Why You Should Read Dreamers by Yuyi Morales
Some picture books are cute, some are sweet, and then there are those rare gems that hit you right in the feels while dazzling your eyeballs at the same time. Dreamers by Yuyi Morales is one of those gems. Honestly, if you haven’t cracked it open yet, you’re in for something special, it’s not just a children’s book, it’s an experience.
This book tells the real life journey of author and illustrator Yuyi Morales as she moved from Mexico to the United States with her baby son. That alone could be a whole novel, but Morales has distilled it into a breath taking picture book that weaves culture, hope, and imagination together in a way that feels both intimate and universal.
Let me tell you, this isn’t one of those quiet, bedtime only reads. Oh no! This is a stop and stare, flip back to the beginning, point at all the details, and maybe get a little teary eyed kind of read.
Why Families Will Fall in Love with Dreamers
It’s real and relatable:
Morales doesn’t shy away from the harder parts of her journey. Leaving home, entering a new country, not understanding the language, feeling out of place. These are challenges many families know all too well. Kids might not fully grasp the complexities of immigration, but they do understand what it feels like to be new, nervous, or different. That’s the beauty of Dreamers, it helps kids empathize with experiences they might not have lived themselves.
The magic of libraries:
Okay, hands up, who remembers the first time they walked into a library and felt like they’d stumbled into Narnia? Morales captures that wonder perfectly. The library becomes her safe haven, a place where she and her son can explore countless worlds, ideas, and stories. It’s a subtle but powerful reminder to kids (and adults) that books aren’t just entertainment, they’re lifelines.
Mexican culture, front and centre:
The illustrations are like a treasure hunt. Monarch butterflies flutter across the pages, Día de los Muertos skeletons peek from the corners, embroidered hearts and vivid patterns bring the pages to life. It’s art you can feel, and it’s an introduction to Mexican culture that’s rich, respectful, and joyful. Even if your family has no ties to Mexico, these cultural threads weave a beautiful story of pride and heritage.
Conversation starter central:
Whether your family is talking about moving houses, starting a new school, or simply learning to embrace change, this book opens doors to big meaningful conversations. It also sparks chats about celebrating your roots and honouring where you come from, no matter where you are.
What Makes Dreamers Stand Out
Let’s talk about the artwork, because WOW. Morales uses a mix of her own photos, hand drawn illustrations, and textures inspired by Mexican folk art. The result? Every single page feels alive, like you’re holding a piece of her story in your hands.
It’s bold. It’s detailed and it’s layered. You could read this book ten times and still find a hidden butterfly or symbol you missed before. Kids adore the colours and energy, while parents appreciate the depth and cultural significance.
And here’s the kicker, while this book is grounded in Mexican heritage, its message is universal. No matter where we come from, we all carry our stories, our culture, and our dreams with us. That’s something every reader, young or old can connect with. Check out our in depth blog about the illustrations of this wonderful book HERE.
Why This Book Belongs on Your Shelf
Here’s the thing, Dreamers isn’t just a picture book, it’s a keepsake, the kind of story your kids will remember when they’re older. A book that will make them fall in love with libraries, or helped them feel brave about being new, or taught them that their dreams have value.
It’s also one of those rare reads that hits just as hard for adults as it does for children. Parents will see themselves in Morales’ journey of resilience, hope, and belonging. Kids will see a world exploding with imagination and possibility.
So, should you add Dreamers to your collection? Absolutely. Whether you’re looking for a bedtime story, a conversation starter, or just a book that feels like a piece of art, this one ticks every box.
Dreamers is more than a book—it’s a reminder that our stories matter, our cultures are worth celebrating, and our dreams can carry us anywhere. And if that isn’t bookshelf-worthy, I don’t know what is.