{"id":9069176717549,"title":"Ways Papi Says I Love You","handle":"ways-papi-says-i-love-you","description":"\u003ch6\u003eComing March 24, 2026. Pre-order today!\u003c\/h6\u003e\n\u003c!-- - - - - - - - ENTER AUTHOR\/ILLUSTRATOR INFO BELOW - - - - - - - --\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBy: \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/delia-ruiz\"\u003eDelia Ruiz\u003c\/a\u003e \/ Illustrated by: \n\u003ca href=\"\/pages\/carlos-velez-aguilera\"\u003eCarlos Vélez Aguilera\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c!-- - - - - - - - ENTER HEADING BELOW - - - - - - - --\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\u003cb data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eHow many ways can Papi say \u003ci\u003eI love you\u003c\/i\u003e without saying the words?\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003c!-- - - - - - - - ENTER DESCRIPTION BELOW - - - - - - - --\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhen Papi, who is always busy working at el rancho, asks Maricruz to jump in the truck with him to go get groceries for Mami, she grabs the list and sprints! During the drive, they wave to the people in their community and enjoy each other's company. But when they make a turn down a particularly bumpy road, they lose their grocery list. Fortunately, an unexpected friend shows up to save the day!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eInspired by the author’s own truck rides with her father through a ranch in Mexico, \u003ci\u003eWays Papi Says I Love You\u003c\/i\u003e connects the love languages between a father and daughter and shows the many ways love can be expressed and received.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c!-- - - - - - - - - - - - ENTER RECOMMENDATIONS BELOW - - - - - - - -- - - --\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"recommended-books\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIf you like this book, you’ll enjoy these: \u003cbr\u003e\u003ca href=\"\/products\/giddy-up-unicorn\"\u003eGiddy Up, Unicorn!\u003c\/a\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003ca href=\"\/products\/abuelita-and-i-make-flan\"\u003eAbuelita and I Make Flan\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c!-- - - - - - - - - - - - START OF TABS - - - - - - - -- - - --\u003e [TABS]\n\u003ch5\u003eLook Inside\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0750\/0101\/files\/ways-papi-says-i-love-you-spread.jpg?v=1753300531\" style=\"display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;\" class=\"cvr-border-gray\"\u003e\u003c!-- Please call pinit.js only once per page --\u003e \u003cscript type=\"text\/javascript\" async=\"\" defer data-pin-shape=\"round\" data-pin-height=\"32\" data-pin-hover=\"true\" src=\"\/\/assets.pinterest.com\/js\/pinit.js\"\u003e\u003c\/script\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c!-- - - - - - - - - - - ENTER DOWNLOADABLES BELOW - - - - - - - - - - --\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eDownloadables\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"medium-cover\"\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0750\/0101\/files\/ways-papi-says-i-love-you-cover.jpg?v=1753300530\" alt=\"\"\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"btn-wrapper\"\u003e\u003ca class=\"product-btn\" href=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0750\/0101\/files\/ways-papi-says-i-love-you-cover-hires.tif.zip?v=1754423466\"\u003eDownload the Cover\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c!-- - - - - - - - - - - - ENTER AUTHOR BIO BELOW - - - - - - - - - --\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAuthor \u0026amp; Illustrator\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDelia Ruiz, author\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDelia Ruiz is the author of several children's books, including the ¡123 Baila! board book series and \u003ci\u003eRoqui’s Pandero Beat\u003c\/i\u003e, an International Latino Book award-winner. Delia enjoys creating teacher materials and is also a books reviewer on social media, where she showcases diverse books. She currently resides in Los Angeles with her husband, baby boy, and pug. Delia hopes to inspire the next generation of writers who also come from immigrant households.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"\/pages\/delia-ruiz\"\u003eRead more \u003c\/a\u003eabout Delia.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c!-- - - - - - - ENTER ILLUSTRATOR BIO BELOW - - - - - - - - - - - --\u003e \u003cbr\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCarlos Vélez Aguilera, illustrator\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCarlos Vélez Aguilera is an award-winning illustrator from Mexico City, Mexico, who has a degree from the National University Autonomous of Mexico. He has illustrated more than twenty children's books, including \u003ci\u003eLa Mala Suerte Is Following Me\u003c\/i\u003e, and he’s the author\/illustrator of \u003ci\u003eSalón Destino\u003c\/i\u003e. Carlos has been recognized with two illustration awards from the International Children's and Youth Book Fair in Mexico. https:\/\/yeonagency.com\/carlos-velez-aguilera\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"\/pages\/carlos-velez-aguilera\"\u003eRead more\u003c\/a\u003e about Carlos.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c!-- - - - - - - - - ENTER AWARDS \u0026 HONORS BELOW - - - - - - - - --\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAwards \u0026amp; Honors\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eComing soon!\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c!-- - - - - - - - - - ENTER REVIEWS BELOW - - - - - - - - - --\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eEditorial Reviews\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cblockquote\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ci\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0750\/0101\/files\/star-fade.gif?4673889858015672850\"\u003e \u003cstrong\u003eSchool Library Journal\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/i\u003e, starred review\u003c\/p\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eA perfect bilingual story, in Spanish and English editions, that celebrates the many ways love can be shown without using words. The story follows Maricruz and her papi on a trip to the store in their truck, but through each small moment, readers see the quiet and powerful ways that Papi says “I love you.” Aguilera’s emotive and painterly illustrations are full of color and movement, reflecting the warmth of the Mexican setting through its architecture, markets, and everyday life. The subtlety of exploring the different love languages through touch, acts of service, and words of affirmation combine to remind readers that love isn’t always demonstrated with spoken words but can be presented through the ­smallest actions. A helpful vocabulary page at the end reinforces the bilingual learning. Maricruz and her family have brown skin. VERDICT These heartfelt, inclusive, and visually rich works should be added to all libraries and would make great read-alouds at home or during a story time.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/blockquote\u003e\n\u003cblockquote\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003ci\u003eKirkus Reviews\u003c\/i\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eMaricruz’s papi works long hours during the week.\u003cbr\u003e\nOn weekends, however, he’s home and ready for their special outings in his trusty pickup truck. Maricruz takes charge of the grocery list as they head to the store, and Papi makes sure her seatbelt is fastened, just one of the many small ways he shows his love. Maricruz treasures their time together: visiting her tía’s house, cruising around the courtyard plaza, and driving through a muddy arroyo. Throughout the day, Papi quietly demonstrates his affection through gentle words and thoughtful behaviors. Though he never says “I love you,” his care is unmistakable. Centering Maricruz’s perspective, this is a heartfelt reflection on how love can be shown through actions rather than words. It’s a warm reminder of the value of quality time with a parent. Aguilera’s vibrant, richly colored illustrations bring the day to life, capturing both the beauty of the landscape and the warmth of their father\/daughter bond. Ruiz’s author’s note at the end introduces the concept of love languages and explores the different ways people show they care about those they love. Maricruz and her papi are Latine, with brown skin and hair; Spanish vocabulary is woven naturally throughout the text.\u003cbr\u003e\nA tender celebration of love expressed through everyday moments. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/blockquote\u003e\n\u003c!-- - - - - - - - - - - - ENTER DETAILS BELOW - - - - - - - - - - - --\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eDetails\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEnglish Hardcover\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eISBN: 978-1-62354-630-4\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSpanish Hardcover\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eISBN: 978-1-62354-631-1\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAges: 3–7\u003cbr\u003ePage count: 32\u003cbr\u003e10 x 8\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003ePublication date: March 24, 2026\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n[\/TABS]","published_at":"2025-10-07T12:21:03-04:00","created_at":"2025-08-05T15:46:30-04:00","vendor":"Charlesbridge","type":"Children's Book","tags":["Browse by Age_Ages 3-6","Browse by Fiction\/Nonfiction_Fiction","Browse by Format_Picture Book","Browse by Language_English","Browse by Subject_Life Lessons \u0026 Skills","Browse by Subject_Story Time \u0026 Play"],"price":1799,"price_min":1799,"price_max":1799,"available":true,"price_varies":false,"compare_at_price":null,"compare_at_price_min":0,"compare_at_price_max":0,"compare_at_price_varies":false,"variants":[{"id":48505233899757,"title":"English Hardcover","option1":"English Hardcover","option2":null,"option3":null,"sku":"46304","requires_shipping":true,"taxable":false,"featured_image":{"id":44407937302765,"product_id":9069176717549,"position":1,"created_at":"2025-07-23T15:55:29-04:00","updated_at":"2025-08-05T16:12:46-04:00","alt":null,"width":600,"height":485,"src":"\/\/charlesbridgemoves.com\/cdn\/shop\/files\/ways-papi-says-i-love-you-cover.jpg?v=1754424766","variant_ids":[48505233899757]},"available":true,"name":"Ways Papi Says I Love You - English Hardcover","public_title":"English Hardcover","options":["English Hardcover"],"price":1799,"weight":567,"compare_at_price":null,"inventory_quantity":10,"inventory_management":"shopify","inventory_policy":"continue","barcode":"9781623546304","featured_media":{"alt":null,"id":36245355004141,"position":1,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":1.237,"height":485,"width":600,"src":"\/\/charlesbridgemoves.com\/cdn\/shop\/files\/ways-papi-says-i-love-you-cover.jpg?v=1754424766"}},"requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_allocations":[]},{"id":48505246646509,"title":"Spanish Hardcover","option1":"Spanish Hardcover","option2":null,"option3":null,"sku":"46311","requires_shipping":true,"taxable":false,"featured_image":{"id":44407937335533,"product_id":9069176717549,"position":2,"created_at":"2025-07-23T15:55:29-04:00","updated_at":"2025-08-05T16:12:46-04:00","alt":null,"width":600,"height":484,"src":"\/\/charlesbridgemoves.com\/cdn\/shop\/files\/las-maneras-en-que-papi-dice-te-quiero-cover.jpg?v=1754424766","variant_ids":[48505246646509]},"available":true,"name":"Ways Papi Says I Love You - Spanish Hardcover","public_title":"Spanish Hardcover","options":["Spanish Hardcover"],"price":1799,"weight":567,"compare_at_price":null,"inventory_quantity":10,"inventory_management":"shopify","inventory_policy":"continue","barcode":"9781623546311","featured_media":{"alt":null,"id":36245355036909,"position":2,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":1.24,"height":484,"width":600,"src":"\/\/charlesbridgemoves.com\/cdn\/shop\/files\/las-maneras-en-que-papi-dice-te-quiero-cover.jpg?v=1754424766"}},"requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_allocations":[]}],"images":["\/\/charlesbridgemoves.com\/cdn\/shop\/files\/ways-papi-says-i-love-you-cover.jpg?v=1754424766","\/\/charlesbridgemoves.com\/cdn\/shop\/files\/las-maneras-en-que-papi-dice-te-quiero-cover.jpg?v=1754424766"],"featured_image":"\/\/charlesbridgemoves.com\/cdn\/shop\/files\/ways-papi-says-i-love-you-cover.jpg?v=1754424766","options":["Title"],"media":[{"alt":null,"id":36245355004141,"position":1,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":1.237,"height":485,"width":600,"src":"\/\/charlesbridgemoves.com\/cdn\/shop\/files\/ways-papi-says-i-love-you-cover.jpg?v=1754424766"},"aspect_ratio":1.237,"height":485,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/charlesbridgemoves.com\/cdn\/shop\/files\/ways-papi-says-i-love-you-cover.jpg?v=1754424766","width":600},{"alt":null,"id":36245355036909,"position":2,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":1.24,"height":484,"width":600,"src":"\/\/charlesbridgemoves.com\/cdn\/shop\/files\/las-maneras-en-que-papi-dice-te-quiero-cover.jpg?v=1754424766"},"aspect_ratio":1.24,"height":484,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/charlesbridgemoves.com\/cdn\/shop\/files\/las-maneras-en-que-papi-dice-te-quiero-cover.jpg?v=1754424766","width":600}],"requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_groups":[],"content":"\u003ch6\u003eComing March 24, 2026. Pre-order today!\u003c\/h6\u003e\n\u003c!-- - - - - - - - ENTER AUTHOR\/ILLUSTRATOR INFO BELOW - - - - - - - --\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBy: \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/delia-ruiz\"\u003eDelia Ruiz\u003c\/a\u003e \/ Illustrated by: \n\u003ca href=\"\/pages\/carlos-velez-aguilera\"\u003eCarlos Vélez Aguilera\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c!-- - - - - - - - ENTER HEADING BELOW - - - - - - - --\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\u003cb data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eHow many ways can Papi say \u003ci\u003eI love you\u003c\/i\u003e without saying the words?\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003c!-- - - - - - - - ENTER DESCRIPTION BELOW - - - - - - - --\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhen Papi, who is always busy working at el rancho, asks Maricruz to jump in the truck with him to go get groceries for Mami, she grabs the list and sprints! During the drive, they wave to the people in their community and enjoy each other's company. But when they make a turn down a particularly bumpy road, they lose their grocery list. Fortunately, an unexpected friend shows up to save the day!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eInspired by the author’s own truck rides with her father through a ranch in Mexico, \u003ci\u003eWays Papi Says I Love You\u003c\/i\u003e connects the love languages between a father and daughter and shows the many ways love can be expressed and received.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c!-- - - - - - - - - - - - ENTER RECOMMENDATIONS BELOW - - - - - - - -- - - --\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"recommended-books\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIf you like this book, you’ll enjoy these: \u003cbr\u003e\u003ca href=\"\/products\/giddy-up-unicorn\"\u003eGiddy Up, Unicorn!\u003c\/a\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003ca href=\"\/products\/abuelita-and-i-make-flan\"\u003eAbuelita and I Make Flan\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c!-- - - - - - - - - - - - START OF TABS - - - - - - - -- - - --\u003e [TABS]\n\u003ch5\u003eLook Inside\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0750\/0101\/files\/ways-papi-says-i-love-you-spread.jpg?v=1753300531\" style=\"display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;\" class=\"cvr-border-gray\"\u003e\u003c!-- Please call pinit.js only once per page --\u003e \u003cscript type=\"text\/javascript\" async=\"\" defer data-pin-shape=\"round\" data-pin-height=\"32\" data-pin-hover=\"true\" src=\"\/\/assets.pinterest.com\/js\/pinit.js\"\u003e\u003c\/script\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c!-- - - - - - - - - - - ENTER DOWNLOADABLES BELOW - - - - - - - - - - --\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eDownloadables\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"medium-cover\"\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0750\/0101\/files\/ways-papi-says-i-love-you-cover.jpg?v=1753300530\" alt=\"\"\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"btn-wrapper\"\u003e\u003ca class=\"product-btn\" href=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0750\/0101\/files\/ways-papi-says-i-love-you-cover-hires.tif.zip?v=1754423466\"\u003eDownload the Cover\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c!-- - - - - - - - - - - - ENTER AUTHOR BIO BELOW - - - - - - - - - --\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAuthor \u0026amp; Illustrator\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDelia Ruiz, author\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDelia Ruiz is the author of several children's books, including the ¡123 Baila! board book series and \u003ci\u003eRoqui’s Pandero Beat\u003c\/i\u003e, an International Latino Book award-winner. Delia enjoys creating teacher materials and is also a books reviewer on social media, where she showcases diverse books. She currently resides in Los Angeles with her husband, baby boy, and pug. Delia hopes to inspire the next generation of writers who also come from immigrant households.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"\/pages\/delia-ruiz\"\u003eRead more \u003c\/a\u003eabout Delia.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c!-- - - - - - - ENTER ILLUSTRATOR BIO BELOW - - - - - - - - - - - --\u003e \u003cbr\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCarlos Vélez Aguilera, illustrator\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCarlos Vélez Aguilera is an award-winning illustrator from Mexico City, Mexico, who has a degree from the National University Autonomous of Mexico. He has illustrated more than twenty children's books, including \u003ci\u003eLa Mala Suerte Is Following Me\u003c\/i\u003e, and he’s the author\/illustrator of \u003ci\u003eSalón Destino\u003c\/i\u003e. Carlos has been recognized with two illustration awards from the International Children's and Youth Book Fair in Mexico. https:\/\/yeonagency.com\/carlos-velez-aguilera\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"\/pages\/carlos-velez-aguilera\"\u003eRead more\u003c\/a\u003e about Carlos.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c!-- - - - - - - - - ENTER AWARDS \u0026 HONORS BELOW - - - - - - - - --\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAwards \u0026amp; Honors\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eComing soon!\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c!-- - - - - - - - - - ENTER REVIEWS BELOW - - - - - - - - - --\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eEditorial Reviews\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cblockquote\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ci\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0750\/0101\/files\/star-fade.gif?4673889858015672850\"\u003e \u003cstrong\u003eSchool Library Journal\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/i\u003e, starred review\u003c\/p\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eA perfect bilingual story, in Spanish and English editions, that celebrates the many ways love can be shown without using words. The story follows Maricruz and her papi on a trip to the store in their truck, but through each small moment, readers see the quiet and powerful ways that Papi says “I love you.” Aguilera’s emotive and painterly illustrations are full of color and movement, reflecting the warmth of the Mexican setting through its architecture, markets, and everyday life. The subtlety of exploring the different love languages through touch, acts of service, and words of affirmation combine to remind readers that love isn’t always demonstrated with spoken words but can be presented through the ­smallest actions. A helpful vocabulary page at the end reinforces the bilingual learning. Maricruz and her family have brown skin. VERDICT These heartfelt, inclusive, and visually rich works should be added to all libraries and would make great read-alouds at home or during a story time.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/blockquote\u003e\n\u003cblockquote\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003ci\u003eKirkus Reviews\u003c\/i\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eMaricruz’s papi works long hours during the week.\u003cbr\u003e\nOn weekends, however, he’s home and ready for their special outings in his trusty pickup truck. Maricruz takes charge of the grocery list as they head to the store, and Papi makes sure her seatbelt is fastened, just one of the many small ways he shows his love. Maricruz treasures their time together: visiting her tía’s house, cruising around the courtyard plaza, and driving through a muddy arroyo. Throughout the day, Papi quietly demonstrates his affection through gentle words and thoughtful behaviors. Though he never says “I love you,” his care is unmistakable. Centering Maricruz’s perspective, this is a heartfelt reflection on how love can be shown through actions rather than words. It’s a warm reminder of the value of quality time with a parent. Aguilera’s vibrant, richly colored illustrations bring the day to life, capturing both the beauty of the landscape and the warmth of their father\/daughter bond. Ruiz’s author’s note at the end introduces the concept of love languages and explores the different ways people show they care about those they love. Maricruz and her papi are Latine, with brown skin and hair; Spanish vocabulary is woven naturally throughout the text.\u003cbr\u003e\nA tender celebration of love expressed through everyday moments. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/blockquote\u003e\n\u003c!-- - - - - - - - - - - - ENTER DETAILS BELOW - - - - - - - - - - - --\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eDetails\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEnglish Hardcover\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eISBN: 978-1-62354-630-4\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSpanish Hardcover\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eISBN: 978-1-62354-631-1\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAges: 3–7\u003cbr\u003ePage count: 32\u003cbr\u003e10 x 8\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003ePublication date: March 24, 2026\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n[\/TABS]"}

Ways Papi Says I Love You

Coming March 24, 2026. Pre-order today!

By: Delia Ruiz / Illustrated by: Carlos Vélez Aguilera

How many ways can Papi say I love you without saying the words?

When Papi, who is always busy working at el rancho, asks Maricruz to jump in the truck with him to go get groceries for Mami, she grabs the list and sprints! During the drive, they wave to the people in their community and enjoy each other's company. But when they make a turn down a particularly bumpy road, they lose their grocery list. Fortunately, an unexpected friend shows up to save the day!

Inspired by the author’s own truck rides with her father through a ranch in Mexico, Ways Papi Says I Love You connects the love languages between a father and daughter and shows the many ways love can be expressed and received.

Maximum quantity available reached.

Delia Ruiz, author

Delia Ruiz is the author of several children's books, including the ¡123 Baila! board book series and Roqui’s Pandero Beat, an International Latino Book award-winner. Delia enjoys creating teacher materials and is also a books reviewer on social media, where she showcases diverse books. She currently resides in Los Angeles with her husband, baby boy, and pug. Delia hopes to inspire the next generation of writers who also come from immigrant households.

Read more about Delia.


Carlos Vélez Aguilera, illustrator

Carlos Vélez Aguilera is an award-winning illustrator from Mexico City, Mexico, who has a degree from the National University Autonomous of Mexico. He has illustrated more than twenty children's books, including La Mala Suerte Is Following Me, and he’s the author/illustrator of Salón Destino. Carlos has been recognized with two illustration awards from the International Children's and Youth Book Fair in Mexico. https://yeonagency.com/carlos-velez-aguilera

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School Library Journal, starred review

A perfect bilingual story, in Spanish and English editions, that celebrates the many ways love can be shown without using words. The story follows Maricruz and her papi on a trip to the store in their truck, but through each small moment, readers see the quiet and powerful ways that Papi says “I love you.” Aguilera’s emotive and painterly illustrations are full of color and movement, reflecting the warmth of the Mexican setting through its architecture, markets, and everyday life. The subtlety of exploring the different love languages through touch, acts of service, and words of affirmation combine to remind readers that love isn’t always demonstrated with spoken words but can be presented through the ­smallest actions. A helpful vocabulary page at the end reinforces the bilingual learning. Maricruz and her family have brown skin. VERDICT These heartfelt, inclusive, and visually rich works should be added to all libraries and would make great read-alouds at home or during a story time.

Kirkus Reviews

Maricruz’s papi works long hours during the week.
On weekends, however, he’s home and ready for their special outings in his trusty pickup truck. Maricruz takes charge of the grocery list as they head to the store, and Papi makes sure her seatbelt is fastened, just one of the many small ways he shows his love. Maricruz treasures their time together: visiting her tía’s house, cruising around the courtyard plaza, and driving through a muddy arroyo. Throughout the day, Papi quietly demonstrates his affection through gentle words and thoughtful behaviors. Though he never says “I love you,” his care is unmistakable. Centering Maricruz’s perspective, this is a heartfelt reflection on how love can be shown through actions rather than words. It’s a warm reminder of the value of quality time with a parent. Aguilera’s vibrant, richly colored illustrations bring the day to life, capturing both the beauty of the landscape and the warmth of their father/daughter bond. Ruiz’s author’s note at the end introduces the concept of love languages and explores the different ways people show they care about those they love. Maricruz and her papi are Latine, with brown skin and hair; Spanish vocabulary is woven naturally throughout the text.
A tender celebration of love expressed through everyday moments.

English Hardcover
ISBN: 978-1-62354-630-4

Spanish Hardcover
ISBN: 978-1-62354-631-1

Ages: 3–7
Page count: 32
10 x 8

Publication date: March 24, 2026