The sun is not yet up when a young boy is awakened by his dad to go on their weekly journey across the border between the United States and Mexico. On their way out of town, they pass stores with signs in Spanish, similar to what they’ll see on the other side. The boy describes the journey over the bridge, through border patrol, and into Mexico, where they stop at the first town. They grab breakfast before going to visit the jewelry store owned by the boy’s aunt and uncle, then head out to buy the things on the list his mom has sent with them: honey, avocados, Mexican cokes, and prescription drugs. They also buy things for some friends: t-shirts, chanclas, bottled water, and sweets. On their return trip they stop on the bridge to visit these friends, who have been waiting months between borders, trying to enter the United States. The father assures his son that one day their friends will be able to cross the border, and when they do, they’ll be welcomed in the boy’s town. Warm, richly detailed watercolor illustrations show the irony of creating a barrier between two towns that are essentially the same, as well as contrasting the lives of people living in the border towns with the refugees who are caught between them. (Ages 5-8)

A picture book debut by an award-winning author about a boy's life on the U.S.-Mexico border, visiting his favorite places on The Other Side with his father, spending time with family and friends, and sharing in the responsibility of community care.

Early one Saturday morning, a boy prepares for a trip to The Other Side/El Otro Lado. It's close--just down the street from his school--and it's a twin of where he lives. To get there, his father drives their truck along the Rio Grande and over a bridge, where they're greeted by a giant statue of an eagle. Their outings always include a meal at their favorite restaurant, a visit with Tío Mateo at his jewelry store, a cold treat from the paletero, and a pharmacy pickup. On their final and most important stop, they check in with friends seeking asylum and drop off much-needed supplies.

My Two Border Towns by David Bowles, with stunning watercolor illustrations by Erika Meza, is the loving story of a father and son's weekend ritual, a demonstration of community care, and a tribute to the fluidity, complexity, and vibrancy of life on the U.S.-Mexico border.

Available in English and Spanish.