by Jesús Trejo, Illustrated by Eliza Kinkz
Minerva
6/7/2023, hardcover
SKU: 9781662651045
Is this jug really magical? In Mexican American comedian Jesús Trejo's debut picture book, little Jesús makes a big, funny mistake as he works alongside his landscaper papá, but father and son find a heartwarming solution.
Little Jesús is excited to spend a Saturday with his landscaper Papá at the "family business." He loves Papá's cool truck and all the tools he gets to use. Papá even puts him in charge of the magical water jug, which is also a clock! When it's empty, Papá explains, the workday will be done. It's a big job, and Jesús wants to do it right. But he just can't help giving water to an array of thirsty animals--a dog in a sweater, some very old cats, and a flock of peacocks. Before he knows it, the magical water jug is empty --but the workday's not over yet! Will Jesús be fired?! Or is the jug not really magical after all? This mischievous tale of a very young comedian's life lesson will warm hearts and have class clowns, practical jokers, and all high-spirited kids nodding in sympathy.
Targeted age: 4 to 8
Reviews:
"A marvelous portrait of a working-class Latine family... brims with humorous, childlike observations... this tale of a loving father-son relationship radiates pure warmth. Kinkz's scrappy watercolor-blended artwork bursts with bright colors and amusing details, matching its tiny hero's chaotic spirit. Gleefully fun." -- Kirkus Reviews, starred
"Vividly written... Exuberantly scribbled drawings give the animated prose an exuberant immediacy and plenty of heart." -- Publishers Weekly, starred
About the Contributors:
Jesús Trejo is a comedian, the creator of the Showtime special Stay at Home Son, and an actor on the Netflix series Mr. Iglesias and the TV Land series Teachers. Jesús is also the host of the web series Tacos Con Todo, in which he navigates the L.A. taco scene with celebrity guests. Born and raised in Long Beach, California, where he still lives, Jesús appears regularly at international comedy festivals and stand-up venues.
Eliza Kinkz is a Tejana illustrator whose debut picture book was Goldie's Guide to Grandchilding, written by Clint McElroy. Eliza has worked on TV shows, music videos, and most happily on her own award-winning animated films. Eliza lives in Austin, Texas.