Reviews
★"The beautiful watercolor and digital illustrations convey a peaceful hike surrounded by nature, with flashbacks to the mother’s youth and their family in Brazil surrounded by cloudlike swirls. The lovely text perfectly explains what saudade means; children will likely find they understand it even if they’ve never heard the term. ... Highly recommended for all picture book collections." —School Library Journal, STARRED Review
“A poignant exploration of longing and connection.”—Kirkus Reviews
"This makes an excellent fit into SEL lessons, expanding emotional vocabulary and exploring the way languages can broaden and enrich our inner lives.”—The Bulletin of the Center for Children’s Books
The Story
Hiking in the hills, a little girl and her Brazilian immigrant mother contemplate what makes them feel saudade. A cool salty breeze miles from the ocean; the smell of Mamãe’s perfume; memories of playing with cousins under trees or waterfalls, riding waves with grandparents who are now stuck in the square of a video call. Though deeply woven through Brazilian music and literature, saudade is a familiar companion to us all. Readers who live far from loved ones or have adopted new homes will especially connect with this exploration of nostalgia and yearning.
Illustrated by André Ceolin | Neal Porter Books/Holiday House, New York, NY (June, 2024) | ISBN: 9780823452293
Accolades & Etc.
HONORS
A Junior Library Guild Gold Standard Selection
Starred Review, School Library Journal
A 2025 CCBC Choice (Global Reading)
LISTED or FEATURED IN
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The Brasilians: Brazilian Immigrant Releases Children’s Book About “Saudade”
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BookRiot: Board Books, Patterns, and More Great Kids’ Books!
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BG Independent News: Children's Author to Visit Sofia Quintero Art and Cultural Center
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Achei USA: Imigrante Brasileira nos EUA Lança Livro Infantil sobre Saudade