“Where the big velvet roses bloom / red and pink and fuschia, / where the accordion plays sassy and sweet… THAT’s my barrio. ” A young Latina girl goes on to describe the tinkly arrival of the paleta wagon in her neighborhood. The ice-cold popsicle comes in a rainbow of colors and flavors that makes for tough decisions (“Strawberry? Or coconut?”) and many opportunities. With a paleta you “paint your tongue purple and green” or cool off on a hot day. A paleta can be an offering of friendship or a teasing way to win a baseball game. Carmen Tafolla’s delectable story appeals to the senses with its rich imagery and crisp language. Sun-warmed, richly colored illustrations by Magaly Morales further bring the little girl’s vibrant Latino community to life. Winner, 2010 Charlotte Zolotow Award (Ages 3–6)

As she strolls through her barrio, a young girl introduces readers to the frozen, fruit-flavored treat that thrills Mexican and Mexican-American children.
 
In this bilingual paperback edition, discover the joys of a paleta—the traditional Mexican popsicle treat sold from the wagon with the tinkly bell that brings children running from every direction. Create a masterpiece, make tough choices (strawberry or coconut?), or cool off on a warm summer’s day—there’s so much to do with a paleta.