PICADILLO FOR PAULINA

Nana always cooks her beef picadillo with mucho mucho amor—lots and lots of love.

Paulina spends her birthday on a farm surrounded by the sweet and friendly animalitos she adores: rabbits, a pony, a llama, a lamb, and more. That night, at a large family dinner, Nana serves her famous picadillo, but Paulina surprises everyone by refusing it. Her family reacts with disbelief until Nana gently pulls Paulina aside to ask what’s wrong. Paulina bravely explains that she loves animals too much to continue eating them. Nana responds with warmth and understanding, supporting Paulina as she shares with the rest of the family that she is now a vegetarian. Though the family members are devoted meat eaters, they accept Paulina’s choice with love. Nana even promises to create a tofu version of her famous picadillo, with Paulina serving as the official taste tester. There is mucho mucho amor all around. Mother-and-son team—and devoted vegetarians—Behar and Frye-Behar have penned a heartfelt story that encourages readers to honor their values, even when their choices differ from those of their family. Medina’s warm, playful illustrations capture the joy of a close-knit Cuban family and the comfort of being accepted for who you are. Paulina’s grandparents and her family are depicted with a range of brown skin tones.

A hopeful story about acceptance and family ties.