The Coquies Still Sing: A Story of Home, Hope, and Rebuilding
A resilient family rebuilds after the devastation of Hurricane María. “Co-quí, co-quí. Oh, how I love thee!” Elena sings in response to Puerto Rico’s native coquí frogs, which live in the mango tree beside her family’s house. After dark, the air fills with the sound of their song. But this evening, the wind is stronger than usual. There’s a hurricane on the way, and the family must prepare. As rain pours and wind howls, Papi comforts Elena with her song, “Co-quí, co-quí. Oh, how I love thee.” Afterward, the family surveys the damage. The storm has taken their roof and garden and stripped the mango tree. They are without electricity, water, and access to the road. But they are alive. Together with her family and their community, Elena helps clean up, plant seeds, and share food. When things feel hard, the still-living mango tree brings comfort; like Elena, its roots are strong. Finally, buds appear on the tree once again, and although “home has forever changed,” the familiar sound of the coquíes’ song has returned. Back matter provides additional information about the injustices many Puerto Ricans continue to face after Hurricane María. Ultimately hopeful, this story is nonetheless honest in its portrayal of the hurricane’s devastation on Puerto Rico and its inhabitants. ©2022 Cooperative Children’s Book Center
Illustrated by Krystal Quiles
CCBC Age Recommendation: Ages 4-8
Age Range:
PreK-Early Elementary (Ages 4-7)
Grades 3-5 (Ages 8-10)
Format:
Picture book
Subjects:
Community
Families
Hope and Healing
Natural Disasters
Puerto Ricans
Resiliency
Weather
Diversity subject:
Latine
Publisher:
Roaring Brook
Publish Year: 2022
Pages: 40
ISBN: 9781250787187
CCBC Location: Picture Book, Gonzalez