was excited to learn that this has the same illustrator as Your Name Is a Song, another beautiful and inclusive picture book.
If you enjoy the art, I was excited to learn that this has the same illustrator as Your Name Is a Song, another beautiful and inclusive picture book.
March 27, 2023
4.5 stars
if i didn't read the author's note at the beginning, i wouldn't have known this was about a DACA recipient. as far as children's books go, it's good but i don't think children will learn what it means to be a DACA recipient nor anything about the experience so having this revolve around that while never touching on it is a moot point. i'm wondering if someone higher up at random house kept this from being more because it wouldn't show the american government in a positive light (as it shouldn't). i would have liked to have a book to show kids that explains what it means to be a DACA recipient and/or trying to become one and the experience. i think that would've been a great way for areli is a dreamer to reach its full potential.
if i didn't read the author's note at the beginning, i wouldn't have known this was about a DACA recipient. as far as children's books go, it's good but i don't think children will learn what it means to be a DACA recipient nor anything about the experience so having this revolve around that while never touching on it is a moot point. i'm wondering if someone higher up at random house kept this from being more because it wouldn't show the american government in a positive light (as it shouldn't). i would have liked to have a book to show kids that explains what it means to be a DACA recipient and/or trying to become one and the experience. i think that would've been a great way for areli is a dreamer to reach its full potential.
April 23, 2025
Tears were in my eyes while reading this book. Areli Is a Dreamer by Areli Morales is an autobiography about her life while growing up. It was sad because of Areli’s connection to her family, culture, and country. It showed us what the life experiences are like for others who have to work extra hard when coming to America. One of the main themes in this book was immigration, identity, and belonging. In the case of Areli, she was battling being separated from her family because of her immigration status. She loved living in Mexico but had to move to America to be with her family. She was a DACA recipient who was allowed to live in the United States but hadn’t yet received citizenship. This leads me to the second theme, her pursuit of trying to fit in and adapt, as she was trying to figure out where she belonged in this foreign land. It was hard for her to navigate it, as she only knew a little English. The lesson that can be taken from this piece of literature is hope. Although she wasn’t a citizen, she was working hard in her studies and building a life for herself in New York. Another lesson is the importance of family and cultural ties. Areli had to move away from her home country, but she knew how privileged she was to have access to a great school, friends, family, and cultural experiences. Coming to America emphasized that even more, and she found her footing and valued her immediate family more because of their support and closeness. This is a “WOW” book for me because it shows how challenging it is to come to a new country, but the perseverance Areli had really inspired me to push myself further as I come from an immigrant family and am one of the only ones with citizenship.
The author Areli Morales shared her story so beautifully and articulated herself very well. The first-person narrative, even though it's written in third person, added so much to the credibility the author has. Areli was able to share her own feelings: “I don’t want to go to New York,” Areli said. “I want to stay here with you and my friends and my home.” Sharing these thoughts and ideas was intentional by the author to help us understand what it’s like for migrants. It captures her voice and emotions on how she viewed this migration. The second writer’s craft I noticed was character development. Although Morales was hesitant at first to be in New York, she placed her best foot forward. “I could do anything here,” Areli said to the city sky. “Someday, I will.” She worked extra hard to improve her English and learn more in topics such as history. Areli grew from not wanting to be in America to having the strength to persevere and hope for a better life. A literary device I noticed by Morales was symbolism when she said, “She pictured the millions of other people who had made the long journey to America and how Lady Liberty welcomed them with her shining torch.” This shows that Areli views the Statue of Liberty as a sense of hope and a symbol for a new beginning. We also see that she views it as acceptance of where she is and the life she now has. This book is an anti-bias book because it showcases Mexican culture and is also based on the real-life experiences of an immigrant’s voice and perspective on what it’s like living in or moving to America.
The author Areli Morales shared her story so beautifully and articulated herself very well. The first-person narrative, even though it's written in third person, added so much to the credibility the author has. Areli was able to share her own feelings: “I don’t want to go to New York,” Areli said. “I want to stay here with you and my friends and my home.” Sharing these thoughts and ideas was intentional by the author to help us understand what it’s like for migrants. It captures her voice and emotions on how she viewed this migration. The second writer’s craft I noticed was character development. Although Morales was hesitant at first to be in New York, she placed her best foot forward. “I could do anything here,” Areli said to the city sky. “Someday, I will.” She worked extra hard to improve her English and learn more in topics such as history. Areli grew from not wanting to be in America to having the strength to persevere and hope for a better life. A literary device I noticed by Morales was symbolism when she said, “She pictured the millions of other people who had made the long journey to America and how Lady Liberty welcomed them with her shining torch.” This shows that Areli views the Statue of Liberty as a sense of hope and a symbol for a new beginning. We also see that she views it as acceptance of where she is and the life she now has. This book is an anti-bias book because it showcases Mexican culture and is also based on the real-life experiences of an immigrant’s voice and perspective on what it’s like living in or moving to America.
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November 20, 2021“Areli is a Dreamer” is by Areli Morales and it is a true story about her experience as an undocumented immigrant. The story begins with Areli and her brother living in Mexico with their grandmother. Their parents were living and working in the United States. Areli’s brother was born in the United States so he was going to get to leave and live with their parents first. The parents would call every Sunday night to check on the children. Areli loved living in Mexico even after her brother left to live with their parents. Then the day came when a man came to take Areli to the United States to live with her parents. Areli and her family were joined together in New York. At first Areli’s experience in New York was not positive. Students in her school called her illegal, and she didn’t feel like she fit in because she only spoke Spanish. However, she worked hard and soon became proficient in English and loved school. It wasn’t until her class took a field trip to Ellis Island where she learned that living in New York was going to provide her with so many opportunities.
Immigration and the life of families living apart, before being joined together, is a very prominent aspect of the plot line. There are many aspects of this story that can be beneficial for students who come to America undocumented and for their peers in their classes. The whole experience Areli goes through from living in Mexico and not wanting to leave to moving to New York and trying to fit in at school can be a great mirror for some students. There is a part of this story that seems very important when Areli’s mom tries to tell her what illegal means. While the mother gives her a very basic definition, I can see how this part of the story might bring up other questions in the minds of students in similar situations. The part of this story that provides a window is when Areli starts to go to school in New York. This part of the story could bring up valuable discussion points on how Areli is feeling and what students in the current classroom could do to help other students with that similar situation to feel welcome. While this story only shows the side of Areli, I see how it would be a valuable book to use in the classroom. The discussions that can take place about looking at a situation from a different point of view and how to act would be important.
Immigration and the life of families living apart, before being joined together, is a very prominent aspect of the plot line. There are many aspects of this story that can be beneficial for students who come to America undocumented and for their peers in their classes. The whole experience Areli goes through from living in Mexico and not wanting to leave to moving to New York and trying to fit in at school can be a great mirror for some students. There is a part of this story that seems very important when Areli’s mom tries to tell her what illegal means. While the mother gives her a very basic definition, I can see how this part of the story might bring up other questions in the minds of students in similar situations. The part of this story that provides a window is when Areli starts to go to school in New York. This part of the story could bring up valuable discussion points on how Areli is feeling and what students in the current classroom could do to help other students with that similar situation to feel welcome. While this story only shows the side of Areli, I see how it would be a valuable book to use in the classroom. The discussions that can take place about looking at a situation from a different point of view and how to act would be important.
November 26, 2023
In this book, Areli is the main character who takes on the journey of discovering a new home. She lived in Mexico with her grandma, brother, and cousins. Her parents were living in New York, and one day sent to take Areli's brother with them. She was left all alone with her grandma. She started kindergarten and made many friends. However, she later found out she had to leave Mexico to go live with her parents and brother in New York. She did not want to leave because she was scared and wanted to stay with what she was accustomed to. A friend of her parents picked her up and took her to New York. When she got there she discovered that it is very different from Mexico. It was bigger, faster and noisier and she wasn't sure she liked that. This auto-biography book teaches children how change can be scary but it can be worth it and how the struggles can be overcome. Children always go through change, however, some children may go through a drastic change that forces them to make adjustments. This book can be used to show them that even though there are many challenges, you are able to belong in a completely different place. They can also learn that those challenges they face can be overcome with many tries. They can also learn how to treat others kindly because they don't know what they are going through like how Areli was being teased by the kids in her new school. This books was a WOW book for me because it explored the life a such a young girl who only knew what life was in Mexico and not in America. It dives deep into the change she had to face and the struggles that came with it while still being a book for a child. It captures how scared Areli is with moving and I connect with that since I had to move cities when I was younger.
The author used foreshadowing when the parents called Areli and her brother to show how they would soon move in with their parents. The author depicted this story in a straightforward manner because it is easier for children to read it. In reality, I think the author went through many more struggles than the ones written. The author used this story to teach children how immigrants come to America for a "better" life or for the "American Dream" and how it comes with many battles. This book is anti-bias because the author is the person in the book when she was younger. It depicts the way she viewed moving from one country to the other in the eyes of her childhood self. It is also anti-bias because it is accurate and appropriate to teach young children about change and how to treat others.
The author used foreshadowing when the parents called Areli and her brother to show how they would soon move in with their parents. The author depicted this story in a straightforward manner because it is easier for children to read it. In reality, I think the author went through many more struggles than the ones written. The author used this story to teach children how immigrants come to America for a "better" life or for the "American Dream" and how it comes with many battles. This book is anti-bias because the author is the person in the book when she was younger. It depicts the way she viewed moving from one country to the other in the eyes of her childhood self. It is also anti-bias because it is accurate and appropriate to teach young children about change and how to treat others.
April 27, 2022
Areli is a Dreamer is a true story where the author Areli recalls her journey from Mexica to New York. As well as what it's like to be a DACA Dreamer in the United States. I thought this book is great and very relevant to the times we live in currently. I think this story does a great job of both explainings how difficult it can be to be a Dreamer or immigrant but also the joys that come along with it. I think one of my favorite aspects was the book never stated that Areli was leaving Mexico because she lived a horrible life. In fact, her life in Mexico was quite normal and something she loved, her parents just believed she would have a better future in the U.S. I think this is great for changing the narrative that most American carry about immigrants.
I think this book should be read to older children. This book is quite long for children's books and covers a lot of heavy topics with heavy emotions. However, I did really love the illustrations and how the book incorporated some Spanish vocab. I love how realistic and raw this book was.
I think this book should be read to older children. This book is quite long for children's books and covers a lot of heavy topics with heavy emotions. However, I did really love the illustrations and how the book incorporated some Spanish vocab. I love how realistic and raw this book was.
Want to read
February 4, 2022Text-to Teaching Connection (Writing): Before reading the book I will ask the students: What do you think the book might be about?
Next: These are some questions that my motivated class will explore and discuss after reading this book. What have other people done to make you feel welcome? What did you say or do to make others feel welcome when they were new? What can you do differently to make others feel welcome and accepted? If you are an Immigrant, what similarities and differences do you have with Areli's story?
Finally, using their Chromebook, students will match the words with their meaning. For example, welcoming= treating someone in a friendly way when they are new.
Next: These are some questions that my motivated class will explore and discuss after reading this book. What have other people done to make you feel welcome? What did you say or do to make others feel welcome when they were new? What can you do differently to make others feel welcome and accepted? If you are an Immigrant, what similarities and differences do you have with Areli's story?
Finally, using their Chromebook, students will match the words with their meaning. For example, welcoming= treating someone in a friendly way when they are new.
November 28, 2021
Tells the story of a six year old girl who reluctantly leaves all she knows in Mexico to join her immediate family in NYC. She has her fears, faces taunting, and the difficulty of learning a new language. However, over the years she acclimates and learn to love her new country. After a trip to Ellis Island she realizes that she is part of a larger history: as the tour guide says "Almost every one of us has family that came to this country from a foreign land."
Written by a DACA recipient.
Written by a DACA recipient.
February 9, 2022
Beautiful illustrations guide young readers through the life experience of Areli as a young undocumented immigrant living in New York. It covers family separation, uncertainty, struggles to adapt to her new home and environment, her dedication to overcome obstacles, and the hopes she had for her future. I just wish the story included how Areli went on to become a DACA recipient and the life she leads now (in addition to the brief mention in the Author’s Note).
November 28, 2022
A great example of a biography is Areli Is a Dreamer. This book is about a young girl that explains how she went to America to join her family. Areli has trouble adjusting to America. She does not understand why her classmates call her mean names. I can use this book to teach children how many immigrants have trouble adjusting to life in America. This book is a WOW book because many children many not understand the struggles that immigrant children have.
The author used Areli's perspective to show how she thinks and feels. At first Areli didn't understand why she had to come to America. Then she understood it was for a better future.
The author used Areli's perspective to show how she thinks and feels. At first Areli didn't understand why she had to come to America. Then she understood it was for a better future.
February 1, 2025
childrens literature and related materials:
i think this is a really amazing book that depicts the reality of being a dreamer without sanitizing it :,) Also the way she misses her abuela reminded me of missing mine and that relationship. I think this is a great start to more depictions of what it’s like to be a dreamer and the immigrant experience in the United States
i think this is a really amazing book that depicts the reality of being a dreamer without sanitizing it :,) Also the way she misses her abuela reminded me of missing mine and that relationship. I think this is a great start to more depictions of what it’s like to be a dreamer and the immigrant experience in the United States
October 1, 2021
A well crafted picture book that shows how powerless children are and how they have to trust the adults in their lives to make the right decisions for them. It also shows how adaptable children are. I think young children will relate to it, especially if paired with other stories about moving.
December 22, 2021
Great book for building empathy and giving voice to many children who may be frightened by their citizenship status.
April 30, 2022
This book is wonderful in helping children of similar situations. This book really grasps the concept of adapting to a completely new environment, which lots of children go through.
April 13, 2023
Here is a summary of what happened in the book on Sundays Areli would wait for the phone to ring from her parents in America. Her parents can't go back to Mexico, her parents want to bring her to America. Her brother leaves to go to New York. Areli starts school in Mexico and makes friends and does not want to go to New York. Her Abuela tells Areli her parents send their friend to bring her to New York. Areli and her family hugged for a long time after she arrives to New York. At her new school, her classmates would tease her. She works hard in school to learn English and her school lessons. With time she realizes she can do anything in America. One of the major themes in the book was being resilient and hope as well as discrimination. The main genre of this book is and autobiography. Through reading this book, I learned about discrimination that Areli had to face because she was born in Mexico. I also learned about how hard she had to work to change her Mexican lifestyle to accommodate for an American lifestyle.
Some of the writing craft techniques that the author used in this book were descriptive language of objects and settings. An example of this was when the author uses"her shiny torch" to descriptive the statue of liberties torch. The author portrayed anti-bias perspectives in this book by writing the book about her own personal experiences. This book was about her journey to America as a Mexican and exploring all the possibilities that America has to offer.
Some of the writing craft techniques that the author used in this book were descriptive language of objects and settings. An example of this was when the author uses"her shiny torch" to descriptive the statue of liberties torch. The author portrayed anti-bias perspectives in this book by writing the book about her own personal experiences. This book was about her journey to America as a Mexican and exploring all the possibilities that America has to offer.
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September 15, 2021This book serves as a window into a life in Mexico for kindergartener Areli. There is Spanish vocabulary throughout the text as well as references to traditional Mexican dishes and games. The plot includes some big emotions for such a young girl relating to immigration and family. This is a true story that includes coping with moving away, encountering bullying, growing into two cultures, and feeling comfortable with one's self. The only thing I did not like about this book was that twice the author mentions that there is "no future" for our main character in Mexico. I feel that this put an unnecessary bad light on Mexico.
December 3, 2024
This is such a heartfelt story; you guys need to read!
In this book, we learn about Areli childhood and journey. Areli is an immigrant wanting to be with her family. Her and her brother started in Mexico while she had her parents and another little brother at New York. While staying with her Abuela she finally has the chance to go to her family in New York. We go through her experiences of overcoming obstacles of going to a new school and following her passion of staying in the US.
A major theme found in this story is perseverance. Areli had to overcome so many challenges. Such as leaving her Abuela in Mexico, learning a whole new language, overcoming bullies in her school calling her illegal. She continued despite her differences to become who she is and to work harder than everyone else. Another theme can be self-identity and the experience of being an immigrant. This story address what an immigrant would feel when going through the experience of traveling to a whole new side and world. New York came from many different immigrants and the impact of finding a home from a different cultural background. That support of a community brought out a different side of Areli and made her stronger than who she is.
The main genre of this book is biography.
Through reading this book, I learned that everyone is not accepting. In this world and society everyone does not agree upon the same thing. I think as ourselves if we know what is right and continue doing so, it should not matter what other people say. We are different and everyone else is but that should not stop us from doing what we need to because one person says so. Being different and embracing a different culture or experience should not be bothering other people. I also learned that people that immigrated to the US come for a different and brighter opportunity. They fight for a new life and want to bring that journey to the generation they have with them.
This book was a WOW book for me because I could relate and heard many stories like this from my parents and family that are older than me. It is insane how they started the same way and to create another opportunity just for us to survive better. I become more appreciative towards them.
The symbolism of the story with her cultural identity and her journey in this story. Areli dream did not start out positively until she learns and grew better than before. She still held on to her cultural heritage while adapting to a new life but also had to find a way to make her dream into a reality. Her achievement of moving to a new country is very inspiring. The tone and mood of the story also impacted how we feel emotionally about it. We can see her expression of sadness leaving her abuela and being bullied in school. Then to embrace who she is as a person and culturally. Growing and admiring her dreams.
I would consider this book to be an anti-bias book because it promotes and understanding of an immigrant experience. It challenges the stereotypes of being an immigrant and overcoming these challenges.
In this book, we learn about Areli childhood and journey. Areli is an immigrant wanting to be with her family. Her and her brother started in Mexico while she had her parents and another little brother at New York. While staying with her Abuela she finally has the chance to go to her family in New York. We go through her experiences of overcoming obstacles of going to a new school and following her passion of staying in the US.
A major theme found in this story is perseverance. Areli had to overcome so many challenges. Such as leaving her Abuela in Mexico, learning a whole new language, overcoming bullies in her school calling her illegal. She continued despite her differences to become who she is and to work harder than everyone else. Another theme can be self-identity and the experience of being an immigrant. This story address what an immigrant would feel when going through the experience of traveling to a whole new side and world. New York came from many different immigrants and the impact of finding a home from a different cultural background. That support of a community brought out a different side of Areli and made her stronger than who she is.
The main genre of this book is biography.
Through reading this book, I learned that everyone is not accepting. In this world and society everyone does not agree upon the same thing. I think as ourselves if we know what is right and continue doing so, it should not matter what other people say. We are different and everyone else is but that should not stop us from doing what we need to because one person says so. Being different and embracing a different culture or experience should not be bothering other people. I also learned that people that immigrated to the US come for a different and brighter opportunity. They fight for a new life and want to bring that journey to the generation they have with them.
This book was a WOW book for me because I could relate and heard many stories like this from my parents and family that are older than me. It is insane how they started the same way and to create another opportunity just for us to survive better. I become more appreciative towards them.
The symbolism of the story with her cultural identity and her journey in this story. Areli dream did not start out positively until she learns and grew better than before. She still held on to her cultural heritage while adapting to a new life but also had to find a way to make her dream into a reality. Her achievement of moving to a new country is very inspiring. The tone and mood of the story also impacted how we feel emotionally about it. We can see her expression of sadness leaving her abuela and being bullied in school. Then to embrace who she is as a person and culturally. Growing and admiring her dreams.
I would consider this book to be an anti-bias book because it promotes and understanding of an immigrant experience. It challenges the stereotypes of being an immigrant and overcoming these challenges.
May 5, 2025
Do you know what a Dreamer is? There are millions of dreamers like Areli in the US. In this book, Areli is a little girl who immigrated to the United States from Mexico. She was playing with her older brother in Mexico at her grandma’s house while her parents were already in the US. Her brother then went to New York first because he was a US citizen so he could fly back and forth, meanwhile Areli had to wait over a year. Areli was finally going to be sent to New York with her parents and she had a tough time saying goodbye to her grandma and her friends. Once in New York, Areli went to school where kids made fun of her for not knowing english and said that she was illegal. She then understood what it means to not be a US citizen. Over the years Areli has learned English and started to enjoy the city with her brother. She then understood that she could have a brighter future in the US. The major themes in the book were immigration and assimilation. I think that immigration is a major theme in the book because Areli immigrated from Mexico to New York. The book also touched upon Ellis Island where millions of immigrants land and start their lives in the US. I also think that assimilation is a major theme because when Areli immigrated to the US she did not know any English and soon she learned and started living a “US” life in part leaving her Mexican side home. The main genre of this book is an autobiography. Children reading this book could learn about the challenges immigrants face and to be compassionate with newcomers to the US. Children can learn from Areli’s experience coming to New York and what she went through at school. This book was a WOW book for me because I was able to connect on a deeper level since my parents were immigrants and they shared some similar experiences as Areli.
Two of the literary devices the author used in writing this book were symbolism and allusion. These literary devices added to the quality of the writing in this book by making the book fit into a bigger picture with immigration in the US. The author used symbolism to show how Areli’s story is connected to immigration as a whole. Areli’s story symbolizes courage and bravery because she left her home country and came to a completely new country with different customs. The author also used allusion when they spoke about Ellis Island. Ellis Island is a real place in New York where millions of immigrants are greeted by the Statue of Liberty and start their life in the US. This connects Areli’s story to a lot of other immigrant stories. Together these literary devices were able to give an in-depth understanding of immigration and immigrants throughout the book. The author portrayed anti-bias perspectives in this book because the book reflects the lived experiences of the author.
Two of the literary devices the author used in writing this book were symbolism and allusion. These literary devices added to the quality of the writing in this book by making the book fit into a bigger picture with immigration in the US. The author used symbolism to show how Areli’s story is connected to immigration as a whole. Areli’s story symbolizes courage and bravery because she left her home country and came to a completely new country with different customs. The author also used allusion when they spoke about Ellis Island. Ellis Island is a real place in New York where millions of immigrants are greeted by the Statue of Liberty and start their life in the US. This connects Areli’s story to a lot of other immigrant stories. Together these literary devices were able to give an in-depth understanding of immigration and immigrants throughout the book. The author portrayed anti-bias perspectives in this book because the book reflects the lived experiences of the author.
April 29, 2024
"Areli is a Dreamer" by Areli Morales. The story of the author’s experiences immigrating to the United States from Mexico as a young child. Her parents left Mexico when Areli when a little so she has lived with her grandmother ever since. Her parents had been away so long so when she talked to her parents she felt scared and felt like a stranger to them. Her parents called back to Mexico to let them know that they would leave Mexico for New York for a better life. Her parents would send someone who they know for years to take them to New York. Areli did not want to go and wanted to stay with her grandmother for the rest of her life. Abuela was too old to take of her and Mexico had no future. Areli was too young and afraid to move to a new environment. She came to the United States undocumented, and she could not speak any English. She was bullied at school and other friends laughed at her because her mom was a maid for their house. Areli was a smart girl, she tried to learn her lesson in a new language. She can count when she was in the second grade, she started to learn about the Constitution which other kids would never do. Areli can speak English fluently and I can travel the city by subway. In the fifth grade, Areli went on a field trip, and she realized there were many immigrants who came to America before her Areli does not feel like she is illegal but she feels New York is like her home. She is a part of America. After a while, Areli called back to Mexico and she understood why her grandmother wanted a better future for her. She dreamt of being a writer or teacher one day to help children in a new land. This story is very thoughtful, and it touches the bottom of my heart because it is based on the real story. A little girl never gives up and works hard every day to become a better version of herself. Her grandmother is her motivation. She also dreamed of being a writer or a teacher that way she can help other people. She used to fit in their shoes so she could feel it. This book is wow to me because it teaches me never to stop trying. I know it’s hard painful but I know if I try harder and I will make it. This picture book is an autobiography because she tells her own immigration story.
March 26, 2025
Summary:
Areli Is a Dreamer by Areli Morales is a heartfelt autobiographical picture book about Areli Morales’ journey as an undocumented immigrant in the United States. Born in Mexico, Areli lives with her grandmother while her parents work in the U.S. Eventually, she joins them, but adjusting to a new language, culture, and school is difficult. As she grows up, Areli faces challenges because of her undocumented status, but she also discovers her strength and resilience. Over time, she learns to embrace her identity as a "Dreamer"—a term for undocumented immigrants who came to the U.S. as children—and finds hope in her dreams for the future. (ChatGPT, March 25,2025)
Commentary:
Areli Is a Dreamer by Areli Morales is one of my favorite reads so far. As someone who knows many people that are DACA recipient, this book provides an authentic voice from the author. Arlei journey is a journey that many people have experienced before and are still experiencing. There are currently many young children that are ELLs and are navigating a new country. This book deals with immigration, family, hope and courage (Chat GPT, 2025) The illustrations in this book are another detail that I enjoyed about the book. The illustrator did an amazing job of portraying Areli home in Mexico and transitioning to a busy city in the U.S.
Application:
In my classroom this book is a must have. I would use this book when we talk about cultural awareness or perseverance. I would read-aloud the book and then have a class discussion about Areli navigating a new country. Another activity that I would like to incorporate will be having the students draw what Areli’s future will look like. The book appeals to be for “preschool-3rd” (Amazon, 2025), and I think that is the appropriate age group for this book. The illustrations are a big part of the book and I believe young readers will enjoy.
Areli Is a Dreamer by Areli Morales is a heartfelt autobiographical picture book about Areli Morales’ journey as an undocumented immigrant in the United States. Born in Mexico, Areli lives with her grandmother while her parents work in the U.S. Eventually, she joins them, but adjusting to a new language, culture, and school is difficult. As she grows up, Areli faces challenges because of her undocumented status, but she also discovers her strength and resilience. Over time, she learns to embrace her identity as a "Dreamer"—a term for undocumented immigrants who came to the U.S. as children—and finds hope in her dreams for the future. (ChatGPT, March 25,2025)
Commentary:
Areli Is a Dreamer by Areli Morales is one of my favorite reads so far. As someone who knows many people that are DACA recipient, this book provides an authentic voice from the author. Arlei journey is a journey that many people have experienced before and are still experiencing. There are currently many young children that are ELLs and are navigating a new country. This book deals with immigration, family, hope and courage (Chat GPT, 2025) The illustrations in this book are another detail that I enjoyed about the book. The illustrator did an amazing job of portraying Areli home in Mexico and transitioning to a busy city in the U.S.
Application:
In my classroom this book is a must have. I would use this book when we talk about cultural awareness or perseverance. I would read-aloud the book and then have a class discussion about Areli navigating a new country. Another activity that I would like to incorporate will be having the students draw what Areli’s future will look like. The book appeals to be for “preschool-3rd” (Amazon, 2025), and I think that is the appropriate age group for this book. The illustrations are a big part of the book and I believe young readers will enjoy.
May 2, 2022
"Areli Is a Dreamer" tells the true story of the author, Areli and Areli's immigration to America. Areli struggles with missing her parents who are working in America while she is not there. She leans on her brother and grandmother for support and struggles to understand why Alex, her brother, being born in America is allowed to come and go as he pleases, while she is expected to wait. When Areli finally learns that she is being given to opportunity to go to New York, she becomes scared and doesn't want to leave. Furthermore, Areli struggles with saying her good byes as she doesn't know when or if she will ever be able to see them again. This is a struggle many students face, and they will be able to relate to Areli's journey and her story.
The book continues to follow Areli's journey as she goes to America and she is hurt by students calling her "illegal" and other mean names. She begins to feel ashamed of her culture, a way she had never felt before. Areli asked her mom what children meant when they called her "illegal", a conversation many students have with their parents, and this book shows a positive facilitation of the conversation. This made Areli afraid she would be sent back and so she kept quiet about who she was and where she was from.
This book can open up a lot of discussion between students and their teacher about what immigration is and what it means to be an immigrant. There is also a lot of opportunities for students to learn about and discuss Latinx culture as well.
The book continues to follow Areli's journey as she goes to America and she is hurt by students calling her "illegal" and other mean names. She begins to feel ashamed of her culture, a way she had never felt before. Areli asked her mom what children meant when they called her "illegal", a conversation many students have with their parents, and this book shows a positive facilitation of the conversation. This made Areli afraid she would be sent back and so she kept quiet about who she was and where she was from.
This book can open up a lot of discussion between students and their teacher about what immigration is and what it means to be an immigrant. There is also a lot of opportunities for students to learn about and discuss Latinx culture as well.
September 21, 2023
The picture book “Areli is a Dreamer” by Areli Morales is about the experience of an immigrant child. The main character describes the emotional and physical struggles that immigrant families go through. For example, being separated from their families, language barriers, and bullying. Throughout the story, she explains her feelings of not belonging at first, then throughout time adapting to her new world. The theme of picture books I chose to read was on “Mexican Culture”, which is clearly represented in this book. This book brought perspective and representation to immigrant children and the struggles that they go through.
It is important for there to be books that represent a variety of experiences and ethnicities. Many children in America are immigrants and struggle with finding a place where they feel like they belong. In the article, “Mirrors, Windows, and Sliding Glass Doors”, the author states, “When children cannot find themselves reflected in the books they read, or when images are distorted, negative, or laughable, they learn a powerful lesson about how they are devalued in the society of which they are a part.” It is important that children are able to read books that serve as their “mirrors” in order to feel accepted and not isolated. Also, these books can be other children’s windows into different cultures. Educating children on cultures, other than their own, will have a great impact on how they treat others in minority grounds and will greatly increase their understanding of the world.
It is important for there to be books that represent a variety of experiences and ethnicities. Many children in America are immigrants and struggle with finding a place where they feel like they belong. In the article, “Mirrors, Windows, and Sliding Glass Doors”, the author states, “When children cannot find themselves reflected in the books they read, or when images are distorted, negative, or laughable, they learn a powerful lesson about how they are devalued in the society of which they are a part.” It is important that children are able to read books that serve as their “mirrors” in order to feel accepted and not isolated. Also, these books can be other children’s windows into different cultures. Educating children on cultures, other than their own, will have a great impact on how they treat others in minority grounds and will greatly increase their understanding of the world.
November 22, 2023
“Areli Is a Dreamer” is a perfect book for children who are 1st grade to 3rd grade. It's a nonfiction book that shows topics like culture and family. These are some things kids in those grades will enjoy and help them stay interested in the material.
It is especially inspiring to young children who just moved to America, and whose English is not their first language. This is a beautiful story of a mother and father who take their children to New York for a better life. The young girl struggled to speak English and her classmates accused her of being illegal. She had a couple of challenges, but that did not stop her from exploring till she became a New Yorker. This book is also great due to its representation of young children who struggle to come to America and are not good with English, and this young girl shows a Latino heroine.
I would choose this book for my classroom library since representation matters and to normalize being an immigrant. More specifically, it demonstrates young children who struggle with English and know that it is okay to not feel confident in themselves. This is incredibly important as there is an increasing amount of immigrant kids/children of immigrants in classrooms. It is a positive story of how this family had achieved so much and how she learned English by reading and learning new things. This book also gives many different messages, but the ones I truly love are how moving to a new country isn't so bad gives you better opportunities, and that even if hard you can make the best parts of it.
It is especially inspiring to young children who just moved to America, and whose English is not their first language. This is a beautiful story of a mother and father who take their children to New York for a better life. The young girl struggled to speak English and her classmates accused her of being illegal. She had a couple of challenges, but that did not stop her from exploring till she became a New Yorker. This book is also great due to its representation of young children who struggle to come to America and are not good with English, and this young girl shows a Latino heroine.
I would choose this book for my classroom library since representation matters and to normalize being an immigrant. More specifically, it demonstrates young children who struggle with English and know that it is okay to not feel confident in themselves. This is incredibly important as there is an increasing amount of immigrant kids/children of immigrants in classrooms. It is a positive story of how this family had achieved so much and how she learned English by reading and learning new things. This book also gives many different messages, but the ones I truly love are how moving to a new country isn't so bad gives you better opportunities, and that even if hard you can make the best parts of it.
December 2, 2023
Intended Audience: Preschool-3 grade. Ages between 5-8 years old. Includes Spanish and English.
This story is about a girl named Areli that lives with her grandma and extended family in Mexico. But her parents are in America. Areli has an older brother, Alex but he was born in America. He can easily travel back and forth from Mexico to New York. But Areli was born in Mexico, it was not as easy as for her brother. Her parents call them and let Areli know that they will get someone to go get her from Mexico soon. This made Areli upset because she did not want to go on her own. Soon Areli started school in Mexico and she made friends and she learned so many different things. The day arrived when Areli's parents'friend went to pick her up to bring her to America. She was scared, but she needed to be brave. Soon she arrived to New York with her family. But it took her a while to adjust, it was hard for Areli to communicate in school since she only spoke Spanish. But she studied hard to learn and understand English. Then in fifth grade Areli was taken on a field trip to Ellis Island and she learned that many immigrants like her had gone through a journey similar to hers.
I chose this book because I know some people who are DACA recipients. And I understand that the journey to get to America can be hard especially if you don't speak English. But being brave and strong to come to America to have better opportunities is what many immigrant families are looking for.
Lexile Measure: AD550L
This story is about a girl named Areli that lives with her grandma and extended family in Mexico. But her parents are in America. Areli has an older brother, Alex but he was born in America. He can easily travel back and forth from Mexico to New York. But Areli was born in Mexico, it was not as easy as for her brother. Her parents call them and let Areli know that they will get someone to go get her from Mexico soon. This made Areli upset because she did not want to go on her own. Soon Areli started school in Mexico and she made friends and she learned so many different things. The day arrived when Areli's parents'friend went to pick her up to bring her to America. She was scared, but she needed to be brave. Soon she arrived to New York with her family. But it took her a while to adjust, it was hard for Areli to communicate in school since she only spoke Spanish. But she studied hard to learn and understand English. Then in fifth grade Areli was taken on a field trip to Ellis Island and she learned that many immigrants like her had gone through a journey similar to hers.
I chose this book because I know some people who are DACA recipients. And I understand that the journey to get to America can be hard especially if you don't speak English. But being brave and strong to come to America to have better opportunities is what many immigrant families are looking for.
Lexile Measure: AD550L
March 28, 2024
Awards: Booklist and Kirkus starred reviews
Age Level: 4-8 years old - K-3
Summary: This tender biography about a young girl born in Mexico, and her family's journey to America, will surely move readers. Areli misses her parents since they left to America in seek of a better future. We follow Areli leaving her home she has known since birth, also leaving her Abuela, which she adores. At first, Areli does not understand why she has to leave her country, friends and family, but later she will have to learn how to adapt to a new home and start a new beginning.
The book seems to have a good transition from scene to scene. For example, one particular part of the story, the reader learns that Areli's brother has to leave to Nueva York first but Areli will not. Then, the next scene shows, Alex, Areli's brother pack up to leave Mexico. Again, Areli is too young to understand all of the major changes happening to her. In her new home, Areli goes through bullying and that affects her spirit. Will she be able to make friends? Learn English?
I wish more of Areli's DACA experience was described in more detail and what it is to be a DACA recipient and its process. The author's note discusses in some detail the process but I wish it was included in the story.
Rationale: I would use this book with my students as I have many newcomers that join my classroom. We can discuss adaptation and having optimism. Discussions on: How similar or different are your experiences from Areli's?
Age Level: 4-8 years old - K-3
Summary: This tender biography about a young girl born in Mexico, and her family's journey to America, will surely move readers. Areli misses her parents since they left to America in seek of a better future. We follow Areli leaving her home she has known since birth, also leaving her Abuela, which she adores. At first, Areli does not understand why she has to leave her country, friends and family, but later she will have to learn how to adapt to a new home and start a new beginning.
The book seems to have a good transition from scene to scene. For example, one particular part of the story, the reader learns that Areli's brother has to leave to Nueva York first but Areli will not. Then, the next scene shows, Alex, Areli's brother pack up to leave Mexico. Again, Areli is too young to understand all of the major changes happening to her. In her new home, Areli goes through bullying and that affects her spirit. Will she be able to make friends? Learn English?
I wish more of Areli's DACA experience was described in more detail and what it is to be a DACA recipient and its process. The author's note discusses in some detail the process but I wish it was included in the story.
Rationale: I would use this book with my students as I have many newcomers that join my classroom. We can discuss adaptation and having optimism. Discussions on: How similar or different are your experiences from Areli's?
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