Lucky's Lick by Mary Esparza-Vela, with Artwork by Denis Proulx

Lucky’s Lick, by Mary Esparza-Vela, with artwork by Denis Proulx, is an uplifting story of a little boy paralyzed due to an accident. When the story begins, Juanito is waiting for his friends to come to his birthday party. He’s in a wheelchair because of the damage he’s suffered – he misses his active life, but his spirit remains positive. 

 

Juanito finds things to enjoy in daily living, as his mother tirelessly continues his healing physical therapy – she never loses faith. At his party, he gets the superhero gifts he wanted, but he gets something else, a sweet little puppy from his Uncle Frank. Juanito names his puppy Lucky. The title of the story comes from little Lucky licking Juanito’s toes and that lick shows them something wonderful!

The artwork by Denis Proulx is cheerful, upbeat, and animated. You see the loving world Juanito lives in. His happy face is wide open for all the world to see. Except for the one picture where he’s sad that he can’t play ball with his friends, most of the artwork clearly shows Juanito’s joy in living.

Children everywhere will empathize with Juanito’s plight – being sidelined due to an injury. What makes this story special is the love that permeates it. Juanito’s family and friends are all there for him in his struggle to regain the use of his legs. Children with disabilities and obstacles to overcome will appreciate Juanito’s struggle and his family’s persistence and support.

Most of Mary Esparza-Vela’s picture books are translated into Spanish and this one will be, too. This is a good one to share the love across international and cultural lines. The message of faith, hope, love, and never giving up comes across loud and clear.

Author: Mary Esparza-Vela www.marysdollsandbooks.com

Available from www.guardianangelpublishing.com/luckys-lick.htm