A picture book debut by an award-winning author about a boy’s
life on the U.S.-Mexico border, visiting his favorite places on The
Other Side with his father, spending time with family and friends,
and sharing in the responsibility of community care.
Early one Saturday
morning, a boy prepares for a trip to The Other Side/El Otro Lado.
It’s close–just down the street from his school–and it’s a
twin of where he lives. To get there, his father drives their truck
along the Rio Grande and over a bridge, where they’re greeted by a
giant statue of an eagle. Their outings always include a meal at
their favorite restaurant, a visit with Tío Mateo at his jewelry
store, a cold treat from the paletero, and a pharmacy pickup. On
their final and most important stop, they check in with friends
seeking asylum and drop off much-needed supplies.
My Two Border
Towns by David Bowles, with stunning watercolor illustrations by
Erika Meza, is the loving story of a father and son’s weekend
ritual, a demonstration of community care, and a tribute to the
fluidity, complexity, and vibrancy of life on the U.S.-Mexico border.
