THE MANY FACES OF MAX / LAS MUCHAS CARAS DE MAX

A gentle, extremely simple story shows various emotions experienced by a beloved family pet, with parallel texts in English and Spanish.

Max is a large, tan dog with darker brown markings, well loved by the little girl and boy who own him. Each page of the story focuses on a different feeling or action voiced briefly by the dog, with each emotion reflected on his expressive face. He feels silly, laughs with his friends, cries when he is hurt and is joyful when his family returns. Young children who are becoming aware of their own emotions and the feelings of others will learn the words that describe their own emotions as they follow Max through his day, with a feel-good ending showing how much he is loved. Bold illustrations in a naive, childlike style use broad brushstrokes, with a close focus showing the texture of the paint and canvas. The simplicity of the story, engaging illustrations and dual English/Spanish text offer a wide range of uses for this attractive offering. Bilingual classrooms, libraries and beginning Spanish classes will all find a place for Max and his spectrum of feelings.

“Max is always loveable. / Max siempre es muy simpático.” (Bilingual picture book. 2-8)