Chocolate Milk, Por Favor

by Maria Dismondy

Illustrated by: Donna Farrell

Chocolate Milk, Por Favor is the story of Gabe and Johnny, and how their differences initially separate them, but end up bringing them together. Gabe is a new student at Johnny's school, and Gabe doesn't speak any English. When Johnny first meets Gabe, he doesn't like him. He also doesn't understand why his classmates like him, after all, how good of a friend can Gabe be if he can't even talk to the other kids? One day, Gabe teaches Johnny how to do something new, and Johnny understands how it must feel for Gabe to be learning to speak English. In this simple exchange, Johnny learns what it really means to be a friend. 

Students of all ages can identify with the plot of this book. Almost every child has had an experience with not understanding another kid, or not being able to get along with someone else. This book teaches children a valuable lesson in how to be a friend to someone. 

I would recommend this book to teachers and students at the elementary level. This book could be used when teaching about friendship, diversity, or empathy. This book is a simple depiction of how to treat others with respect, even when it may be difficult. 

Check out the author, Maria Dismondy, reading Chocolate Milk, Por Favor: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y-5bAV8tj2k