Dreamers

In 1994, Yuyi Morales arrived in the United States with her infant son. She had left nearly everything she owned behind, but she carried what mattered most: her hopes, her stories, her strength and her determination. Dreamers is her picture book memoir of that journey and of building a life in an unfamiliar country.

The book follows a newcomer finding her footing in a place where nothing is familiar, and discovering the best of it along the way. Rather than dwelling on what was lost, it celebrates the things migrants bring with them: resilience, history, family and dreams. It offers a quiet promise that even in dark times, people can build better tomorrows.

Morales's lyrical text is paired with richly detailed, symbol-filled illustrations. Their imagery, textures and mementos give the story depth, and the book speaks to anyone who has had to start over somewhere new. Its message that we are all dreamers, carrying our strengths wherever we go, feels timely and lasting at once.

Back matter includes a short autobiographical essay by Morales about her own experience, a list of books that inspired her, and notes on the materials and images she used to make the book. A Spanish-language edition, Soñadores, is also available.