The Perfect Place

Bibliography:

de la Peña, M., & Escobar, P. (2024). The perfect place. G.P. Putnam’s Sons. 

Plot Summary:

When Lucas is at school, he seems like the perfect kid that makes perfect grades except for his life at home. Lucas is woken up in the night by a strange light that leads him to where the perfect people live. The longer that he stays where the perfect people live, the more he begins to wonder what it means to be perfect. 

Critical Analysis:

Matt de la Pena tells a story on the meaning of perfection. Readers will relate to Lucas especially if they are children with an aspect of their life that they wish they could change. The story is a quick read with a deep meaning. At the end of the story, you are left with a feeling of being grateful for the people and things that you have in your life. De la Pena only gives small hints of Lucas’ hispanic/latino culture in the story for example when his grandpa calls him “mijo.” Paola Escobar’s detailed illustrations provide the reader with more insight into the hispanic/latino culture when you see the darker skin color of Lucas and his family. Although the story and illustrations are beautiful and meaningful, I feel like the hispanic/latino culture could be displayed more within.

Review Excerpts:

“Teaches young readers to be grateful about their individual upbringings and proud of their roots… Gorgeous watercolor vignettes and bright action scenes accompany this heartwarming, uplifting narrative about valuing uniqueness and imperfection over flawless idealism.” - Booklist

“Charming… A gentle reminder of the genuine beauty found in life’s wonderfully imperfect moments.” - Kirkus Reviews

Connections:

Read other books by Matt de la Pena such as Love and Last Stop on Market Street