“Where the big velvet roses bloom / red and pink and fuschia, / where the accordion plays sassy and sweet… THAT’s my barrio. ” A young Latina girl goes on to describe the tinkly arrival of the paleta wagon in her neighborhood. The ice-cold popsicle comes in a rainbow of colors and flavors that makes for tough decisions (“Strawberry? Or coconut?”) and many opportunities. With a paleta you “paint your tongue purple and green” or cool off on a hot day. A paleta can be an offering of friendship or a teasing way to win a baseball game. Carmen Tafolla’s delectable story appeals to the senses with its rich imagery and crisp language. Sun-warmed, richly colored illustrations by Magaly Morales further bring the little girl’s vibrant Latino community to life. Winner, 2010 Charlotte Zolotow Award (Ages 3–6)