Welcome Home, Esmerelda

From a military family, Esmerelda discovers that home is where she's always welcomed--thanks to music, dance, and the big, unconditional love from her extended family.

An ideal picture book for kindergarteners and 1st graders who are moving, need reassurances during a transition, and could use the reminder that home is family.

Papa's job in the military has taken Esmerelda and her family all over the world--and yet she's never lived in the United States. Now she and her family are moving to San Antonio, Texas.

Although many of her extended family members live there, Esmerelda is unsure it'll feel like home. Even more, she's unsure she will fit in. Gradually, music and her sweet abuela spark bravery and the realization that home is not always a place--it's familia.

Heartwarming and hopeful, Welcome Home, Esmerelda will provide reassurance to any kid that while moving and change are difficult, you have the support of loved ones to help you through it.

"Every so often, a character resonates with readers of all ages. Esmerelda reminds us that home is in the heart--and in music. And if we listen closely, our favorite songs will always meet us on the dance floors of our lives, right when we're ready to feel the beat again."
--Antwan Eady, author of Nigel and the Moon and The Last Stand

"With lyrical text and cumbia energy, Welcome Home Esmerelda is full of beautiful layers of encouragement and familia love as well as the treasured lines spoken by Abuela, "Home is not always a place. Home is a feeling in your heart." Get ready to fall in love!"
--Kim Tomsic, award-winning author

"Daniela Ramirez crafts a heartfelt ode to the sacrifices of military families, Chicano heritage, and the power of music. . . . [A] stunning, tender celebration of identity, belonging, and the music that ties us to those we love."
--María Dolores Águila, author of Barrio Rising

Author: Daniela Ramirez
Publisher: Charlesbridge Publishing
Published: 05/13/2025
Pages: 32
Binding Type: Hardcover
Weight: 0.85lbs
Size: 9.20h x 9.00w x 0.50d
ISBN: 9781623543907
Audience: Ages 4-8


Review Citation(s):
Kirkus Reviews 03/15/2025
School Library Journal 09/05/2025 pg. 1
Booklist 08/04/2025

About the Author
Daniela Ramirez has a passion for writing books for children. She is Mexican American and excited to share her culture. Daniela loves writing Latine characters and wishes to inspire her own children. She is married to her college sweetheart, is a military spouse, and currently resides in New Mexico.

As a child, Maribel Lechuga spent every quiet hour of the day drawing. She studied illustration in art school in Madrid and is now the illustrator of many children's books, including, Night Owl Night, Ten Beautiful Things, and Seaside Stroll. Maribel loves the environment and animals and recharges her batteries by hiking through the Spanish hills. www.maribellechuga.com